UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition 2027: Free State Matric Learners Opportunity

The University of the Free State (UFS) is inviting Matric learners from the Free State province to apply for the Star of Stars Bursary Competition for the 2027 academic year. This competition offers a chance to win prize money, receive personal development support, and gain academic advice and mentorship.

Application Closing Date: 31 August 2026
Location: Free State, South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Prize money awarded to winners
Minimum Qualification: Matric
Opportunity Type: Bursary Competition

About the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition

The UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition is designed to identify and support promising young individuals in the Free State who aspire to study at the University of the Free State. It is open to learners currently in Matric who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to community involvement. The competition aims to provide selected learners with financial assistance and guidance to help them transition successfully into university life.

Bursaries awarded through this competition can be used for studies in any field of study offered at the University of the Free State. Applicants must have already applied to study at UFS for the 2027 academic year to be eligible. The competition focuses on recognizing well-rounded individuals who are not only academically strong but also show potential to become future leaders and positive contributors to society.

About the University of the Free State

The University of the Free State (UFS) has a rich history, beginning in 1904 as a tertiary section of Grey College. It became an independent Afrikaans-language university in 1950, then known as the University of the Orange Free State. In 2001, its name was changed to the University of the Free State. Today, UFS operates across three campuses: the South Campus and Main Campus in Bloemfontein, and the Qwaqwa Campus. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications across its various faculties.

What the Competition Offers

Successful participants in the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition can expect to receive several benefits. Selected learners will be awarded prize money to support their studies. Beyond financial aid, the competition provides valuable personal development support and exposure. Finalists will receive academic advice and mentorship to help them prepare for university life. Winners will continue to receive ongoing mentorship throughout their university journey, aiding their academic and personal growth.

Selection Criteria

The selection process for the Star of Stars Bursary Competition is based on three key categories. Firstly, academic performance is a major consideration, with applicants expected to have a strong academic record. Secondly, leadership achievements are evaluated, looking for individuals who have demonstrated leadership potential in their schools or communities. Finally, community involvement is assessed, recognizing learners who are actively engaged in making a positive impact in their communities.

Selection Process

The selection process involves several stages. The Top 20 finalists will be announced by 30 September 2026. Prizes will be distributed to eligible candidates at their respective schools. To advance, the Top 20 finalists must achieve a minimum Academic Performance (AP) score of 35 in their final Matric results. The ultimate winners, known as the Top 10, will be announced after the Matric final examination results are released in January 2027. These Top 10 winners will then be treated to an all-expenses-paid trip in 2027 to a Star of Stars induction camp weekend held at a private game reserve. The Top 10 winners are required to attend this induction camp weekend in February or March 2027.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition, applicants must meet several criteria. They must currently be in Matric during the 2026 academic year and possess a strong academic record. Applicants must reside within the Free State province and attend a Quintile 1, 2, or 3 school, which includes Dinaledi schools, township schools, or rural schools. Furthermore, applicants must have applied to study at the University of the Free State for the 2027 academic year before the competition closing date. They should also be achievers in academics and leadership, and/or be involved in community projects, demonstrating a desire to inspire others. Finally, applicants must read and agree to the competition terms and conditions found on the application form.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit clear copies of the following supporting documents along with their completed application form:

• A certified copy of their South African ID document.
• A certified copy of their Grade 11 final results.
• A certified copy of their Matric March results.
• A certified copy of their Matric June results.
• Proof of Grade 11 and Matric achievements, such as letters, certificates, or other documentary evidence of provincial and national achievements.
• A motivational letter of approximately 500 words explaining why the learner deserves to be chosen for the bursary competition.

Applicants must clearly distinguish between their Grade 11 and Matric achievements when submitting proof of their accomplishments.

Important Application Note

The application form must be stamped and signed by the learner’s school principal. This official stamp and signature serve as confirmation that all information provided on the application form is accurate. Incomplete applications or those missing the required documents may be disqualified from the competition.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply for the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition 2027 by downloading and completing the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition Application Form 2026. Applications can be submitted via post or hand delivery.

Applications can be posted to:
Star of Stars Student Recruitment Services
PO Box 339
Bloemfontein
9300
Attention: Teli Mothabeng

Alternatively, applications can be delivered by hand to:
Student Recruitment Services
Wekkie Saayman Building
Corner of Rector and Graduandi Avenue
UFS Campus
Bloemfontein

Enquiries

For any questions regarding the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition, applicants may contact the University of the Free State directly.

Contact Person: Teli Mothabeng
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
Tel: 051 501 3757 / 051 401 3000

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and submit all necessary documents before the closing date. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Closing Date

The closing date for the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition South Africa 2027 is 31 August 2026. Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted. Learners are encouraged to apply well before the closing date to ensure their applications are considered.

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