African Leadership Academy Diploma Program (2027 Intake)
Two-year pre-university diploma in Johannesburg for young African leaders, with need-based financial aid.
Application status
Applications open
Regular Decision: 15 January 2027 (exact cut-off time not published; apply early)
About this opportunity
African Leadership Academy (ALA) is a two-year residential pre-university programme in Johannesburg, South Africa, for young Africans with leadership potential and strong academics. Its diploma focuses on entrepreneurial leadership, African studies and rigorous academics. Admission is holistic and looks at intellectual readiness, courage and perseverance, ownership and interdependence. The Early Decision deadline (15 October 2026) has passed; Regular Decision is open until 15 January 2027. Students arrive on campus in August 2027. Applications are accepted in English, French or Portuguese.
Who can apply
- Citizen of an African country
- Born on or after 1 September 2007 (required for the 2027–2028 school year)
- Strong academic ability and leadership potential
- Commitment to creating positive change in your community
- Willing to live and study in a Pan-African residential community
What you get
- Two-year pre-university diploma programme
- Financial aid awarded according to each family's financial need (reported: 97% of students receive some assistance)
- Entrepreneurial leadership training
- Pan-African community of young leaders