The focus of the Abe Bailey Trust is leadership development, with the bursaries awarded to persons who are academically strong and have shown exceptional qualities of leadership and service. Applicants must further have demonstrated a good track record not only on campus but also in a wider social context and be able to function as part of a select and highly skilled group.
Please note, the criteria provided below is prescribed by the Abe Bailey Trust. The university is required to apply the criteria as is and may not deviate from the rules and guidelines provided by the Trust.
Who can apply?
- Full-time registered students of the NWU who are in their third year or higher.
- Junior lecturing staff of the NWU
- Applicants must be 25 years of age, or younger at the commencement of the tour (25 November 2026).
When will the tour take place?
25 November – 17 December 2026
Please note the following
- The tour is awarded and funded by the Abe Bailey Trust.
- Following an internal application and interview process, the NWU is required to put forward its top three candidates for the consideration of a panel appointed by the Abe Bailey Trust.
- This programme does not contribute or fund a student’s academic tuition, or similar fees.
- The Abe Bailey Trust is not bound to selecting a candidate from the NWU.
What do I need to apply?
You need to have the following documentation ready to submit your application:
- A personal letter of motivation as to why you are applying for this travel tour and whether you have previously travelled to the UK.
- A completed Personal Information Sheet (you will submit this as part of the online application form, see below button).
- A concise resume.
- Two recent letters of reference that address the suitability of the candidate to meet the objectives of this travel bursary.
- Copy of your university academic record (all years enrolled).
- Copies of university merit/achievement certificates (limited to five).
- Details of leadership roles in the community and at the university.
When do applications close?
Applications for the Abe Bailey Leadership Development Programme 2026 close on 08 May 2026.
No late applications will be considered.
Enquiries must be directed to: SL-Experience@nwu.ac.za
Please note:
- If you are invited for an interview as part of the university’s internal application process, you will be required to submit a copy of your ID and your valid passport.
- Your academic record will be accessed via the Student Information System and will be considered as part of the university’s internal application process.
- This programme does not contribute towards your tuition fees.