Are you a high-achieving Matric student from the Free State province with dreams of studying at the University of the Free State (UFS)? The UFS Star of Stars Competition for 2024 offers an incredible opportunity to turn those dreams into reality. This prestigious competition seeks to reward students who excel academically, demonstrate strong leadership, and contribute positively to their communities. By participating, you stand a chance to receive a comprehensive bursary covering your studies at UFS for the 2025 academic year, along with additional benefits that will support your personal and professional development. Read on to find out how you can apply and take the first step towards a bright future.
About the University of the Free State (UFS)
The University of the Free State (UFS) has a rich history dating back to 1904, initially opening as a tertiary section of Grey College. It became an independent Afrikaans-language university in 1950 under the name University of the Orange Free State, before adopting its current name in 2001. UFS boasts three campuses: South Campus, Main Campus (Bloemfontein Campus), and Qwaqwa Campus, and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs through its nine faculties.
About the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition
The UFS Star of Stars Competition invites students from the Free State province to apply for bursaries for the 2025 academic year. The competition is open to students in any field of study at UFS, and candidates will be evaluated on academic performance, leadership achievements, and community involvement. The bursary covers the cost of studies at UFS and includes prize money, personal development, and exposure opportunities.
Selection Criteria
Bursary awards will be based on three main criteria:
- Academic performance
- Leadership achievements
- Community involvement
The top 20 finalists will be announced by 30 September 2024, with prizes delivered to their schools. To qualify, top finalists must achieve a minimum APS score of 35 in their Matric final results. Winners will be announced during a gala evening in early February 2025, and the top 10 finalists are required to attend the Star of the Stars weekend and gala event in early February 2025. Bursary awards will be paid in 2025 after the student has registered at UFS.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the UFS Star of Stars bursary competition, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Current Matric student in 2024: Applicants must be in their final year of high school.
- Residence: Applicants must reside in one of the following Free State districts: Fezile Dabi, Lejweleputswa, Motheo, Thabo Mofutsanyana, or Xhariep.
- School type: Applicants must attend a Quintile 1, 2, or 3 school in the Free State (no-fee schools including Dinaledi schools, township schools, or rural schools).
- Academic record: Applicants must have a strong academic record.
- UFS application: Applicants must have applied to study at the University of the Free State for the 2025 academic year before the competition closing date.
- Agreement to terms: Applicants must agree to all terms and conditions of the competition.
Application Process
- Download the application form: Access the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition Application Form 2024 [here](link to the PDF).
- Prepare supporting documents: Submit clear copies of the following:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Certified copy of Grade 11 final results
- Certified copy of Matric March results
- Certified copy of Matric June results
- Proof of Grade 11 and Matric achievements (letters/certificates of provincial and national achievements)
- Motivational letter (approximately 500 words) explaining why you deserve the bursary
- Principal’s endorsement: Ensure the application form is stamped and signed by your school principal.
- Submit the application: Applications can be submitted by post or hand delivery to the following addresses:
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