UFS 2026 Applications Are Now Open – Apply Today

Applications for the 2026 academic year at the University of the Free State are now open. Whether you’re seeking admission to an undergraduate or postgraduate program, now is the perfect time to start your application. You can apply either online or manually, ensuring that all necessary documents are uploaded and academic requirements are met.

Applications for all academic programs offered on the Bloemfontein and Qwaqwa campuses are now being accepted. To ensure your application is considered, be sure to submit all required documents within the specified deadlines. Start preparing early by carefully reviewing this guide.

Study at UFS University🎓: Apply for 2026

Are you a high-achieving student with an exceptional academic record? The University of the Free State invites you to apply for its 2026 academic year, offering a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Please note that spaces are limited for all programs, so we encourage you to submit your application early and before the closing dates to avoid any disappointment

When to Apply for UFS 2026: Application Opening and Closing Dates

The University of the Free State will begin accepting applications for the 2026 academic intake on April 1, 2025, for all available programs. This applies to both domestic and international applicants. Please be aware that the application period will close on September 30, 2025, though some courses may have different deadlines. Make sure to submit your application before the respective deadline for your chosen program.

When Do UFS Applications Close? Full Breakdown of 2026 Deadlines for All Programs

The University of the Free State (UFS) offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs across various fields of study, each with its own application deadline. Below is a clear breakdown of the closing dates for applications 2026 to help you stay on track.

31 May 2025

MB ChB
Occupational Therapy
Optometry
Physiotherapy
Radiation Sciences
Biokinetics
Dietetics
Sport Coaching

31 July 2025

Nursing
Social Work
Architecture

30 August 2025

International undergraduate applications
All non-selection programmes
Applications from students transferring from other tertiary institutions (for non-selection)

30 September 2025

Community Development (Qwaqwa Campus only)
Construction Economics and Management (Full-time)
Construction Management (Compact Learning)
Drama and Theatre Arts 1
Fine Arts
Forensic Sciences
Music
Physics with Engineering subjects
Quantity Surveying (Compact Learning)

How to complete the University of the Free State UFS online application Form for 2026

Follow the instructions below to complete the University of the Free State UFS admissions application form.

Step № 1: OFFICIAL WEBSITE

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

Step № 2: 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

Step № 3: 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.

Step № 4: FUNDING

Source and secure financial support for your studies

Step № 5: 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.

Step № 6: ACCEPT 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.

Step № 7: 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

UFS Required Documents For Online Applications 2026

The following documents must be ready at the time of application and submission:

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.

UFS Student Financial Aid

The UFS offers academic merit awards for first-year students. These awards are automatically awarded to new students based on their performance in the final matriculation examination. You can use your merit award to register

UFS CONTACTS

All prospective students are encouraged to complete the application form independently. UFS will not be held responsible for any incorrect information or data provided by applicants regarding admission requirements or courses. For any inquiries, you are advised to visit the official website or contact the university using the following details.

Applications:

Phone: +27 51 401 9111
Email: studentadmin@ufs.ac.za

Information Desk:

Phone: +27 51 401 3000 / 2525 / 9288
Email: studentadmin@ufs.ac.za

Visit the online application login HERE

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