The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation is once again calling on bright, driven young South Africans to apply for its prestigious Scholarship Programme for 2026. This isn’t just about covering school fees — it’s about investing in learners who show outstanding academic ability, a spark of entrepreneurial thinking, and real leadership potential.
If you’re a Grade 6 learner with big dreams and a hunger to make a difference, this could be the opportunity that changes your life.
More Than Just a Scholarship
The Allan Gray Scholarship Programme provides much more than financial support. It’s a long-term commitment to developing responsible, high-impact leaders — beginning in high school. The Foundation offers more than just a seat in a top South African partner school. It builds a path forward with mentorship, personal development, and early exposure to entrepreneurship.
From the moment a learner joins the programme, they begin a journey of growth, support, and empowerment that extends far beyond the classroom.
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is aimed at current Grade 6 learners who will be entering Grade 8 in 2026. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be in Grade 6 at the time of applying
- Be 11 or 12 years old in Grade 6 (born in 2013 or 2014)
- Show financial need
- Achieve at least 70% in both English and Mathematics
The Foundation is especially looking for learners who think differently — those who view challenges as opportunities and want to find new ways to uplift their communities.
What the Scholarship Includes
The Allan Gray Scholarship is one of the most comprehensive high school scholarships available in South Africa. It covers far more than tuition, offering full support throughout a learner’s high school career.
The scholarship includes:
- Full tuition and boarding
- Monthly allowance
- Toiletries, uniforms, and casual clothing
- Textbooks and stationery
- Extramural support
- Annual entrepreneurial conference
- Mentorship through a dedicated Programme Officer
- Access to an online learning platform
- Participation in workshops, seminars, and speaker sessions
- A supportive community that encourages growth, confidence, and leadership development
This isn’t simply a scholarship — it’s a platform for transformation, preparing scholars for the Allan Gray Fellowship and their journey into higher education and beyond.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2026 intake are expected to open in early 2025. Here’s what the process looks like:
- Submit your application form along with all required documents
- Write the Foundation’s English and Mathematics assessment for Grade 6 in December 2025
- Attend interviews if shortlisted, scheduled for early 2026
- Placement interviews at partner high schools
- Final selection of recommended candidates by the Foundation and schools
- Award and signing of the official Memorandum of Agreement by all parties in May 2026
Apply for the Allan Gray Scholarship 2026
Throughout this journey, parental support is essential. Having teachers, guardians, and families involved gives young learners the confidence and encouragement they need to step forward.
Why This Scholarship Matters
South Africa’s education system still faces deep inequalities — but opportunities like the Allan Gray Scholarship provide a way forward. This programme isn’t just about academic performance. It’s about creating a new generation of leaders who think critically, act boldly, and bring lasting change to their communities.
By investing in potential early, the Foundation helps ensure that brilliance is never wasted due to financial barriers. Instead, it’s nurtured, developed, and given the tools to thrive.
Closing date: 15 September 2025
Conclusion
The Allan Gray Scholarship Programme 2026 is more than an educational opportunity — it’s a life-changing journey. If you meet the criteria and have the drive to lead, innovate, and succeed, don’t miss your chance. Apply early, stay focused, and let your future begin now. South Africa needs bold thinkers — and this could be your first step toward becoming one.