Founded in 2001 by Ellen and Jerry Gallagher, the Gallagher Foundation provides scholarships to university students in three countries: South Africa, Mexico, and Turkey. The first scholarships were awarded in 2002 in South Africa, followed by Mexico in 2004 and Turkey in 2005.
The foundation’s mission is to support young leaders in their studies, believing that these individuals will positively impact their developing countries by promoting peace and prosperity.
Scholarships are available for students to study at the University of Cape Town in South Africa, ITESM Monterrey Campus in Mexico, and Boğaziçi University in Turkey.
About the Gallagher Foundation Scholarship Programme – Fields Covered
The Gallagher Foundation is inviting students to apply for their scholarship programme for the 2025 academic year. Scholarships are awarded for undergraduate studies at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in ANY field (4-year degree or 6-year medical degree program).
(The Gallagher Foundation Scholarship is also available for studies in Mexico at ITESM – Monterrey Campus, and in Turkey at Boğaziçi University.)
About the Gallagher Foundation Scholarship Programme – Expenses Covered
This full scholarship covers:
- Tuition fees
- Books
- Study supplies
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Transport
- Living allowance
Eligibility Requirements for the Gallagher Foundation Scholarship
To apply, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have a strong academic record
- Be admitted to study at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 2025, with final acceptance received
- Be admitted into a 4-year (or 6-year medical) program
- Be entering your first year of study in 2024
- Have achieved a minimum overall average of 60%
- Have achieved high results in all competency areas of the National Benchmark Test
- Come from a financially disadvantaged background and have proof of financial need
- Have high ethical values, including a belief that progress can be achieved without violence, a commitment to making a difference in your country, and traits aligning with the Gallagher Foundation Traits of Distinguished Leaders
- Demonstrate strong leadership potential through special projects, awards, extracurricular activities, or service work
- Meet the financial criteria and have applied for a NSFAS Bursary or NSFAS Student Loan
- NOT be receiving any other scholarship funding (except for merit-based awards)
How to Apply for the Gallagher Foundation Scholarship
Submit your application online at: https://gallagherfoundation.tfaforms.net/16
Enter “hbursaries.com” when asked how you heard about the Gallagher Foundation Scholarship.
Submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation with your completed online application:
- High School results
- Final Acceptance to study at UCT
- National Benchmark test scores
- Recommendation letter from someone who can speak to your character, academic accomplishments, community service involvement, and extracurricular activities (e.g., teacher, mentor, guidance counselor, athletic coach, or employer – NOT a family member)
- Parents’ or guardians’ proof of income (latest payslips, letter from employer, affidavit if unemployed, pension documents)
- Four short essays on the following topics:
- Describe a time you failed in some way and what you learned from it.
- What would you like to see happen in your country in the next 50 years and how do you see yourself participating?
- Where have you seen leadership demonstrated and what made that person stand out as a leader to you?
- What are some of the biggest challenges you face? How are you working to meet those challenges?
Important Dates for the Gallagher Foundation Scholarship
- Applications open: 1 November 2024
- Applications close: 31 January 2025
- Notification of status: 10 March 2025
- Final interviews: 14-16 March 2025
- Final selection notification: 19 March 2025
Closing Date
31 January 2025 (at 11:59 pm) – make sure to apply before this date to be considered.
Contact the Scholarship Provider
For any queries, contact the Gallagher Foundation directly:
- Email: info@gallagherfoundation.org
Applicants are encouraged to read the FAQ’s before making any enquiries: https://gallagherfoundation.org/faq