Categories: University Admissions 2023

How to Apply for UFS Online 2026

How to Apply for UFS Online 2026, APPLICATION TO STUDY AT THE UFS IS NOW OPEN

Feeling uncertain about applying to the University of the Free State (UFS) for 2026? Don’t worry, we’re here to guide you every step of the way! Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or returning to study, we’ll help you navigate the online application process and answer any questions you may have. Applications open on April 1, 2025, and close in September 2025. Take a deep breath, relax, and get ready to submit your application with confidence!

Applying to UFS Online: What You Need to Know (January 2026 Intake)

Applying online to the University of the Free State (UFS) for the January 2026 intake is simple! Here’s what you’ll need:

Device: Any internet-connected device will do, whether it’s your smartphone, laptop, or tablet.
Browser: For best compatibility, use Internet Explorer version 7 or 8 or higher.

Documents:

Scanned copies of your final Grade 11 and/or Grade 12 June report (if applicable)
Official full academic record/transcript (for transfers and postgraduate applicants)
Degree/diploma certificate (for transfers and postgraduate applicants)
SAQA certificate (if holding a foreign qualification)
Certificate of conduct
Email address
Contact number

PLEASE NOTE THIS

Your student number, which serves as your specific reference number, will be provided to you when your online application has been completed and approved. It is NOT implied that you have been accepted by the University of the Free State just because you have received a student number (Reference number).

How to Apply for UFS Online 2026

Please follow the instructions below to complete the University of the Free State online application form.

Visit the official website of the University of the Free State at https://apply.ufs.ac.za.
Choose the “Apply” tab from the page’s top menu.
Choose Start Application when you go to the application portal.
Check the accuracy of your email and mailing addresses.
submit your data
Choose your studies wisely.
Include your contact details
Please list your selection criteria.
Publish all supporting files
Choose the Agreement checkbox.
Fill out and send in your forms.

The University of the Free State Courses and Entry Requirements

The University has set the minimum academic requirements for admission to the University of the Free State study programs in 2026.
Applicants writing the National Senior Certificate (NSC) through IEB or SACAI examining bodies can apply online by selecting “National Senior Certificate” under the Results Detail page of the online application process.
Applicants writing the Cambridge International Examination can apply online by selecting “Cambridge” under the Results Details page of the online application process
Applicants currently in Grade 12 are requested to provide school-stamped copies of the final Grade 11 and or grade 12 June report.
Applicants transferring from another university/tertiary institution are required to declare their previous studies when applying as well as upload an official full academic record/transcript with the certificate of conduct and degree/diploma certificate (where applicable).
The University of the Free State does not accept the General Education Development (GED) test for entry into any of its curricular undergraduate qualifications. The GED is no longer recognized by Universities in South Africa (USAF) and is not equivalent to a South African grade 12 (NSC/IEB/SACAI). Applicants who completed the GED and would like to study towards an undergraduate curricular qualification are advised to register and complete a grade 12 NSC/IEB/SACAI or the international equivalent thereof.
Applicants who did not complete /NSC/IEB must have USAF accreditation from the examination board for South African Universities. Click HERE to apply online for conditional exemption, foreign conditional exemption, or mature age conditional exemption, or send an email to applications@usaf.ac.za.