University of the Free State (UFS)

The University of the Free State, known as the UFS, is a multi-campus university based in Bloemfontein. It opened in 1904 and now teaches more than 39,000 students across seven faculties. Applying is free, which makes it one of the more affordable universities to apply to.

About the UFS

The university opened its doors in 1904 as Grey University College, with six students in the humanities. Over the following century, it grew into a full university. It then expanded with the Qwaqwa Campus in the Eastern Free State in 2003, and with the South Campus in Bloemfontein in 2004.

Faculties and campuses

The UFS has three campuses: the Bloemfontein Campus, the South Campus and the Qwaqwa Campus. It teaches through seven faculties: Economic and Management Sciences, Education, Health Sciences, the Humanities, Law, Natural and Agricultural Sciences, and Theology and Religion. Not every programme runs on every campus, so check where your qualification is offered.

Applying to the UFS

Online applications for 2027 opened on 1 April 2026, and the university does not charge an application fee. Closing dates differ by programme. For example, Health Sciences selection programmes close at the end of May, Social Work closes on 31 July, and many other undergraduate programmes close between the end of July and the end of September.

Because of these differences, look up the closing date for your exact programme before you plan. If you want a selection programme such as medicine, apply as early as possible in your matric year.

Fees and funding

The UFS publishes programme prices and student finance information each year. Residence costs add to the total if you live on campus. Qualifying students can apply for NSFAS. You can see bursaries linked to the university on the UFS provider page, and you can compare more options on our bursaries page.

Is the UFS right for you?

The UFS suits students who want a large university in a smaller city, with lower living costs than the major metros. The Qwaqwa Campus also gives students in the Eastern Free State a local option. Since applying costs nothing, it is easy to include the UFS among your choices.

Before you apply to the UFS

Check the admission point score and subject requirements for your programme, and note which campus offers it. Selection programmes in the health sciences close much earlier than the rest, so plan for the end of May if you want one of them. Apply for residence at the same time as your studies if you will live on campus. Since there is no application fee, you lose nothing by applying early.