University of Free State Online Application For 2026

We are excited to announce that the University of the Free State’s application window for the 2026 academic year is now open. If you are planning to pursue post-secondary education and a professional career, we encourage you to explore the resources available here to help you take the next step toward enrolling at the University of the Free State.

Given the high demand, many programs and courses have limited spaces and tend to fill up quickly. To increase your chances of securing a spot in your desired program, we recommend applying as early as possible. The application portal will open on April 1, 2025.

UFS Application Dates 2026 (Application Timelines)

Prospective students are strongly encouraged to submit their applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs at the University of the Free State as early as possible. For the January 2026 intake, we recommend beginning the application process on April 1, 2025. All applications, including the completed application form and supporting documents, must be submitted by September 30, 2025.

UFS Application Process: Open to All with Competitive Selection

At the University of the Free State (UFS), we welcome applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies from all individuals, regardless of background or country of origin. The application process is open to all learners and non-learners, with no discrimination based on language.

Admission is competitive, and selection is based on meeting the specific requirements for your chosen program. Be sure to thoroughly review the program requirements to ensure you qualify before applying.

University of the Free State Application Requirement for 2026

The following documents are required during the application process.

If you are a South African citizen, bring your ID.
If you are an international student, you will need your passport.
If you are under the age of 18, you must present your parent’s ID or passport.
Your final Grade 11 results or the equivalent, stamped by the school
Your mid-year Grade 12 results or the equivalent. If you have already matriculated, your Grade 12 certificate or the equivalent.
Your academic record will be considered only if you are/were a student at another institution of higher learning.
If you do not have an Endorsed South African Senior Certificate, you must obtain USAf accreditation from the examination board for South African universities. A Certificate of Exemption from Universities South Africa (USAf) is required if you do not have an Endorsed South African Senior Certificate.
A mobile phone and an active email address are required.

Before You Apply

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO DETERMINE FIRST WHAT YOU WANT TO STUDY AT UFS BEFORE YOU START THE ONLINE APPLICATION PROCESS.

How to Apply at University of the Free State (UFS) For 2026

To apply for a course at the University of the Free State (UFS), please follow the steps outlined below:

Go to the official application website

Apply online. Visit https://apply.ufs.ac.za

COMPLETE YOUR FORMS

Your application is submitted. You will receive a student number and acknowledgement of your application. If you have not submitted the required documents, you will be requested to do so in order to finalize your application

CANDIDATE SELECTION

Your application is evaluated by the university. Should your evaluation be positive, you will receive a conditional offer to study – SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY OF SPACE.
Selection programmes are excluded. If you have indicated in your application that you require on-campus residence, you will also receive correspondence from Housing and Residence Affairs.
Note that qualifying for your programme of choice does not guarantee admission.

SECURE FUNDING

Source and secure financial support for your studies

FINAL OFFER

When the final Grade 12 results are released in January 2026, all applications will be re-evaluated; you will receive a final offer if your evaluation is positive. Take note that meeting the minimum admission requirements for your programme of choice does not guarantee admission.

ACCEPT THE OFFER

Accept the offer online within the stipulated time frame. If you fail to accept the final offer before the deadline, it will be withdrawn, and you will lose your space. Note that limited spaces are available.

REGISTRATION

Pay the prescribed first payment before registration. You can move into the residence on campus where you have been placed, or into off-campus accommodation, and then start your academic activities, including orientation, academic advice, and registration.

Where to get a University of Free State Application Form For 2026

All campuses of the University of Free State will be open to assist any applicant with their online applications. There is no fee to be assisted by University of Free State staff. During the selection process, the academic requirements of your chosen course, as well as available space, will be considered. Contact any of the campuses listed below for an application form:

CAMPUS	Postal Address	Physical Address	Telephone Numbers
Bloemfontein Campus	University of the Free State PO Box 339 Bloemfontein 9300 South Africa	University of the Free State 205 Nelson Mandela Drive Park West Bloemfontein	+27 51 401 9111
Qwaqwa Campus	Qwaqwa Campus Private Bag X13 Kestell Road Phuthaditjhaba 9866	Kestell Road Phuthaditjhaba	+27 58 718 5000
South Campus	South Campus PO Box 339 Oliver Tambo Street Bloemfontein 9300	Oliver Tambo Street Bloemfontein	+27 51 401 9111 Visit the official website HERE

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