Deadline: April 30, 2026
The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme 2026 is a prestigious undergraduate fellowship designed to support high-performing young people in South Africa who are transitioning from high school to university and show strong potential for entrepreneurial leadership. The programme combines comprehensive financial support with long-term entrepreneurial development, mentorship, and exposure to innovation-driven networks.
The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme 2026 focuses on developing individuals who are motivated to create positive social and economic impact within their communities and across the country.
About the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme 2026
The Allan Gray Fellowship Programme 2026 aims to identify and nurture future leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset. Fellows are supported throughout their undergraduate studies with structured learning, mentorship, and access to a strong community of peers and professionals. The programme is not only a funding opportunity but also a long-term personal and professional development journey.
Fellowship Benefits
Academic and Financial Support
Applicants whose combined household income is R1 million or less per year will receive full funding, which covers:
- University accommodation
- Meals
- Textbooks
- Tutoring allowance
- Monthly stipend
Applicants whose combined household income is above R1 million per year will receive needs-based funding.
Final funding decisions and funding structures are communicated to successful applicants after completion of the selection camp stage.
Entrepreneurial and Leadership Development
Fellows selected for the programme will benefit from:
- Personal mentorship from foundation staff
- Access to a dedicated business mentor
- Participation in an online entrepreneurial curriculum
- Annual entrepreneurship conferences, seminars, and workshops
- Inclusion in a community of like-minded, high-potential individuals
- Business incubation support
- Potential access to venture funding through e² (a sister entity), subject to business viability
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme, applicants must:
- Have achieved at least 60% in Pure Mathematics OR 80% in Mathematical Literacy in final Grade 11 results
- Have a minimum average of 70% in final Grade 11 results (excluding Life Orientation)
- Be currently in Grade 12 in the year of application
- Be under 21 years of age during the year of application
- Be a South African citizen
- Intend to study a degree in one of the following fields:
- Commerce
- Science
- Engineering
- Law
- Humanities
- Arts
- Health Sciences
- Plan to study at one of the approved universities, including:
WITS, UJ, UCT, NMU, Rhodes University, UWC, Stellenbosch University, University of Pretoria, University of the Free State, UKZN, or TSiBA
Application Process
The application process for the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme includes the following stages:
- Submission of the completed application form and required supporting documents (online or by post)
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews in July 2026
- Successful interview candidates will attend a selection camp in September 2026
Only applicants who successfully pass each stage will progress to the next phase of the selection process.
How to Apply
Apply for the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme 2026
Read More About the Allan Gray Fellowship Programme 2026
Need Support?
If you need support with proposal drafting, refining, or application review, contact us to help strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.
