UFS – Media24: Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa 2026 – 2027 - ZABusaries | South African Bursaries, University Applications & Student Funding

UFS | Media24: Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa 2026 – 2027

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UFS – Media24: Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition South Africa |

The UFS Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition 2026 – 2027 is a prestigious competition hosted by the University of the Free State (UFS) in partnership with Novus Media. The competition recognizes exceptional Grade 12 learners who have excelled academically, in sport, culture, leadership, or community involvement.

Successful finalists stand a chance to receive UFS bursaries, cash prizes, and other awards while earning recognition as some of South Africa’s top matric achievers. If you plan to study at the University of the Free State in 2027, this competition is an excellent opportunity to secure funding for your tertiary education.

About the UFS Matriculant of the Year Competition

The University of the Free State has hosted the Matriculant of the Year Competition for over four decades, making it one of South Africa’s most respected learner recognition programmes.

Rather than focusing solely on academic excellence, the competition rewards well-rounded learners who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in:

Academics
Leadership
Sport
Culture
Community involvement

Applicants are evaluated on their overall achievements, personality, leadership qualities, and future potential.

What the Competition Offers

Successful finalists may receive:

UFS bursaries
Cash prizes from competition sponsors
Recognition as one of South Africa’s top matric learners
Free accommodation during the final competition
Meals provided during the final event
Networking opportunities
National recognition and awards

The University announces the value of bursaries and prizes during the competition.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the UFS Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition 2026 – 2027, applicants should:

Be currently in Grade 12 during 2026.
Intend to study full-time at the University of the Free State in 2027.
Be an outstanding learner in academics, leadership, sport, culture, or community service.
Attend a Quintile 1 to Quintile 5 public school, a private school, or be home-schooled.
Agree to the competition’s terms and conditions.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, as the competition is highly competitive.

Required Supporting Documents

Applicants are generally required to submit:

Completed application form
Recent passport-size or school-uniform photograph
Certified copy of Grade 11 final results
Certified Grade 12 March and June examination results
Supporting documents for academic, sporting, leadership, or cultural achievements
School principal’s signature and official school stamp on the application form

Incomplete applications may be disqualified.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted using the official UFS entry form.

To apply:

Download the official Matriculant of the Year Competition Entry Form.
Complete every section of the application.
Obtain your school principal’s signature and school stamp.
Attach all required supporting documents.
Submit your application via email or hand delivery before the closing date.

UFS Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition Application Link

Download the official application form and view competition details here:

Official Competition Page:
UFS Matriculant of the Year Competition

Applicants should carefully read all competition rules before submitting their application.

Closing Date

The closing date for the UFS Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition 2026 – 2027 is 1 August 2026.

Applications submitted after 1 August 2026 may not be considered. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid missing the deadline.

Selection Process

The competition follows several stages:

Applications are reviewed after the closing date.
Approximately 25 semi-finalists are selected.
Fourteen finalists are invited to the final competition held at the University of the Free State.
Winners are announced during the official gala event.

Judges consider academic achievement together with leadership, sport, culture, personality, and overall contribution.

Tips for a Successful Application

To improve your chances of success:

Submit your application before the deadline.
Include every required supporting document.
Highlight achievements in academics, leadership, sport, and culture.
Ensure your application is signed by your school principal.
Carefully review your application before submitting.

Why Apply?

The UFS Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition 2026 – 2027 offers much more than financial assistance. It gives talented learners national recognition, valuable networking opportunities, and the chance to begin their university journey with one of South Africa’s leading institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply?

Any Grade 12 learner in 2026 who intends to study full-time at the University of the Free State in 2027 and meets the competition requirements.

What does the competition reward?

Successful finalists may receive UFS bursaries, cash prizes, awards, and other sponsored prizes.

What is the closing date?

The UFS Matriculant of the Year Bursary Competition 2026 – 2027 closes on 1 August 2026.

Can private school learners apply?

Yes. Learners from Quintile 1–5 public schools, private schools, and home-school environments are eligible, provided they meet the competition requirements.