The UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition 2027 gives high-achieving Free State Matric learners a chance to be recognised for academic performance, leadership and community involvement. Learners from Quintile 1 to 3 schools who have applied to study at the University of the Free State in 2027 can enter before the closing date.
This competition is not only about marks.
It also looks at learners who show leadership, serve their communities and aspire to inspire others.
For Grade 12 learners who want to study at UFS in 2027, this competition can open a powerful university support pathway.
What Is The UFS Star Of Stars Bursary Competition 2027?
The UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition 2027 is a University of the Free State competition for top-performing Grade 12 learners.
The competition recognises learners who excel academically and also show leadership or community involvement.
To qualify, learners must currently be in Grade 12 and must have applied to study at UFS in 2027.
Therefore, this opportunity suits learners who already see UFS as part of their university plan.
Why Is This Competition Worth Entering?
Many talented learners from rural and township schools do not always receive the recognition or support they deserve.
The Star of Stars Competition helps change that by celebrating learners who work hard, lead others and contribute positively to their communities.
In addition, finalists may receive prizes, exposure, academic advice and mentorship support.
The Top 10 winners will also take part in an all-expenses-paid Star of Stars induction camp weekend at a private game reserve in 2027.
That makes this competition valuable for learners who want both recognition and preparation for university life.
Who Can Enter The UFS Star Of Stars Competition?
The competition is open to selected Grade 12 learners in the Free State.
Applicants must:
- Be in Grade 12 during the 2026 academic year
- Reside in the Free State province
- Attend a Quintile 1, 2 or 3 school
- Attend a Dinaledi, township or rural school
- Have applied to study at UFS for the 2027 academic year
- Show strong academic performance
- Show leadership achievements or community involvement
- Agree to the competition terms and conditions
The official entry form says learners may enter themselves. Their school does not have to enter them.
Which Free State Districts Are Accepted?
UFS will accept entries from Quintile 1 to 3 schools in the listed Free State districts.
These districts are:
- Motheo
- Xhariep
- Lejweleputswa
- Thabo Mofutsanyana
- Fezile Dabi
This means learners should confirm that their school falls within the accepted district and quintile category before submitting an entry.
Which Fields Of Study Are Covered?
The UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition is linked to learners who plan to study at the University of the Free State in 2027.
Learners may apply for any field of study offered at UFS, provided they meet the university’s admission requirements and have applied before the competition closing date.
However, learners should also check the closing dates for their chosen UFS programme.
The official rules remind learners to familiarise themselves with different UFS programme closing dates and to apply to study at UFS before entering the Star of Stars Competition.
How Will Learners Be Judged?
The competition looks at more than one area of achievement.
Learners will be evaluated on:
- Academic performance
- Leadership achievements
- Community involvement
This gives strong all-round learners a chance to stand out.
For example, a learner who performs well in class, leads at school and participates in community projects can use this competition to show a fuller picture of their potential.
What Is The Selection Process?
The selection process happens in stages.
First, UFS will review entries and identify the Top 20 finalists.
The official rules state that the Top 20 finalists will be announced at the end of September 2026, and prizes will be delivered to eligible candidates at their schools.
After that, the Star of Stars winners, also known as the Top 10, will be announced shortly after Grade 12 final examination results are released in January 2027.
Finally, the Top 10 winners must attend the Star of Stars induction camp after enrolling at UFS in 2027.
What AP Score Must Finalists Achieve?
The Top 20 finalists selected in September 2026 must achieve a minimum AP score of 35 in their Grade 12 final results.
This requirement is important.
It means learners should continue working hard after submitting the competition entry form.
A strong application can help a learner reach the finalist stage, but the final Matric results still matter.
What Documents Must Applicants Submit?
Applicants must attach the correct supporting documents to the completed entry form.
Required documents include:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Certified copy of final Grade 11 results
- Certified copy of Grade 12 March results
- Certified copy of Grade 12 June results
- Proof of Grade 11 and Grade 12 achievements
- Proof of provincial or national achievements, where applicable
- Motivation of about 500 words explaining why the learner deserves selection
The official rules state that applicants must only attach relevant letters, certificates or other documentary proof of provincial and national achievements. CVs will not be accepted.
Why Is The Principal’s Signature Important?
The learner’s school principal must sign and stamp the entry form.
This signature and stamp confirm that the information on the form is correct.
Therefore, learners should not leave this step until the last day.
If the principal’s signature or required reports are missing, UFS may disqualify the entry.
How Should Learners Write The Motivation Letter?
The motivation letter should be about 500 words.
It should explain why the learner deserves to be selected as one of the Star of Stars finalists.
A strong motivation should include:
- Academic goals
- Leadership experience
- Community involvement
- Personal challenges overcome
- Why the learner wants to study at UFS
- How the learner hopes to inspire others
- Future career plans
Do not copy a generic motivation letter.
Instead, write a personal story that shows effort, purpose and ambition.
The best motivation letters sound honest, specific and connected to the learner’s real journey.
How Can Learners Apply?
Learners must download and complete the official UFS Star of Stars application form.
After completing the form, learners must submit it by post or hand delivery.
Post:
Star of Stars
Student Recruitment Services
PO Box 339
Bloemfontein
9300
Attention: Teli Mothabeng
Hand Delivery:
Student Recruitment Services
Wekkie Saayman Building
Corner of Rector and Graduandi Avenue
UFS Campus
Bloemfontein
The official rules also say registered post will not be accepted.
When Is The Closing Date?
The closing date for the UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition 2027 is 31 August 2026.
The official entry form says learners must send the completed form before 31 August 2026.
No late applications will be considered.
Therefore, learners should prepare documents, get certified copies and ask the principal to sign the form well before the deadline.
How Can Applicants Confirm Their Form Was Received?
Applicants may contact UFS to confirm that their entry form has reached the university.
The official form lists the following contact details:
Email: mothabengti@ufs.ac.za / info@ufs.ac.za
Telephone: 051 401 3000
Learners should keep a copy of the completed form and all supporting documents for their own records.
Why Should Free State Matric Learners Take This Seriously?
The UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition 2027 rewards learners who show academic strength, leadership and community impact.
This matters because university success often needs more than admission.
Students also need guidance, confidence, exposure and support.
In addition, this competition can help learners from non-fee-paying schools receive recognition before entering university.
For learners who have worked hard despite limited resources, this can be a powerful opportunity.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: Before submitting, separate your Grade 11 and Grade 12 achievements clearly. Use short labels on your proof documents so UFS can quickly see which achievements belong to which year. Also, ask your principal to sign and stamp the form early because missing that step can disqualify your application.
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Final Thoughts
The UFS Star of Stars Bursary Competition 2027 is a valuable opportunity for Free State Grade 12 learners who want to study at the University of the Free State in 2027.
The competition recognises academic performance, leadership and community involvement.
Learners must attend a Quintile 1 to 3 school in one of the accepted Free State districts, apply to study at UFS for 2027 and submit a complete entry form with all required documents.
Finally, download the application form, prepare your certified copies, get the school principal’s signature and submit before 31 August 2026.
