UFS Bursary – Star of Stars Competition South Africa For 2025. The University of the Free State (UFS) continues to uplift and empower South Africa’s youth through academic excellence, leadership cultivation, and community involvement. One of its flagship initiatives, the UFS Bursary – Star of Stars Competition, is a prestigious bursary opportunity for top-performing learners in the Free State province. For the 2026 academic year, this competition invites passionate, driven, and deserving Grade 12 learners in 2025 to compete for financial support and mentorship throughout their university journey.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Star of Stars Bursary Competition, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, benefits, deadlines, and frequently asked questions.
University of the Free State (UFS): A Legacy of Excellence
Established in 1904, UFS originally functioned as part of Grey College before becoming the University of the Orange Free State in 1950. In 2001, it adopted its current name and a more inclusive academic approach. Today, UFS is a recognized institution offering world-class education across three campuses:
| Campus Name | Location |
|---|---|
| Bloemfontein Main Campus | Bloemfontein |
| South Campus | Bloemfontein |
| QwaQwa Campus | Free State Province |
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes under nine faculties, including:
- Business School
- Economic and Management Sciences
- Education
- Health Sciences
- Humanities
- Law
- Natural & Agricultural Sciences
- Open Distance Learning
- Theology & Religion
About the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition
The UFS Bursary – Star of Stars Competition South Africa for 2025 is aimed at empowering outstanding learners in the Free State province. It is open to Matric learners who demonstrate academic brilliance, leadership ability, and community engagement.
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition fees for the 2026 academic year at UFS
- Mentorship and personal development support
- Leadership training and academic guidance
- Prize money and additional incentives
- Exposure to career and networking opportunities
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Star of Stars Competition, applicants must meet the following conditions:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| School Grade | Must be in Grade 12 in the year 2025 |
| Residency | Must reside in one of the following Free State districts: • Fezile Dabi • Lejweleputswa • Motheo • Thabo Mofutsanyana • Xhariep |
| School Type | Must be attending a Quintile 1, 2, or 3 school (no-fee schools including rural and township schools) |
| Academic Record | Must have a strong academic performance throughout high school |
| University Application | Must apply to UFS for the 2026 academic year |
| APS Score | Must obtain a minimum APS of 35 in the final Matric results |
| Application Compliance | Must read, understand, and agree to the terms and conditions of the competition |
Selection Process and Awards
The selection process for the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition is based on three pillars:
- Academic Excellence
- Leadership Achievements
- Community Involvement
Key Stages
- Top 20 Finalists announced by 30 September 2025
- Finalists will receive recognition and prizes at their schools
- Top 10 Winners to be announced after the Grade 12 final exam results in January 2026
- Induction into the Star of Stars cohort during a special camp at a private game reserve
Finalists Receive
- Academic and personal mentorship
- Exclusive training sessions
- Gala recognition events
- Prize money
- Residence deposit covered upon UFS registration
How to Apply for the UFS Star of Stars Bursary
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Visit the official bursary portal and download the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Application Form 2025 (PDF).
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Attach certified copies of the following:
- South African ID document
- Grade 11 final results
- Matric March and June results
- Letters/certificates of achievements in Grade 11 and Matric
- Motivational letter (~500 words) explaining why you deserve the bursary
- Application form signed and stamped by your school principal
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You can submit your completed form and documents via:
Post
yamlCopyEditStar of Stars
Attention: Director
Student Recruitment Services
PO Box 339
Bloemfontein
9300
Hand Delivery
bashCopyEditStudent Recruitment Services
Wekkie Saayman Building
c/o Rector and Graduandi Avenue
UFS Campus, Bloemfontein
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Open | 1 April 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2025 |
| Top 20 Announcement | 30 September 2025 |
| Top 10 Announcement | January 2026 |
| Bursary Activation | Upon registration at UFS in 2026 |
Benefits of the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Support | Covers full tuition at UFS for 2026 |
| Recognition | Top achievers are celebrated and mentored |
| Development | Academic guidance and leadership coaching |
| Community | Opportunity to interact with like-minded peers and leaders |
| Incentives | Prize money, camp retreat, and residence support |
Contact Details for the UFS Bursary
If you have any questions about the UFS Bursary – Star of Stars Competition, contact the University of the Free State:
| Contact Person | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Teli Mothabeng |
| [email protected] / [email protected] | |
| Telephone | 051 501 3757 / 051 401 3000 |
FAQs about the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition
Can learners from outside the Free State apply?
No. The UFS Star of Stars Bursary is exclusively for learners residing in the Free State province and attending Quintile 1–3 schools within the region.
Does the bursary cover all years of study?
The bursary covers the first academic year (2026). Future funding or continued support will depend on the student’s performance and available funding at UFS.
What happens if my Matric APS is below 35?
Unfortunately, only candidates with an APS score of 35 or higher in their final results will be considered for the final selection.
Conclusion
If you’re a Grade 12 learner in the Free State with a passion for academics, leadership, and community service, the UFS Bursary Star of Stars Competition is your chance to launch your university career with full support. Prepare early, gather your documents, and submit a compelling application before the 31 August 2025 deadline. It could be your first step toward becoming a leader of tomorrow.
