Imagine standing at the edge of a bright future, where top grades meet bold business ideas. The Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship 2027 stands out as one of South Africa’s best chances for matriculants with strong academics and entrepreneurial spark. This program offers full financial help and skills to build leaders who can grow economies in Southern Africa.
The fellowship matters because it turns young talent into creators of jobs and change. The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation started it to shape tomorrow’s entrepreneurs. This article covers the foundation’s story, who qualifies, what it pays for, extra perks, how to apply, and key dates.
About the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation began in 2005. Allan Gray created it to grow a new wave of entrepreneurs in Southern Africa. He wanted to make a lasting mark on the region.
The group gets money from Allan Gray Limited’s profits after taxes. It works in South Africa and three other countries:
- Namibia
- Swaziland
- Botswana
The Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship 2027 gives two main things. It pays for university and builds business skills.
Fields of Study Covered by the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship 2027
The fellowship supports undergraduate degrees in key areas. Students pick from these fields:
- Arts
- Commerce
- Engineering
- Health Science (but not Medicine, Dentistry, or Veterinary Science)
- Humanities
- Law
- Science
Applicants must plan to attend one of the partner universities. This setup fits students with clear goals.
Partner Universities
The program links with top schools across South Africa. Check if your choice is on this list:
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- Rhodes University (RU)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- TSIBA Business School
These spots help fellows thrive in strong learning spots.
What the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship 2027 Covers
Funding changes with family income. The table below shows what each level gets. It makes it simple to see the differences at a glance.
| Household Income Level | Coverage Details |
|---|---|
| Below R1 million | Tuition fees, university accommodation and meals, book allowance, general monthly allowance, tutoring sessions, counselling services (ICAS) |
| R1 million to R1.5 million | Tuition fees, university accommodation and meals, tutoring sessions, counselling services (ICAS) |
| Above R1.5 million | Tuition fees, tutoring sessions, counselling services (ICAS) |
This support eases money worries so students focus on studies and growth.
Additional Benefits of the Fellowship
The fellowship goes beyond cash. It builds real business know-how. Fellows get these extras:
- Personalised mentorship from staff and business pros
- Online lessons on starting ventures
- Spot at an yearly entrepreneurship conference
- Spots in seminars and workshops
- Join a group of young go-getters
- Help to launch business ideas
- Chance for funds from E Squared
These steps spark ideas and connect people for big wins.
Eligibility Requirements for the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship 2027
Not everyone fits. Check these rules with a quick scan:
- South African citizen
- No older than 21 years in 2026
- In Matric during 2026
- At least 60% for Mathematics or 80% for Mathematical Literacy in Grade 11 finals
- Minimum 70% overall average in Grade 11 (no Life Orientation)
- Plan an approved degree at a partner university in 2027
- Believe in South Africa’s future
- Show entrepreneurial flair and passion
Meet all to move ahead.
Selection Process
The steps follow a clear path. Here they are in order:
- Submit your application by 30 April 2026 at 17:00.
- If shortlisted, attend an interview on 31 July 2026.
- Join a Selection Camp in September 2026.
You hear back after each part. Stay ready for the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship 2027.
Required Documents
Gather these papers early. Upload clear, certified copies:
- South African ID
- Grade 11 final academic record (or latest Grade 12 if you have it)
Skip any, and you risk losing your spot.
How to Apply for the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship 2027
Start online for the fastest way. Or use paper if needed. Follow these steps:
- Register an account then log in.
- Fill out the application form.
- Submit by 30 April 2026 at 17:00. No late entries.
For paper, post to Freepost no: CB 11349, Kloof Street, 8008. Or hand-deliver to Cape Town (46 Hof Street, Oranjezicht, 8001) or Johannesburg (1st Floor, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, 1 Protea Place, Sandton, 2196). Note where you heard about it. Act before the deadline.