University of Fort Hare
Fort Hare: Legacy of Leaders, Future of Africa.
📍 Alice, South Africa 🇿🇦
🏆 #17 in South Africa · THE World #1501
Quick Facts about University of Fort Hare
- Type: Public
- Students: 13,331
- International: 9%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $4,000 – $8,000/year
- Language: English, isiXhosa, Afrikaans
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About University of Fort Hare
Academics
The University of Fort Hare offers a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across six faculties: Education, Law, Management & Commerce, Science & Agriculture, Social Sciences & Humanities, and Health Sciences. The Alice campus is particularly known for its programs in Agriculture, Science, and Education, while the Faculty of Law primarily operates from the East London campus. The university emphasizes a teaching approach that equips students with academic knowledge, professional skills, and research capabilities.
International Students
UFH is home to a diverse student body, with international students comprising approximately 9.45% of its total student population, totaling around 1,185 individuals. The university's Office for International Affairs assists international students with various processes, including study visas and academic transcripts. While specific details on English-taught programs are not explicitly stated, South Africa has 11 official languages, with English widely used in academic settings. The university provides on-campus residences and offers professional student counseling services, health facilities, and a variety of sporting activities to ensure a well-rounded student experience.
Campus & Location
The main campus of the University of Fort Hare is nestled in the historic town of Alice, Eastern Cape, approximately 50 km west of King William's Town. The Alice campus blends historical architecture with modern facilities and is recognized for its focus on community engagement and research in rural development. Alice is a small town, and the university has significantly invested in student accommodation, with over 60% of its students housed on campus in modern student villages. While specific details on local transportation and nearby attractions in Alice are limited, the Eastern Cape province offers rich cultural experiences and natural beauty.
Career Outcomes
The University of Fort Hare is dedicated to fostering student success and preparing graduates for future careers. While specific employment rates for graduates are not readily available, the university's focus on research and student-centered learning, along with its strong reputation, makes it an attractive institution. UFH has a legacy of producing influential leaders, including prominent anti-apartheid activists and political figures such as Nelson Mandela and Robert Sobukwe, indicating a history of impactful alumni. The university also provides employment opportunities to many students, offering them exposure to the professional world.
Information for International Students at University of Fort Hare
University of Fort Hare in Alice, South Africa welcomes international students, with 9% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 9% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English, isiXhosa, Afrikaans
Admissions Requirements for University of Fort Hare
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Fort Hare:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 560
- Application fee: $120
- Application deadline: 2025-10-31
Programs at University of Fort Hare (4 programs)
University of Fort Hare offers 4 programs across Bachelor, Master levels.
Bachelor Programs (2)
- Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
Explores the fundamental principles of life, covering areas such as genetics, microbiology, zoology, and botany.
Field: Biological Sciences
Career outcomes: Biologist, Laboratory Technician, Environmental Scientist, Researcher - Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
Explores the fundamental principles of life, covering areas such as genetics, microbiology, zoology, and botany.
Field: Biological Sciences
Career outcomes: Biologist, Laboratory Technician, Environmental Scientist, Researcher
Master Programs (2)
- Master of Science in Mathematics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
An advanced program in pure or applied mathematics, focusing on theoretical concepts, problem-solving, and research.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Data Scientist, Researcher - Master of Science in Mathematics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
An advanced program in pure or applied mathematics, focusing on theoretical concepts, problem-solving, and research.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Data Scientist, Researcher
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Fort Hare
Annual tuition for international students: $4,000 – $8,000/year
✅ University of Fort Hare offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Fort Hare
- National Ranking: #17 in South Africa
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1501
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at University of Fort Hare
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Pivotal in Black African education
- Produced influential African leaders
- Diverse academic programs offered
- Welcomes international student body
- Historic Alice campus location
Accreditation
- Department of Higher Education and Training
- Association of African Universities (AAU)
- Universities South Africa (USA)
Fields of Study at University of Fort Hare
- Law
- Agriculture
- Science
- Education
- Social Sciences
Notable Alumni
- Nelson Mandela
- Robert Sobukwe
- Govan Mbeki
- Z. K. Matthews
- Archibald Campbell Jordan
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Fort Hare
What is University of Fort Hare?
University of Fort Hare is a public university located in Alice, South Africa. It has approximately 13,331 students, with 9% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Fort Hare?
Tuition fees at University of Fort Hare for international students range from $4,000 – $8,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Fort Hare?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 560. Application fee: $120. Application deadline: 2025-10-31.
What language are courses taught in at University of Fort Hare?
Courses at University of Fort Hare are taught in English and isiXhosa and Afrikaans. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does University of Fort Hare offer?
University of Fort Hare offers 4 programs: 2 Bachelor's, 2 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of Fort Hare ranked?
#17 in South Africa · THE World #1501.
Does University of Fort Hare offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Fort Hare offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Fort Hare provide visa support?
Yes, University of Fort Hare provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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