The University of Fort Hare (UFH), a historic public university in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa, opens applications annually for undergraduate and postgraduate study. 

To maximise your chances of acceptance, it is essential to meet admission criteria, submit all required documents, and apply by official deadlines.

When can I apply to the University of Fort Hare?

Applications for the 2026 academic year open on 12 May 2025 for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

What are the UFH application deadlines?

  • Undergraduate applications close on 31 October 2025
  • Postgraduate deadlines are extended and remain open into late 2025

What are the minimum admission requirements?

For Bachelor’s degrees, applicants must hold a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with:

  • A minimum rating of 4 (50–59 %) in English First Language or Second Language
  • A rating of 4 or higher in four 20‑credit subjects, plus at least rating 2 (30–39 %) in one other subject
  • Life Orientation at rating 4 or higher
  • A total Admission Point Score (APS) of 26 or higher, though many programmes require higher APS and subject-specific levels

How do I submit my application online?

You register on the UFH online portal via ufh.ac.za → Apply Now, select “NO” if you are not a returning student, create an account, accept terms, and receive your student number and temporary PIN via email.

What documents must I upload?

You must submit separate PDF/JPG/TIFF/GIF copies of:

  • Proof of application fee payment
  • Certified ID or passport (for international applicants)
  • Grade 12 mid‑year or final NSC results
  • Guardian consent form if under 18
  • Additional documents depending on programme or visa status

How much is the application fee and how do I pay?

There is a non‑refundable application fee of R120 payable via PayGate or bank transfer. Use your ID number (or passport for international students) as payment reference.

Bank details include Standard Bank, Alice branch, account 282101357, branch code 050119.

How will I know if my application is successful?

You can track your application status by logging into the UFH portal. You’ll be conditionally or provisionally accepted based on mid‑year results, with final acceptance dependent on final NSC results. Notification is typically via email or SMS.

1. When do applications open?
Applications open on 12 May 2025.
2. When do applications close?
Undergraduate applications close on 31 October 2025. Postgraduate deadlines may extend later. Visit the official dates at www.ufh.ac.za/apply.
3. What is the minimum APS required?
A minimum APS of 26 is required for most undergraduate programmes. Some programmes may require higher scores.
4. How much is the application fee?
The non-refundable application fee is R120. Payment details are provided during the online application process.
5. What documents must I upload?
You must upload: certified copy of ID/passport, mid-year or final NSC results, proof of payment, and guardian consent form if under 18. Detailed lists are available on the Undergraduate Application page.
6. Can I apply online?
Yes. Apply through the official UFH portal here: www.ufh.ac.za/apply.
7. How many programmes can I apply for?
You may apply for up to three different programmes on the same application.
8. Can I apply using my mid-year results?
Yes. Mid-year Grade 12 results can be used for provisional acceptance. Final admission depends on your final NSC results.
9. What if I’m an international applicant?
You must provide a valid passport, proof of English proficiency, and SAQA evaluation of foreign qualifications. Visit the international student info page at www.ufh.ac.za/international.
10. How do I track my application status?
Login to the UFH student portal to track your application here: www.ufh.ac.za/students. You will also receive email or SMS notifications.