The University of the Free State (UFS), located in South Africa’s heartland, offers a diverse array of academic programs designed to empower students across various fields of study. With seven faculties spread across multiple campuses including Bloemfontein, Qwaqwa, and South Campus, UFS caters to a wide range of academic interests and career ambitions. If you’re planning to enroll at UFS in 2026, this blog post provides a clear and updated overview of the courses available, admission requirements, and special programs to help you make an informed decision.
Faculties and Key Programmes at UFS
UFS organizes its academic offerings into seven faculties, each providing unique qualifications tailored to different disciplines:
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Degrees such as Bachelor of Administration (BAdmin), Bachelor of Accounting, and Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with various specializations including Finance, Marketing, and Economics.
Faculty of Education
- Bachelor of Education (BEd) degrees with specializations across Foundation, Intermediate, Senior, and Further Education and Training phases.
- Language specializations include Afrikaans, English, Sesotho, and isiZulu.
- Programs emphasize preparing future educators with a strong disciplinary foundation and reflective teaching practices.
Faculty of Health Sciences
- Offers degrees in Nursing, Physiotherapy, Medical Sciences, and other health-related fields (details available in the postgraduate prospectus).
Faculty of Law
- Provides the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, equipping students with comprehensive legal knowledge and skills.
Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Offers Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees with majors in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Mathematical Sciences, and Physics.
- Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with fields such as Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences, Plant Breeding, Soil and Crop Sciences, and Agricultural Economics.
- Building Sciences and Architecture programs are also available.
- Admission requires strong performance in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences depending on the program.
Faculty of the Humanities
- Offers Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees covering languages, social sciences, philosophy, history, and cultural studies.
- Programs encourage critical thinking and cultural engagement.
Faculty of Theology and Religion
- Provides theological and religious studies programs for students interested in ministry and related fields.
Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP)
UFS offers Extended Curriculum Programmes designed for students who demonstrate potential but do not meet the standard admission requirements. These programs provide additional academic support and skills development to ensure student success.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
- Admission is competitive and based on the National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualifications, with specific subject and achievement level requirements varying by program.
- An Admission Point Score (APS) is calculated to assess eligibility, with higher scores improving chances of acceptance.
- For example, BSc programs generally require an APS of 32, including Mathematics and Physical Sciences at level 5 (60%) or higher.
- Applications open early in the year and close on 30 September 2025 for most undergraduate programs.
- Applicants must submit certified copies of their ID, academic transcripts, and proof of payment where applicable.
Why Choose UFS?
- UFS is known for its supportive learning environment and commitment to academic excellence.
- The university offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for research, community engagement, and cultural activities.
- Multiple campuses provide access to diverse academic resources and facilities.
- The ECP ensures that students who need extra academic support have a pathway to success.
Tips for Prospective Students
- Review the official UFS 2026 prospectus thoroughly to understand course details and admission criteria.
- Apply early to secure your place and avoid last-minute issues.
- Ensure all supporting documents are certified and clearly scanned before uploading.
- Check for program-specific requirements such as language proficiency or subject prerequisites.
- Keep your application number and login details safe for tracking your application status.
The University of the Free State offers a broad and diverse range of academic programs designed to cater to various interests and career goals. Its commitment to quality education, student support, and community engagement makes it an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded university experience in South Africa.
For the most accurate and detailed information, visit the official UFS website at www.ufs.ac.za and download the 2026 Undergraduate Prospectus.