Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship
Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
Bursary Type
Full Bursary
Full bursary + leadership development
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is South Africa's most prestigious entrepreneurship-focused bursary, open to any field of study. No workback obligation.
What's covered
Full cost of study plus leadership development programme
Eligibility at a Glance
Fields of Study
Study Level
Available In
All Provinces (Nationwide)Quick Facts
About This Bursary
Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is arguably the most prestigious bursary programme in South Africa. Unlike most corporate bursaries, it:
Fellows become part of an elite alumni network of South Africa's future business leaders.
What Makes This Different
This is not a traditional bursary. Fellows are selected primarily for their entrepreneurial mindset, leadership potential, and desire to create economic value — not just academic achievement.
The Fellowship Programme Includes
Eligibility Requirements
- South African citizen
- Final-year matric or first/second year university student
- Studying ANY field at an accredited South African university
- Demonstrated entrepreneurial thinking and leadership
- Academic achievement (typically 70%+, but character trumps marks)
- No workback obligation
How to Apply
- 1Visit allangray.co.za/fellowship
- 2Complete the detailed online application (includes essays and references)
- 3Shortlisted candidates attend a regional information session
- 4Final selection via assessment and interview process
Required Documents
- SA ID
- Academic transcripts/matric results
- Two referee letters
- Personal essays (required by the application)
- Proof of enrollment
✅ Application readiness
5 required documents for this bursary
- Two referee letters
- Proof of enrollment
Tip: manage your full checklist on the bursary finder before applying to Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can arts students apply for the Allan Gray Fellowship?
Yes. The Allan Gray Fellowship is unique in being open to any field of study. The selection is based on entrepreneurial thinking and leadership potential, not your discipline.
Is there a workback obligation for the Allan Gray Fellowship?
No. The Allan Gray Fellowship has no workback obligation. After graduating, you are free to pursue any career path, including starting your own business.
How competitive is the Allan Gray Fellowship?
Extremely competitive. Thousands apply annually and only a small cohort (typically 30–50 fellows) are selected nationally. The selection process is rigorous.
This bursary is not open right now
Applications typically open again next year. Bookmark this page and check back, or visit the provider website for updates.
Visit Allan Gray Orbis Foundation WebsiteBursary Summary
Disclaimer: Information is for guidance only. Always verify deadlines, eligibility, and requirements on the official provider website. FundingPlug is not affiliated with any bursary provider.
Related Bursaries
Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary
Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
Sasol Bursary Programme
Sasol
Standard Bank Bursary Programme
Standard Bank