The University of the Free State (UFS) expects an NSC or NCV endorsed for degree study, the minimums set for your programme, and at least level 4 (50%) in English Home Language or First Additional Language. Meeting the minimums does not guarantee a place. The 2027 application windows have now closed, and applications are made online at apply.ufs.ac.za.
UFS has Bloemfontein, South and Qwaqwa campuses. Programme-level points and subject minimums are set in the UFS 2027 undergraduate prospectus, so use that for the exact course you want.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- An NSC or NCV endorsed for degree study
- The minimums for your programme, as set out by UFS
- At least level 4 (50%) in English Home Language or English First Additional Language
- Application within the programme’s window: 31 May, 31 July, 31 August (international) or 30 September for the 2027 intake
- No application fee: UFS says application is free, for up to two study options
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
Nationally, a Bachelor’s degree needs an NSC with at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the institution and an achievement rating of 4 (50 to 59%) or better in four 20-credit NSC subjects. A Diploma needs the same 30% plus a rating of 3 (40 to 49%) or better in four such subjects. Institutions may set additional requirements, so confirm the rest with UFS.
UFS’s own admission leaflet states a minimum of level 4 (50%) in English Home Language or English First Additional Language. That leaflet was written for the 2023 intake, so check the current prospectus. Read the UFS leaflet What do you need to study at UFS alongside the prospectus.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
UFS sets subject and points minimums per programme in its 2027 undergraduate prospectus. Look up your course there rather than relying on a general figure, because the requirements for a given programme differ. The online application portal also offers a tool that shows the programmes you qualify for based on your results.
Documents and Application Requirements
- Learners still at school submit their final Grade 11 results or their June Grade 12 results
- Documents must not exceed 5 MB each and do not need to be certified
- International applicants need a valid study visa, and a Universities South Africa (USAf) Certificate of Exemption if they do not hold a South African National Senior Certificate
Upload them when you complete the online application form.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
For the 2027 intake, applications opened on 1 April 2026. Closing dates were:
- 31 May: MBChB, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Physiotherapy, Radiation Science, Biokinetics, Dietetics and Sports Coaching
- 31 July: Nursing, Social Work and Architecture
- 31 August: international applicants
- 30 September: all other programmes
All of these dates have passed. Check apply.ufs.ac.za for the next application cycle. You can apply for up to two study options, so choose an alternative that you also meet the minimums for. Confirm which campus your programme runs on at the UFS prospective students pages before you plan accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Free State University?
UFS has Bloemfontein, South and Qwaqwa campuses. Check which campus offers your programme.
What are the University of Free State courses and requirements?
Degree entry needs an endorsed NSC or NCV, English at level 4 (50%) and the programme minimums in the UFS 2027 prospectus. Closing dates for the 2027 intake ran from 31 May to 30 September by programme.
Is there an application fee at UFS?
No. UFS states that application is free for the 2027 intake.
Do I need to certify my documents?
No. UFS says you do not need to certify your documents, which must not exceed 5 MB each.
Can international students apply?
Yes, with a valid study visa. Applicants without an NSC need a USAf Certificate of Exemption. The 2027 international closing date was 31 August.
Does UFS use an APS?
Programme minimums are set in the 2027 prospectus. The application portal offers a tool to view the programmes you qualify for.
Confirm programme requirements with the University of the Free State. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.