University of the Free State
#9
In South Africa
#1001-1200
In the world
UFS is a solid pick in the Free State if you want real options after matric. Most degrees need at least 28-34 APS to get in.
Ranking source: THE 2026
www.ufs.ac.za is the official University of the Free State site. Always confirm programme cutoffs in the current prospectus before you apply.
How does UFS calculate APS?
UFS adds your best 6 NSC subject levels for a core score out of 42. Life Orientation sits outside the best 6, but you earn 1 bonus point when LO reaches Level 5 (60%), pushing your max to 43 APS. English is compulsory on most programmes.
| Subject | Final % | APS level |
|---|---|---|
| English Home Language | 82% | 7 |
| Mathematics | 78% | 7 |
| Physical Sciences | 71% | 6 |
| Accounting | 65% | 6 |
| Geography | 64% | 6 |
| Afrikaans FAL | 58% | 5 |
| Best 6 core APS | 37 | |
| + Life Orientation (Level 5, 62%) | 62% | +1 |
| Final UFS APS | 38 |
Faculty cutoffs still apply. Medicine and Actuarial Sciences typically need mid-to-high 30s plus strong Maths and Physical Sciences.
Does UFS include Life Orientation in APS?
Partially. Life Orientation does not sit inside the best-6 total, but it can add 1 bonus point when you hit Level 5 (60%).
What's the UFS APS system at a glance?
- Method
- Best-6 APS with LO bonus
- Max APS
- 43
- LO rule
- Partial
- Basis
- Standard best 6 + LO bonus (1 pt if LO ≥ 60%)
How to calculate your UFS APS step by step
- Convert your best 6 eligible subjects into APS points.
- Add the Life Orientation bonus only if you meet UFS's threshold.
- Check the programme requirements because the LO bonus never replaces a missing subject minimum.
Popular programs
Min. APS
Geography and Environmental Science
32
Bachelor of Administration (BAdmin)
28
Bachelor of Commerce with specialisation in Management
28
Actuarial Science
34
Mathematics and Applied Mathematics
32
About UFS
UFS sits right in Bloemfontein and is a proper go-to for anyone in the Free State or even from other provinces. It’s not as hard to get into as the big coastal varsities, but you s...
Campus & res
UFS has res on campus and some accredited off-campus options for when res is full. On-campus spots go fast, so apply early if you want a place. Private accommodation is an option,...
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