How Do I Apply for the University of the Free State (UFS) 2027?

Applying to the University of the Free State (UFS) is simple if you follow the correct steps. The online process is designed to be user-friendly, even for first-time applicants.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for the UFS 2027 application process.

UFS 2027 Application Window

It’s very important to apply on time.

Applications open: April 1, 2026
General closing date: 30 September 2026
Selection programmes (e.g. Health Sciences): Close earlier: 31 July 2026)

Late applications are not accepted, so apply early

PROGRAMMES AT UFS

At UFS, you can apply for undergraduate programmes across seven faculties:

Economic & Management Sciences
Education
Health Sciences
Law
Natural & Agricultural Sciences
Humanities
Theology & Religion

You must meet the minimum admission requirements for your chosen programme.

Admission is competitive, meaning meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.

Campuses at UFS

You can study at different campuses:

Bloemfontein Campus (main campus)
Qwaqwa Campus
South Campus (blended learning)

What Results Do I Need?

Admission is based on:

Your NSC (Grade 12) results
Your Admission Point (AP) score
Specific subject requirements per programme

Important:

Selection starts from the highest AP scores
Most programmes require:
- English Level 4 (50%) or higher

Minimum Admission Score (AP)

Many programmes require an AP of 28–34+
Competitive programmes (e.g. Medicine, Law, BSc) require higher AP scores

Always aim above the minimum.

Required Documents for 2027 Applications

You must upload the following:

South African Applicants

Mobile phone and an active email address
Your ID if you are a South African citizen
Your passport if you are an international student
Your parent’s ID or passport if you are younger than 18
Your final Grade 11 results or the equivalent thereof with the school’s stamp
Your mid-year Grade 12 results or the equivalent thereof
Grade 12 certificate or the equivalent thereof if you have already matriculated
Your academic record, only if you are/were a student at another institution of higher learning
USAf accreditation from the examination board for South African universities
Universities South Africa (USAf) Certificate of Exemption is required if you do not have an Endorsed South African Senior Certificate.

Foreign Applicants

Your passport or South African identity document
Your final Grade 11 results with the school’s stamp
If available, your final Grade 12 results with the school’s stamp
If available, a certified copy of your school-leaving certificate
If applicable, proof that you are currently enrolled for the Advanced Subsidiary/Advanced level
If applicable, study record (academic transcript) with a certificate of conduct and/or qualification certificate if you have obtained your degree
Obtain mandatory South African medical aid
Apply for your study visa.
Proof of payment of the USAf fee made directly to USAf
Uncertified senior/school leaving certificate
Uncertified academic records of UFS discretionary year studies

Missing documents = application not processed

How Do I Apply?

All applications are online only via www.apply.ufs.ac.za.

Step-by-Step Process:

Check Programme Requirements
Prepare Your Contact Details
- Email
- Phone number
- Address
Register on the UFS Application Portal
Complete the Online Form
- Fill in personal & academic details
Upload Required Documents
Review & Submit Application
Receive Confirmation (Email/SMS)
Wait for Feedback

No walk-ins, emails, or manual applications are accepted.

Application Fee

There is no application fee associated with the University of the Free State for the 2027 academic year application period.

International Students

International applicants must:

Meet equivalent qualification requirements
Provide a valid study permit/visa
Follow additional enrolment steps

Final Tips

Apply as early as possible
Choose programmes wisely (based on your results)
Double-check all uploaded documents
Aim for a higher AP score than required

How Do I Contact UFS?

You can contact UFS via:

CAMPUS	Postal Address	Physical Address	Telephone Numbers
Bloemfontein Campus	University of the Free StatePO 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 CampusPrivate Bag X13 Kestell Road Phuthaditjhaba 9866	Kestell Road Phuthaditjhaba	+27 58 718 5000
South Campus	South CampusPO Box 339 Oliver Tambo Street Bloemfontein 9300	Oliver Tambo Street Bloemfontein	+27 51 401 9111 Visit the official website HERE

QUICK LINKS