Grade 12 learners with strong academic, sports, cultural, or leadership achievements can compete for bursaries and cash prizes through the UFS Matriculant of the Year Competition. It's open to any matric achiever — your school doesn't need to enter you, and it covers all fields and faculties. Top finalists win bursary funding from UFS Student Recruitment Services plus sponsor prize money (exact value to be announced). 25 semi-finalists are picked from all entries, each committing to study full-time at UFS in 2027. From there, 14 top finalists compete in the final round at UFS in Bloemfontein from 5 to 7 October 2026. Accommodation and meals are covered for finalists, though travel costs aren't. To apply, complete the official entry form with certified results (Grade 11 finals, March and June 2026 exams), a postcard-size school photo in uniform, and your principal's signature and school stamp. Submit by email to Linda Greyling (greylinl@ufs.ac.za) or hand-deliver to UFS Student Recruitment before the closing date, then phone 051 401 3384 to confirm it was received. Incomplete entries will be disqualified..