The University of the Free State (UFS), a public multi-campus university located in Bloemfontein, South Africa, accepts online applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. 

This guide explains how to apply, admission requirements, deadlines, and essential documentation—relying only on official UFS information.

When can I apply to UFS?

Applications for the 2026 academic year open on 1 April 2025 via the UFS Online Application portal.

Undergraduate and postgraduate applications begin simultaneously through this portal.

What are the application deadlines?

  • Undergraduate applications: close as follows:
    • Health-related and professional programmes (e.g. MB ChB, Optometry, Nursing): deadlines between 31 May and 31 July 2025
    • Other undergraduate programmes: 30 September 2025
    • International undergraduate applicants: must submit by 31 August 2025 apply.ufs.ac.za.
  • Postgraduate deadlines vary by faculty—typically closing between 30 September and 31 October 2025, with some programme-specific dates differing. Check the relevant faculty page for exact deadlines.

What are the admission requirements?

  • Undergraduate applicants: Must hold a National Senior Certificate (NSC), IEB, or SACAI qualification. Some programmes require admission approval from USAf if qualifications differ; exemptions must be arranged before application.
  • Programme-specific subjects: Specific fields (e.g., Engineering, Health Sciences) require particular subject scores. Consult the UFS admissions requirements page or prospectus for precise criteria.
  • Postgraduate applicants: Required to submit transcripts, degree certificates, and SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications. All postgraduate programmes are selection-based and may require motivation letters or proposals.

How do I submit my application online?

  • Go to apply.ufs.ac.za → create an account → complete all eight stages of the application (Study Choices, Personal Information, Uploads, Agreement, etc.).
  • Undergraduates may choose up to two study options—adding a second later is not possible.

What documents must I upload?

  • Current Grade 12 learners: upload final Grade 11 or June Grade 12 results.
  • Completed matriculants, or tertiary transfer applicants: upload final NSC/academic transcripts and any prior tertiary records.
  • International applicants: certified passport copy and SAQA certificate required. UFS does not require certification of documents as long as they are under 3 MB per file.

Is there an application fee?

UFS charges no application fee—the admission process is completely free at apply.ufs.ac.za.

How will I receive application updates?

After submission, you receive confirmation containing your reference/student number.

Admission offers depend on final Grade 12 results or academic records for transfer students.

Notifications are sent via email or SMS. Status can also be checked via the Self-Service portal at myapplication.ufs.ac.za

1. When does UFS open applications?
Applications open on 1 April 2025 via apply.ufs.ac.za.
2. What is the closing date for undergraduates?
Most programmes close on 30 September 2025; selective programmes earlier. International applicants must apply by 31 August 2025.
3. Is there an application fee?
No. UFS does not charge an application fee—applications are free.
4. What documents are required?
Upload final Grade 11/12 results, academic transcripts, passport (if international), SAQA certificate if applicable.
5. Can I select multiple programmes?
Yes—you can choose up to two study choices; you cannot add or change them later.
6. Do I need USAf approval?
If your qualification is not a recognised NSC/IEB/SACAI, you must obtain matriculation exemption via USAf before applying.
7. How can I check my application status?
Login to myapplication.ufs.ac.za or monitor email/SMS updates.
8. When will I receive an admission decision?
Decisions are based on final results or academic records—issued after verification of documents.
9. Can transfer students apply?
Yes; upload full tertiary transcripts and previous qualification certificates during application.
10. Are postgraduate programmes selection-based?
Yes—all postgraduate degrees are selection programmes and may require additional forms, proposals or motivation letters.