Closes
31 July 2026
Value
Full funding
Level
1st Year Undergraduate
For
SA citizens
Sector
All fields of study
Type
Full-cost bursary
About this bursary
The Gallagher Foundation Scholarship offers full financial support for first-year undergraduate students at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Established in 2001 by Ellen and Jerry Gallagher, the foundation aims to empower visionaries who will build peace and prosperity in South Africa.
This opportunity is open to matriculants and matric graduates entering a four-year undergraduate program or a six-year MBChB medical degree at UCT. Funding covers all major educational and living costs throughout the degree.
Candidates must demonstrate ethical leadership values, financial need, and strong academic performance. Selection includes an online application, essay evaluation, and interviews with the foundation.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must currently be in Matric or have already completed your Matric exams.
- You must intend to study at the University of Cape Town as a first-year student in 2027.
- You must be applying or accepted into a maximum four-year degree or six-year medical degree.
- You must come from a financially disadvantaged background with a maximum annual household income of R600 000.
- You must demonstrate strong academic achievement and high ethical standards.
- You must show clear leadership potential through extracurricular activities, community work, or awards.
You do not qualify if
- Students entering their second year or higher of university study.
- Applicants studying at any institution other than UCT.
- Applicants with a total annual household income over R600 000.
- Non-South African citizens.
Documents you need to submit
- Copy of high school results
- Recommendation letter from a non-family reference such as a teacher, mentor, or coach
- Proof of household income including payslips, employer letter, pension slips, or affidavit
- Four short essays written according to the specified prompt topics
- National Benchmark Test (NBT) results
- Proof of application or conditional acceptance to UCT
Make sure all uploaded documents are clear and legible.
How to apply
- 1Open the online Gallagher Foundation application portal.
- 2Fill in your personal profile, academic information, and family financial details.
- 3Draft and submit the four required essays addressing leadership and personal experiences.
- 4Attach clear copies of all compulsory supporting documents.
- 5Submit the completed form before the midnight deadline on 31 July 2026.
Applications open on 12 June 2026 and close on 31 July 2026.