The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation has officially opened applications for its prestigious High School Scholarship for the 2028 academic year. This fully funded scholarship targets talented South African learners currently in Grade 6 and entering Grade 8 in 2028.

The programme supports academically gifted learners who also demonstrate financial need and entrepreneurial potential. Moreover, it provides financial assistance and long-term personal development opportunities.

Application Deadline: 15 September 2026 at 17:00 SAST.

Late applications and incomplete submissions will not be considered.

Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet strict requirements before applying. Therefore, learners should review the criteria carefully.

Age Requirements

Applicants must be between 11 and 12 years old.
Learners must be born in 2014 or 2015.

Academic Requirements

Minimum overall average of 70%.
At least 70% in English.
At least 70% in Mathematics.
Consistent academic performance in both Grade 5 and Grade 6.

Citizenship Requirements

The learner must be a South African citizen.
At least one parent or guardian must hold South African citizenship.

Financial Requirements

Total household income must not exceed R20,000 per month.

What the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Scholarship Covers

The scholarship provides complete financial support. In addition, learners receive access to various development programmes.

Full Financial Coverage

Successful applicants will receive:

Full tuition fees.
Boarding fees where applicable.
School uniforms and casual clothing.
Personal toiletries.
Textbooks and stationery.
Funding for extracurricular activities.
Monthly pocket money allowance.

As a result, scholars can focus entirely on their education and personal growth.

Personal Development and Entrepreneurial Support

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation goes beyond financial assistance. Instead, it invests in future entrepreneurs and leaders.

Scholarship recipients gain access to:

Entrepreneurial workshops and seminars.
Leadership development programmes.
Annual entrepreneurial youth conferences.
Dedicated mentorship from Programme Officers.
Online learning resources.
A nationwide network of young achievers.

Furthermore, learners develop valuable skills that prepare them for future success.

Entrepreneurial Qualities the Foundation Looks For

The foundation seeks learners who demonstrate strong leadership abilities and entrepreneurial thinking.

Applicants should display:

Curiosity and creativity.
Problem-solving abilities.
Leadership potential.
Self-confidence.
Growth mindset.
Passion for making a positive impact.

Consequently, learners with these qualities have a stronger chance of progressing through the selection process.

How to Apply for the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation High School Scholarship 2028

Parents and guardians can submit applications either online or manually. However, duplicate applications are not permitted.

Option 1: Online Application Process

Step 1: Register an account on the official scholarship portal.

Step 2: Complete the learner’s personal information and household details.

Step 3: Upload all required documents and submit the application before the closing date.

Option 2: Manual Application Submission

Applicants may also download and complete the official application form. Thereafter, the documents can be delivered to one of the designated offices.

Cape Town Office
46 Hof Street
Oranjezicht
Cape Town
8001

Johannesburg Office
1st Floor, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr
1 Protea Place
Corner of Fredman Drive and Protea Place
Sandton
Johannesburg
2196

Download Application Form Here

Required Supporting Documents

Applicants must prepare certified copies of the following documents:

Learner’s unabridged birth certificate.
Parent or guardian identity documents.
Grade 5 Term 4 final report.
Grade 6 Term 2 report.
Proof of household income.

Income documents may include:

Latest payslips and three months of bank statements.
Tax statements and business bank statements.
Police affidavit for unemployed guardians.
Pension letters where applicable.

Incomplete documentation may lead to automatic disqualification.

Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Selection Process

The scholarship selection process takes place in several stages.

Stage 1: Foundation Examination

In December 2026, shortlisted learners will write assessments covering Grade 6 English and Mathematics.

Stage 2: Interviews

Between February and March 2027, successful candidates will attend interviews with the foundation panel.

Stage 3: School Placement Interviews

Selected learners will participate in final interviews at partner high schools. Thereafter, successful applicants will receive formal scholarship offers.

Why Learners Should Apply

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation High School Scholarship 2028 offers much more than financial support. It provides mentorship, leadership training, and entrepreneurial development opportunities that can transform a learner’s future.

Therefore, eligible Grade 6 learners with excellent academic records and strong leadership potential should apply before the closing date.

Application Deadline: 15 September 2026 at 17:00 SAST

Early preparation and complete documentation will significantly improve the chances of securing this life-changing scholarship opportunity.

Siphesihle Rose Dlamini

Siphesihle Rose Dlamini is the Founder and Lead Content Editor of AfterMatric24, a South Africa–based digital publication (aftermatric24.co.za) that covers education, bursaries, government programmes, and
career opportunities. He has extensive experience researching and verifying information from official institutions, universities, and public sector sources.

Allan Gray Orbis Foundation High School Scholarships 2028: Fully Funded Opportunity for Grade 6 Learners