The Responsibility Centre: Dean of Students (RC: DS) is excited to announce that applications are now open for the prestigious Abe Bailey Travel Bursary, which offers third-year students and above, as well as junior lecturers across South Africa the opportunity to visit the United Kingdom (UK) from 25 November to 17 December 2026.

The Abe Bailey Trust is passionate about empowering future leaders. Academically strong applicants who have demonstrated good leadership skills, have a heart for service, and the ability to make an impact on campus and beyond – and who are ready to contribute their skills, passion, and purpose to a dynamic, highly skilled group – are encouraged to apply.

If you are interested in applying and meet the criteria, please click on the links below to download the following documents:

• the 2026 Abe Bailey Overseas Travel Bursary poster,
• the Abe Bailey Travel Bursary notice with detailed information about the bursary, and
• the Abe Bailey Travel Bursary Personal Information sheet checklist.
   

PLEASE NOTE : You must be a South African citizen and have a valid South African passport to apply. 

Application Requirements

• Must be academically strong and on track to complete your degree in the minimum required years.
• Have exceptional leadership qualities.
• Must be in their third year of studies or further.
• Must be aged 25 or younger at the start of the tour.
• Must be sufficiently proficient in English to engage meaningfully with fellow tour members and other individuals you will meet overseas.
• Must be physically fit to participate in walking tours, and be able to participate in an intensive programme of activities.
• Must be available for the FULL duration of the tour.
• A personal motivation letter explaining why you are applying for this Travel Bursary and how you will meet its objectives.
• A current, concise CV, which must not repeat information already included on the Personal Information Sheet.
• Two recent reference letters that address your suitability to meet the bursary’s objectives.
• Copies of your ID and academic record.
• Copies of university merit/achievement certificates (limited to five).
• Summary of your leadership roles and social and community service at university and in your community.
• Brief breakdown of the dates and purpose of previous visits to the UK.
• Confirmation of VALID SA passport.

Deadline for applications: Wednesday, 06 May 2026 by 16:00. No applications, this includes applications with incomplete documents, received after the deadline has expired will be accepted. 

Once you have completed the Personal Information sheet and gathered all the relevant documents, please e-mail it to Dr Heidi October, Head: Frederik Van Zyl Slabbert Institute for Student Leadership Development and Deputy Director (Leadership) in the Centre for Student Life and Learning, at [email protected]. 

IMPORTANT: Please copy Ms Audrey Poole in ALL CORRESPONDENCE with Dr October at [email protected]. 

You can also visit the Abe Bailey Trust website at www.abebailey.org for more info.