UFS & Media24 – Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa For 2026. Are you a top-performing Grade 12 learner in South Africa aiming to study at a prestigious university in 2026? The Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa 2026 could be your gateway to a brighter future. This distinguished initiative, hosted by the University of the Free State (UFS) in partnership with Media24, is designed to reward excellence in academics, leadership, sports, and cultural achievements.
This long-standing competition is not just a bursary it’s a platform for students to gain national recognition, access higher education funding, and unlock life-changing opportunities. Here’s everything you need to know about this celebrated bursary competition.
About the University of the Free State (UFS)
Established in 1904, the University of the Free State (UFS) began as Grey College School with just six students. It underwent several transitions, becoming the University of the Orange Free State in 1950 and finally adopting its current name in 2001. Today, UFS is recognized for its academic excellence and diverse faculty offerings.
Faculties Offered at UFS
| Faculty | Description |
|---|---|
| Business School | Leading programmes in entrepreneurship and management. |
| Economic and Management Sciences | Equips students with analytical and economic skills. |
| Law | Offers legal education with a focus on social justice. |
| The Humanities | Includes languages, history, and social sciences. |
| Education | Trains future educators and academic leaders. |
| Health Sciences | Offers health-related courses with practical training. |
| Natural and Agricultural Sciences | Focuses on sustainable development and research. |
| Theology and Religion | Provides theological education and interfaith dialogue. |
| Open Distance Learning (ODL) | Flexible learning for students across the country. |
Media24: Empowering Education through Media
Media24, a division of Naspers, is one of South Africa’s largest media companies. With operations in print, digital, ecommerce, and book publishing, Media24 plays a vital role in promoting education and social development. Their collaboration with UFS for this bursary highlights their ongoing commitment to nurturing South African youth.
Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition
The Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa 2026 is open to all Grade 12 learners in 2025 who have excelled in one or more of the following categories:
- Academics
- Sports
- Culture
- Leadership
This esteemed competition has existed for over four decades and continues to recognize the country’s most promising young individuals. Winners are awarded bursaries to study at UFS and receive other exciting prizes and recognition.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa 2026, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
| Eligibility Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Current Academic Year | Must be in Grade 12 during 2025. |
| Academic Excellence | Should demonstrate strong performance or potential in chosen field. |
| Intention to Study at UFS | Must plan to study full-time at the University of the Free State in 2026. |
| Areas of Achievement | Excellence in academics, leadership, sports, or cultural activities. |
| School Type | Open to students from Quintiles 1–5, private schools, or home-schooling. |
| Consent and Acknowledgement | Must read and agree to the terms and conditions in the application form. |
Selection Process
The selection process for this competitive bursary unfolds in three structured phases:
- Semi-Finalist Shortlist: Judges will select 25 semi-finalists based on a comprehensive review of the application forms. A point-based scoring system will be used.
- Finalist Selection: From the semi-finalists, 14 finalists will be chosen and interviewed by a panel in October 2025.
- Winner Announcement: The final winner will be announced at a prestigious gala dinner, based on their achievements and personality.
Application Process
Ready to apply for the Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa 2026? Follow the steps below to ensure your application is complete:
Step 1: Download the Application Form
- Download the official Matriculant of the Year Entry Form 2026 in PDF format.
- Fill in the form accurately.
- When asked “How did you hear about the competition?”, enter: https://www.ufs.ac.za/
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Ensure that the following documents are submitted along with your application:
| Required Document | Note |
|---|---|
| Recent photograph in school uniform | Postcard size |
| Grade 11 final report | Must be certified copy |
| Grade 12 March and June exam results | Certified copies required |
| Principal’s signature and school stamp | Mandatory for form verification |
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Choose one of the following submission methods:
- By Email:
Send to: [email protected]
Subject Line: “Matriculant of the Year Competition” - By Hand Delivery:
Address:
UFS Student Recruitment
Wekkie Saayman Building
c/o Rector and Granduandi Avenue
UFS Bloemfontein Campus
Attention: Linda Greyling
Application Deadline
The closing date for the Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa 2026 is 1 August 2025.
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted, so applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance.
Contact Information
If you have any queries or require assistance during the application process, feel free to contact the official bursary coordinator:
- Contact Person: Linda Greyling
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 051 401 3384
FAQs About
Can I apply if I attend a private or home school?
Yes. The bursary competition is open to students from Quintile 1 to Quintile 5 schools, private institutions, and even those who are home-schooled as long as all other eligibility criteria are met.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Unfortunately, late applications are not accepted. You must submit your completed application along with all required documents on or before 1 August 2025 to be considered.
Do I need to be top in all categories (academics, sports, culture, leadership) to apply?
No. You only need to excel or demonstrate potential in one of the listed categories: academics, sports, cultural activities, or leadership. Being exceptional in a single area is enough to qualify.
Conclusion
The Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa 2026 is more than just a bursary—it’s a celebration of youth excellence. If you’re a matric learner in 2025 with a track record of success or exceptional talent, this is your moment. Apply now, showcase your capabilities, and take the first step toward a brighter academic future at the University of the Free State.
