The University of the Free State (UFS), also known as Kovsies, has officially opened its undergraduate application portal for the 2027 academic year. Applying to UFS is free of charge, making it one of the most accessible higher education options in South Africa.
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To secure a place at the Bloemfontein, Qwaqwa, or South Campus, Grade 12 learners must go through specific selection dates and document requirements.
UFS Undergraduate Application Closing Dates for 2027
UFS operates with strict deadlines. Applications open on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Failure to submit by these dates will result in your application being excluded from the selection process.
| Program Category | Closing Date |
| Selection Programs: MBChB, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Physiotherapy, Radiation Science, Biokinetics, Dietetics, Sports Coaching | May 31, 2026 |
| Specialized Programs: Nursing, Social Work, Architecture | July 31, 2026 |
| International Undergraduate Applications | August 31, 2026 |
| All Other Programs: Transferring students, all other selection and non-selection programs | September 30, 2026 |
Understanding the UFS Admission Point Score (APS)
UFS uses a unique calculation method for your Admission Point (AP) score. Unlike many other universities, UFS considers Life Orientation if you perform well.
How to Calculate Your AP Score:
- Six Academic Subjects: Use your best six subjects, excluding Life Orientation.
- Scoring Scale:
- 90%–100% = 8 points
- 80%–89% = 7 points
- 70%–79% = 6 points
- 60%–69% = 5 points
- 50%–59% = 4 points
- 40%–49% = 3 points
- 30%–39% = 2 points
- Life Orientation Bonus: If you achieve 60% or higher in Life Orientation, you add 1 point to your total score.
- Minimum Requirement: Most degree programs require a minimum of 30 points and a level 4 (50%) in your language of instruction.
Mandatory Documents for Submission
Your application will remain unprocessed if you fail to upload the correct documents. Ensure each file is under 5MB. You do not need to certify these documents for the online submission.
- Current Grade 12 Learners: You must upload your final Grade 11 results or your June Grade 12 results (depending on when you apply).
- Completed Matriculants: A copy of your final National Senior Certificate (NSC).
- Identification: A clear copy of your ID document or passport.
- International Applicants: You must provide predicted or mid-year results. A Universities South Africa (USAf) Certificate of Exemption is required if you do not have a South African NSC.
Step-by-Step UFS Online Application Procedure
1. Consult the Prospectus
Before starting, review the 2027 UFS Undergraduate Prospectus. Only apply for programs where you meet every minimum entrance requirement. You are allowed to choose two study options.
2. Complete All Stages
Access the UFS Online Application Portal. You must complete every stage of the digital form for your application to be successfully submitted.
3. Monitoring Your Status
After submission, UFS will send a confirmation email containing your Student Number. Use this number and your password to log in to the UFS Self-Service Portal to track your progress.
Note: UFS does not disclose application statuses over the phone. You must monitor your email and the self-service portal for updates.
Contact Information and Support
If you encounter technical challenges while applying, use the following official channels for assistance:
- Physical Address: 205 Nelson Mandela Drive, Park West, Bloemfontein, 9301.
- Phone Number: +27 (0)51 401 3000
- WhatsApp (KovsieChat): 087 240 6370
- Email Support: applications@ufs.ac.za
- Official Website: www.ufs.ac.za
International students requiring visa information or exemption assistance should contact the Directorate for International Partnerships and Relations or email oiastudentadmin@ufs.ac.za.