Applying to the University of the Free State (UFS) for the 2025 academic year has been streamlined with an updated Application Point (AP) score policy. This change ensures that only applicants meeting the specified AP thresholds can submit their applications, allowing UFS to focus on qualified candidates and maintain academic standards. Below is a step-by-step guide for both undergraduate and postgraduate applications.
Contents
Step 1: Review Admission Requirements
Before starting your application, it’s crucial to verify that you meet the minimum AP score requirements for your chosen programme. Detailed information on these requirements is available in the 2025 Undergraduate Prospectus, which we recommend reviewing before applying.
- Minimum Requirements: Ensure your AP score and subject choices align with the programme’s requirements.
- ID Verification: UFS verifies South African ID information through an external provider. By continuing with the application, you consent to this process.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Each applicant must complete the UFS online application individually:
- Register and Submit: Once submitted, you will receive a student number (Reference number) for application tracking. Note that receiving a student number does not confirm acceptance; it simply allows you to log in to your profile.
- Grade 12 Rewrite Applicants: Applications are evaluated based on the latest available results. If you have rewritten Grade 12, submit your combined results.
- Examination Type:
- NSC through IEB or SACAI: Select “National Senior Certificate” on the Results Detail page.
- Cambridge International Examination: Choose “Cambridge” on the Results Detail page.
- Documents for Grade 12 Applicants: Current Grade 12 students must upload final Grade 11 results or June Grade 12 report stamped by the school.
Step 3: Documentation for Transfer and International Students
- Transfer Students: If you’re coming from another university, declare your previous studies and upload an academic record/transcript, certificate of conduct, and any degree/diploma certificates.
- International Applicants: For applicants with non-NSC qualifications, you’ll need USAF accreditation for South African universities. Apply for conditional exemption or foreign exemption via USAf.
Note: UFS does not accept the GED for entry into undergraduate programmes. Applicants with a GED are advised to complete an NSC, IEB, or SACAI qualification or equivalent.
Step 4: Postgraduate Applications
All postgraduate programmes at UFS are selection-based and may require additional documentation. Here’s what you need to know:
- Departmental Requirements: Some Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral programmes may require direct departmental applications or pre-registration. Check the specific faculty and department page for guidance.
- Required Documents: Be prepared to upload an academic record, SAQA certificate (for foreign qualifications), CV, motivation letter, dissertation/thesis proposal, and any departmental forms required by your faculty.
For more information, consult the 2025 Postgraduate Prospectus.
Application Assistance
For any questions, use the KovsieCHAT on WhatsApp at 0872406370 or contact:
- Undergraduate Enquiries: +27 51 401 3000 | applications@ufs.ac.za
- Postgraduate Enquiries: +27 51 401 9111, option 1 | studentadmin@ufs.ac.za
Start your application and access additional resources at the UFS Online Application Portal.
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