The University of the Free State (UFS) has long been a beacon of academic excellence in South Africa, dating back to its establishment in 1904. As one of the prominent educational institutions in the country, UFS continues to foster talent and innovation, helping students from diverse backgrounds access higher education. In line with this, UFS is offering the Star of Stars Bursary Competition for the 2026 academic year, designed to reward and empower students from the Free State province.
This bursary program offers not only financial support but also leadership development, mentorship, and the opportunity to be part of a prestigious group of students committed to excelling in their academic and professional futures.
About UFS and Its Commitment to Education
The University of the Free State is known for its diverse academic offerings across 9 faculties, including faculties in Health Sciences, Humanities, Law, Natural & Agricultural Sciences, and more. It has three campuses: South Campus, Bloemfontein Campus, and Qwaqwa Campus. This rich academic diversity makes UFS an ideal institution for students to pursue their dreams in various fields of study, ranging from business to science and humanities. The Star of Stars Bursary Competition is part of UFS’s ongoing effort to create opportunities for talented students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.
The Star of Stars Bursary Competition: An Overview
The Star of Stars Bursary Competition is an initiative aimed at students who excel academically, demonstrate leadership qualities, and actively contribute to their communities. This bursary is open to students residing in the Free State province who are currently in Matric in the 2025 academic year. The competition is a chance for these students to earn a bursary that will cover their studies at UFS in 2026. Notably, this bursary is available to students pursuing any field of study at the university.
To be eligible, students must meet certain requirements, including having a strong academic record, a history of leadership and community involvement, and a desire to study at UFS in 2026. The competition evaluates students based on three categories: academic performance, leadership achievements, and community involvement. It is a great opportunity for students who wish to receive recognition for their hard work and dedication, and for those who aspire to make a difference in their communities.
How the Selection Process Works
The selection process for the Star of Stars Bursary Competition is highly competitive, with only the top 20 finalists being selected. These finalists will be announced by 30 September 2025 and will receive their prizes at their respective schools. To qualify, students must achieve a minimum of 35 points on their APS (Admission Points Score) based on their Grade 12 final exam results.
Once the finalists are selected, they will undergo an induction process that includes attending an induction camp at a private game reserve. During this camp, the finalists will receive personal development support, academic guidance, and mentorship. This process ensures that the selected students are not only prepared for university life but are also equipped with the skills needed to thrive in their careers and beyond.
The top 10 winners of the competition will be announced shortly after the release of the 2025 Grade 12 final exam results. These winners will receive not only prize money but also continuous mentorship throughout their university journey. The bursary funds will be made available in 2026 after the student has registered at UFS, providing them with the necessary financial support to pursue their studies.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Before applying for the Star of Stars Bursary Competition, it is important to ensure that all eligibility requirements are met. The following are the minimum criteria for applicants:
- Matric Status: Applicants must be in their final year of high school (Matric) in 2025.
- Residency: Applicants must reside in one of the five districts in the Free State province: Fezile Dabi, Lejweleputswa, Motheo, Thabo Mofutsanyana, or Xhariep.
- School Type: Applicants must be attending a Quintile 1, 2, or 3 school in the Free State. These are schools that are designated no-fee schools, often located in townships or rural areas.
- Academic Record: A strong academic record is essential, with students required to demonstrate their academic achievements through official documents.
- Application to UFS: Students must have applied to study at UFS for the 2026 academic year before the competition’s closing date.
- Motivational Letter: A motivational letter of approximately 500 words explaining why the student deserves to be chosen for the bursary is required.
- Document Submission: Applicants must submit certified copies of their ID document, Grade 11 final results, Matric March and June results, and certificates of achievements in Grade 11 and Matric.
How to Apply for the Bursary
To apply for the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition, students must download the official application form and complete it carefully. Along with the completed application form, students must submit clear copies of all required documentation, including:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Certified copy of Grade 11 final results
- Certified copy of Matric March and June results
- Motivational letter
- Letters or certificates of achievements (if applicable)
Once the documents are gathered, students can submit their applications in one of two ways:
- By Post:
Star of Stars
Attention: Director
Student Recruitment Services
PO Box 339
Bloemfontein
9300 - Hand Delivery:
Student Recruitment Services
Wekkie Saayman Building
c/o Rector and Graduandi Avenue
UFS Campus
Bloemfontein
The application deadline is 31 August 2025. Late applications will not be considered, so students are advised to apply well before the deadline.
Contact Information
For further queries or assistance with the application process, students can contact the University of the Free State directly:
- Contact Person: Teli Mothabeng
- Email: mothabengti@ufs.ac.za / info@ufs.ac.za
- Telephone: 051 501 3757 / 051 401 3000
Check also: SANS Killie Campbell Bursary South Africa 2025 – 2026
The UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition is a valuable opportunity for students from the Free State province to gain financial support, academic guidance, and mentorship for their university journey. With a strong focus on leadership, academic excellence, and community involvement, this bursary will help shape the future leaders of South Africa.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss the chance to apply for this prestigious bursary and secure your place at the University of the Free State in 2026.
