Before you apply
How to Apply
I know these online portals can feel like a maze, but take it one step at a time and you'll get through it fine. Apply through the official UFS Online Applications portal at apply.ufs.ac.za, and good news, applying to UFS is completely free with no application fee.
Have your certified ID copy ready, along with your latest academic results (Grade 11 finals or Grade 12 marks if you have them), and certified copies of any previous qualifications if you're applying postgrad. Applications open on 1 April 2026 and close on 31 August 2026. You can also download the full 2027 undergraduate prospectus from the UFS website to check requirements for every programme before you apply.
Application fee
General: R0
Closing date
UFS does not charge an application fee, but Health Sciences closes much earlier than the general September deadline.
How you apply
Online, through the university's portal
Know what you're applying for
Before you apply, work out what you're interested in studying and check whether you meet the entry requirements — it decides which programmes are worth putting on your application.
Documents you'll need
- Certified copy of your ID or passport
- Certified copy of your latest results (Grade 11 or matric, whichever you have)
- Academic transcript — only if you're a transfer student from another institution
- SAQA evaluation — only if you did your schooling outside South Africa
- Proof of residence — only if you're applying for a res spot
Don't forget NSFAS
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) is a separate application from your university application, with its own closing date. Applying to University of the Free State does not apply you for NSFAS — you need to do both.
Apply for NSFAS at nsfas.org.zaAdvertisement
Applying
- 1
Open the UFS online application
Start at ufs.ac.za and choose the application system.
- 2
Pick your campus and programme
Choose between Bloemfontein, Qwaqwa, or South Campus where relevant.
- 3
Upload your ID and Grade 11 transcript
Use clear certified copies before you submit.
- 4
Submit before your faculty closes
General applications close on 30 September 2026, but Health Sciences closes on 31 May 2026.
After you apply
Once UFS has your application, keep checking both your email and self-service portal for updates.
UFS may still ask for NBTs, selection forms, or other faculty-specific steps before it confirms your place. A provisional offer still needs follow-through from you.
Accept your offer online and move on residence planning early if you want Kovsie accommodation.
Rewrite matric
Improve your marks and reapply.
Try other unis
See where your current APS still fits.
Gap year
Work, volunteer, and plan your next cycle.
