University of the Free State (UFS) Late Applications Link 2026

The University of the Free State (UFS) is a major public university in South Africa. 

It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across its Bloemfontein, Qwaqwa, and South campuses. 

Each year, thousands of students apply to begin studying the following year. 

Many prospective applicants look for a late application link for 2026 when they miss the posted deadlines. 

When did UFS open applications for 2026?

The University of the Free State opened its online application portal for the 2026 academic year on 1 April 2025. 

This applies to most undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications offered at the university.

UFS uses its official application system at apply.ufs.ac.za for both undergraduate and postgraduate admissions. 

You must complete all stages of the online form and submit the required documents before the closing dates listed by the university.

What are the official UFS application closing dates for 2026?

UFS has programme-specific closing dates for the 2026 intake:

1. 31 May 2025 – Closing date for Health Sciences and related selective programmes such as MB ChB, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Physiotherapy, Radiation Science, Biokinetics, Dietetics, and Sports Coaching.
2. 31 July 2025 – Closing date for Nursing, Social Work, Architecture and similar selection programmes.
3. 31 August 2025 – Closing date for international undergraduate applications.
4. 30 September 2025 – Closing date for most other undergraduate selection and non-selection programmes, including transfers from other institutions.

These dates apply to undergraduate degree applications. 

Postgraduate programmes often have later or faculty-specific closing dates, which you must check on the UFS postgraduate pages or prospectus.

Does UFS accept late applications for 2026?

According to official information, UFS does not offer a dedicated late applications link for the 2026 intake. 

The university expects all applicants to apply before the published closing dates. 

This means that once an application window closes for a specific programme, you cannot submit a new application via the online portal for that intake.

Unlike some universities that have late enquiry systems or extended windows for space-available courses, UFS uses only the main online application portal for its admissions process.

How to apply online at UFS for 2026

To apply for study at the University of the Free State:

1. Visit the official UFS application portal at https://apply.ufs.ac.za.
2. Choose whether you are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate study.
3. Create an account using a valid email address.
4. Complete all sections of the application form.
5. Upload certified copies of required documents such as your South African ID or passport, latest academic results, and any other specified certificates.
6. Submit your application before the relevant closing date.

Once your application has been submitted online, you will receive a confirmation email with details about how to track your application status.

What if I missed the UFS deadline?

If you missed the official closing date for your chosen programme, here are your options:

1. Contact UFS Admissions: Even if the regular application period is closed, contacting the admissions office can clarify whether any late or special consideration opportunities are open for your specific programme.
2. Prepare for the next cycle: If no late options are available, plan to apply early next year when the UFS application portal reopens for the subsequent intake.
3. Consider alternatives: Other universities or colleges may have open applications or separate intake dates for mid-year or second-semester entry. Always check the official sites.

How do I track my UFS application status?

After you submit your application, UFS will send a confirmation email with login details for the Self-Service portal at https://myapplication.ufs.ac.za. 

Use these credentials to track the status of your application online.

UFS does not provide application status information by phone. Checking online or via email is the official method.

Official UFS contact information

Admissions and Application Support

• Email: studentadmin@ufs.ac.za
• Phone: +27 (0)51 401 9111
• Application help (WhatsApp): 087 240 6370
• General enquiries: +27 (0)51 401 3000
• Application portal: https://apply.ufs.ac.za

Application Helpdesk (Check Status and Support)

• Phone: +27 51 401 9666
• Email: studentadmin@ufs.ac.za

These contacts are official ways to get help with your application or to ask about any exceptions to deadlines or procedures.

FAQs