The University of the Free State (UFS), in collaboration with Media24, invites students to apply for the Matriculant of the Year Bursary competition for the 2025 academic year. This prestigious competition, running for over 40 years, is designed for top-achieving Matric students who excel in academics, sports, culture, or leadership and wish to study at UFS in 2025.
About the Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition
The selection process consists of several stages:
- Semi-finalists Selection: Judges will select 25 semi-finalists based on the information provided in the application forms.
- Finalists Selection: From the semi-finalists, 14 finalists will be chosen and interviewed by a panel of judges in September 2024.
- Winner Announcement: The Matriculant of the Year will be selected based on personal achievements and spirited personality. The winner will be announced at a prestigious gala dinner.
Eligibility Requirements for the Bursary Competition
To be eligible for the Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Currently in Matric in 2024
- A top-achieving student
- Planning to study full-time at the University of the Free State in 2025
- Excellent results or demonstrated potential in academics, sports, culture, or leadership
- Attending a Quintile 1 to 5 school, a private school, or being home-schooled
- Agree to the terms and conditions on the application form
How to Apply for the Bursary Competition
To apply for the Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition, follow these steps:
- Download and Complete the Application Form: Download the Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition Entry Form for 2025 (.pdf).
- Submit Supporting Documents: Prepare the following documents:
- A photograph of yourself in school uniform (postcard size)
- Certified copy of Grade 11 final results
- Certified copies of Matric March and June results
- Application form signed by your school principal and stamped by the school
Submission Methods
- Email: Send your application to greylinl@ufs.ac.za. Include “Matriculant of the Year Competition” in the email subject line.
- Hand Delivery: Deliver your application to UFS Student Recruitment, Wekkie Saayman Building, c/o Rector and Granduandi Avenue, UFS Campus, Bloemfontein (Attention: Linda Greyling).
About the UFS & Media24
The University of the Free State (UFS) has a rich history, dating back to its founding in 1904 as “Grey College School” with only six students. Over the years, it underwent several transformations, becoming the “University of the Orange Free State” in 1950 and finally the “University of the Free State” in 2001. Today, UFS is a renowned institution offering a wide range of faculties, including:
- Business School
- Economic and Management Sciences
- Law
- The Humanities
- Education
- Health Sciences
- Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Theology and Religion
- Open Distance Learning
Media24, a division of the media giant Naspers, is South Africa’s leading media company. Media24’s interests span digital media and services, ecommerce, magazines, newspapers, book publishing, print, and distribution
Contact the Bursary Competition Provider
For any queries related to the bursary programme, you can contact the UFS directly:
- Contact Person: Linda Greyling
- Email: greylinl@ufs.ac.za
- Tel: 051 401 3384
The UFS & Media24 Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition is a fantastic opportunity for South Africa’s brightest Matric students to showcase their talents and gain recognition for their hard work. This competition not only rewards academic excellence but also celebrates achievements in sports, culture, and leadership. By participating, students stand a chance to win bursaries and other exciting prizes that can pave the way for a successful future at the University of the Free State.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss out on this opportunity to join the ranks of South Africa’s top-performing students. Prepare your application carefully, gather all necessary documents, and submit your application before the closing date. The journey to becoming the Matriculant of the Year can be a transformative experience, offering unparalleled support and opportunities as you embark on your academic journey at UFS.
Remember, the deadline for applications is 2 August 2024. Good luck to all applicants, and we look forward to seeing the next Matriculant of the Year shine!