Are you a student residing in the Free State and looking forward to getting an opportunity to get enrolled and have your fees paid freely with the University of the Free State? Then this program has come to quench your desire. To get more details of this program, read the article below.

The UFS Star of Stars Competition is available to all 2026 matriculants who wish to pursue a qualification in any study discipline offered by the UFS.

All students who wish to enter will be evaluated by the university based on their academic performance, leadership skills, and their involvement in the local community. Winners of this competition will be awarded prize money, and a chance for personal development.

Closing Date

This Bursary closes on 31 August 2026.

Please ensure that your application along with any requested supporting documents is submitted by this date. Failure to do so will result in your application not being accepted nor considered.

What is the UFS Star of Stars Competition?

The Star of Stars Competition was established by the University of the Free State. It provides ample opportunity for those who wish to further their education prospects.

The UFS Star of Stars Competition caters to all matriculants looking to enroll with the university. This competition aims to bring more awareness and demand for students to enroll in tertiary education.

The Star of Stars Competition looks to draw in as many students as possible to incite a passion for education and learning by placing prize money and exposure incentive. 

Who Can Apply?

The Star of Stars Competition is open to 2026 matric students that reside in the Free State province. Students are required to meet the following criteria:

• Applicants must have a high academic record and performance.
• Applicants must be attending school in the Free State at Quintile 1, 2, or 3 schools.
• Applicants must have applied to study at the University of the Free State for the 2026 academic year and done so before the closing date of this competition.

What Does The Competition Cover?

The Star of Stars Competition will conduct a thorough judging evaluation and identify 10 finalists.

From there, the winner of the competition, the finalist with the best individual character achievement, and the finalist with the most spirited personality will be announced at a UFS gala dinner at the beginning of the 2026 academic year.

The winner will receive the prize money along with the opportunity for tertiary education.

How To Apply?

To apply for the UFS Star of Stars Competition is simple. All you need to do is download and complete the application form here. Once complete, you can send in your application through the following methods:

Mail 

Star of Stars
Attention: Director
Student Recruitment Services
PO Box 339
Bloemfontein
9300

Hand Delivery

Student Recruitment Services
Wekkie Saayman Building
℅ Rector and Granduandi Avenue
UFS Campus
Bloemfontein

Make sure to include the following supporting documents with your application:

• A certified copy of your ID
• A certified copy of your Grade 11 final results
• A certified copy of your Matric March and June results
• List of achievements regarding leadership in Matric and Grade 11
• List of Community Involvement during Matric and Grade 11
• A motivational letter of at least 500 words stating why you would be a suitable choice for this competition.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns relating to the UFS Star of Stars Competition, then you can contact the University of the Free State through the following means:Contact Number – 051 401 3000
Email – ufsmarketing@ufs.ac.za