University of the Free State (UFS) Applications for 2026 Are Now Open – Apply for Free
Planning to kick-start your academic journey at one of South Africa’s top universities? The University of the Free State (UFS) has officially opened applications for the 2026 academic year — and the best part? Applying is completely free.
If you’re aiming to join UFS next year, here’s everything you need to know about deadlines and how to apply online.
Applications Open: 1 April 2025
All applications for undergraduate programmes at UFS officially opened on Tuesday, 1 April 2025. Applications are done online, making the process fast and accessible for both local and international students.
UFS 2026 Undergraduate Application Deadlines
31 May 2025 – Early Closing Programmes
These health and sports-related programmes have an early deadline:
- MB ChB (Medicine)
- Occupational Therapy
- Optometry
- Physiotherapy
- Radiation Science
- Biokinetics
- Dietetics
- Sports Coaching
31 July 2025 – Mid-Year Closing Programmes
If you’re applying to any of the following fields, make sure to submit by the end of July:
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Architecture
31 August 2025 – International Applicants
This is the final deadline for all international undergraduate applications.
30 September 2025 – Final Deadline for All Others
This is the last day to apply for:
- Transferring students from other tertiary institutions
- All other selection and non-selection programmes
Why Choose UFS?
- No application fee – apply for free
- A wide range of career-focused programmes
- Strong academic reputation across multiple faculties
- Campuses in Bloemfontein, QwaQwa, and South Campus
- Welcoming environment for both local and international students
Ready to apply?
The earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a spot in your chosen programme. Keep track of the deadlines, prepare your documents, and get your application in on time.
