The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries offer talented South African learners financial support and entrepreneurial development opportunities. The bursary forms part of the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship Programme for the 2027 academic year.
- Overview of the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries
- Fields of Study Supported by the Fellowship
- What the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursary Covers
- Additional Benefits of the Fellowship Programme
- Eligibility Requirements
- How to Apply for Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries 2027
- Required Documents
- Important Deadline
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The programme supports students who show strong academic ability and an entrepreneurial mindset. Besides funding university studies, the fellowship helps scholars develop leadership and business skills.
Applications for the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries 2027 close on 30 April 2026. Therefore, eligible matric learners should prepare their applications early.
Overview of the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation runs a fellowship programme designed to nurture future entrepreneurs. The programme focuses on developing individuals who want to create businesses and drive economic growth in South Africa.
Successful applicants receive financial support for their undergraduate degree. In addition, fellows gain access to mentorship, entrepreneurial training, and networking opportunities.
Through the programme, students become part of a community of ambitious young leaders who aim to make a positive impact.
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Fields of Study Supported by the Fellowship
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries fund undergraduate degrees in several fields. However, students must study at selected partner universities.
Supported fields include:
- Commerce
- Engineering
- Humanities
- Law
- Science
- Arts
- Health Science (excluding Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science)
Students must pursue these degrees at one of the foundation’s partner universities.
Partner Universities
Applicants must plan to study at one of the following institutions:
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Cape Town
- Nelson Mandela University
- Rhodes University
- University of the Western Cape
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Free State
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- TSIBA Business School
These universities collaborate with the foundation to support student fellows academically and professionally.
What the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursary Covers
The value of the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries depends on the applicant’s household income. The programme provides different levels of support to ensure fair access to higher education.
Full Funding (Household income below R1 million)
Students from households earning less than R1 million per year receive comprehensive support, including:
- Tuition fees
- University accommodation and meals
- Book allowance
- Monthly stipend
- Tutoring support
- Counselling services through ICAS
Partial Funding (Household income R1 million – R1.5 million)
Students within this income bracket receive funding for:
- Tuition fees
- University accommodation and meals
- Tutoring sessions
- Counselling services
Tuition Support (Household income above R1.5 million)
Students from higher-income households receive support for:
- Tuition fees
- Tutoring sessions
- Counselling services
This funding structure ensures talented learners receive support regardless of their financial background.
Additional Benefits of the Fellowship Programme
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries go beyond financial support. Fellows also receive valuable entrepreneurial development opportunities.
Key benefits include:
- Personal mentorship from foundation staff
- Guidance from experienced business mentors
- Access to an online entrepreneurial curriculum
- Attendance at annual entrepreneurship conferences
- Workshops and seminars focused on business development
Furthermore, fellows join a community of aspiring entrepreneurs. This network encourages collaboration, idea sharing, and innovation.
Students can also explore funding opportunities through E Squared, a partner organisation that supports new business ventures.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet several requirements before applying for the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries 2027.
Basic Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be 21 years old or younger in 2026
- Be currently in Matric in 2026
- Intend to study for an undergraduate degree in 2027
Academic Requirements
Applicants must also meet the following academic standards:
- Minimum 60% for Mathematics or 80% for Mathematical Literacy in Grade 11
- Minimum 70% overall average in Grade 11 (excluding Life Orientation)
Personal Qualities
In addition, successful candidates should:
- Show strong entrepreneurial potential
- Demonstrate leadership and initiative
- Believe in the future of South Africa
These qualities help the foundation identify individuals who can create a lasting impact.
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How to Apply for Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries 2027
Students can apply online or submit a hard copy application.
Online Application (Preferred)
Applicants should apply through the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation online platform.
First, register an account on the GrayMatter portal, then complete the Fellowship application form.
Online applications help avoid delays and ensure faster processing.
Hard Copy Application
Applicants may also submit a printed application form.
Completed forms can be sent via:
Post:
Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
Freepost no: CB 11349
Kloof Street, 8008
Hand Delivery (Cape Town):
46 Hof Street, Oranjezicht, Cape Town, 8001
Hand Delivery (Johannesburg):
1st Floor, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr
1 Protea Place, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196
Required Documents
Applicants must include certified copies of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Grade 11 final academic record
- Latest Grade 12 results (if available)
Ensure all documents are clear and certified before submission.
Important Deadline
The closing date for the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries 2027 is:
30 April 2026
Late applications may not be considered. Therefore, applicants should prepare their documents and submit their forms early.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries?
South African matric learners in 2026 who meet the academic requirements and demonstrate entrepreneurial potential can apply.
Does the bursary cover all study expenses?
Yes, students from households earning below R1 million receive full funding. Other applicants receive partial support based on income.
Can students study any degree?
No. The bursary supports specific undergraduate fields such as commerce, engineering, law, science, and humanities.
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursaries 2027 provide more than financial assistance. The fellowship develops young leaders who want to shape South Africa’s future through entrepreneurship.
If you are a motivated matric learner with strong academic results, this programme could transform your career path.
Start preparing your application today and take the first step towards joining a community of future South African entrepreneurs.
