University of the Free State

Quick Facts about University of the Free State

• Founded: 1981
• Type: Public
• Students: 41,169
• Campus: Multiple Campuses
• Tuition: $6,000 – $12,000/year
• Language: English, Afrikaans, Sesotho, IsiZulu
• Intakes: Fall, Spring

About University of the Free State

Academics

UFS offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across seven faculties: Economic and Management Sciences, Education, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law, Natural and Agricultural Sciences, and Theology and Religion. The university is recognized for its strong research initiatives, with scholars who are international leaders in their fields, focusing on real-world application and social impact. Notably, UFS has a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, exemplified by initiatives like the Green Futures Hub, which bridges academic research and industry to solve challenges related to climate change and sustainable agriculture.

International Students

The University of the Free State actively welcomes and supports international students, offering a "home away from home" experience. The Office for International Affairs (OIA) serves as a central hub, providing comprehensive support including assistance with admissions, visa and study permit requirements, accommodation, and financial guidance. While South Africa has 11 official languages, English is the primary medium of instruction at UFS, making it accessible for international students. The university fosters cultural integration through various student associations and inclusive residence spaces, promoting a vibrant and diverse community.

Campus & Location

The main campus of UFS is situated in Bloemfontein, the capital city of the Free State province, known as the "City of Roses." Bloemfontein offers a blend of modern city amenities and a relaxed atmosphere, with recreational, commercial, and educational facilities. The campus itself boasts eco-friendly gardens and world-class infrastructure, along with sports facilities for over 20 sports, medical facilities, and cultural activities. Transportation is accessible, and students can explore local attractions such as the Loch Logan Waterfront, Oliewenhuis Art Gallery, and various historical sites.

Career Outcomes

UFS is committed to producing highly employable graduates who are in demand in the global job market. The university's holistic student support includes career services and leadership development programs to equip students for the evolving world of work. UFS maintains an established network of industry partners and collaborates closely with public and private sectors to ensure its academic programs align with industry needs. While the South African job market can be challenging, UFS actively connects students with opportunities, and its career services have been recognized among the top in the country by employers.

Information for International Students at University of the Free State

University of the Free State in Bloemfontein, South Africa welcomes international students.

• Visa support available
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: English, Afrikaans, Sesotho, IsiZulu

Admissions Requirements for University of the Free State

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of the Free State:

• IELTS minimum: 5.5
• Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
• Application deadline: 30 September 2026

Apply to University of the Free State →

Programs at University of the Free State (97 programs)

University of the Free State offers 97 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (66)

• Engineering Sciences — English · STEM
  This program introduces students to fundamental engineering principles and problem-solving techniques, preparing them for various engineering disciplines or further specialization.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Genetics — English · STEM
  Students explore the study of heredity and variation in living organisms, preparing them for careers in biotechnology, research, or medicine.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Chemistry — English · STEM
  This program provides a foundational understanding of chemical principles and their applications, preparing students for careers in research, industry, or further academic study.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Computer Science and Informatics — English · STEM
  Students learn about the theoretical foundations of information and computation and their practical application in computer systems, preparing them for roles in software development, data analysis, and IT.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Mathematics and Applied Mathematics — English · STEM
  This program covers fundamental mathematical theories and their application to real-world problems, preparing students for careers in finance, data science, engineering, or academia.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Geography — English · STEM
  This program examines the Earth's landscapes, environments, and the relationships between people and their surroundings, leading to careers in environmental management, urban planning, or cartography.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Geology — English · STEM
  Students study the Earth's physical structure, substance, history, and the processes that act on it, preparing them for careers in mining, environmental consulting, or geological surveying.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Plant Sciences — English · STEM
  This program focuses on the study of plant life, including their structure, function, ecology, and economic importance, leading to careers in agriculture, conservation, or botanical research.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Architecture — English · STEM
  This program provides a comprehensive education in architectural design, theory, and technology, preparing students for careers as architects or in related design fields.
  Field: Building Sciences
• Drama and Theatre Arts — English
  This program offers practical and theoretical training in drama, performance, and theatre production, preparing students for careers in acting, directing, stage management, or arts administration.
  Field: Drama and Theatre Arts
• Music — English
  This program offers comprehensive training in music theory, performance, history, and composition, preparing students for careers as musicians, educators, or in the music industry.
  Field: Music
• Bachelor of Commerce (Entrepreneurial Management) (BCom) — English
  Students learn the skills and knowledge required to start and manage new ventures, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset for business creation and innovation.
  Field: Entrepreneurial Management
• Mathematical Statistics and Actuarial Science — English · STEM
  Students develop strong analytical and statistical skills, applying mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk in insurance and finance, leading to careers as actuaries or statisticians.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Animal Science — English · STEM
  Students study the biology, breeding, nutrition, and management of livestock and other animals, preparing them for careers in animal production, veterinary support, or research.
  Field: Agricultural Sciences
• Communication Science — English
  Students study the theories and practices of human communication across various contexts, preparing them for careers in media, public relations, marketing, or corporate communications.
  Field: Communication Science
• Microbiology and Biochemistry — English · STEM
  This program explores the world of microorganisms and the chemical processes within living organisms, preparing students for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or research.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Soil, Crop and Climate Sciences — English · STEM
  This program integrates the study of soil science, crop production, and climatology to address sustainable agricultural practices and food security, leading to careers in farming, research, or environmental management.
  Field: Agricultural Sciences
• Governance and Political Transformation — English
  This program examines political systems, governance structures, and processes of societal change, preparing students for careers in public service, policy analysis, or international relations.
  Field: Governance and Political Transformation
• Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) (BCom) — English
  This program covers marketing principles, consumer behavior, and strategic marketing, preparing students for careers in marketing management, brand management, or sales.
  Field: Marketing
• LLB (LLB) — English
  This undergraduate law degree provides a comprehensive foundation in legal principles and practices, preparing students for a career as a legal professional.
  Field: Law
• Physics — English · STEM
  Students investigate the fundamental laws of nature, from subatomic particles to the cosmos, preparing them for careers in research, engineering, or technology.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Sustainable Food Systems and Development — English · STEM
  Students learn about the complex challenges of food production, distribution, and consumption in a sustainable manner, preparing them for roles in food policy, agricultural development, or sustainable business.
  Field: Agricultural Sciences
• Language Practice — English
  Students develop advanced skills in language analysis, translation, interpreting, and editing, preparing them for careers in language services, communication, or publishing.
  Field: Language Practice
• Social Work — English
  Students gain the knowledge and skills to assist individuals, families, and communities in addressing social challenges and improving well-being, leading to careers as social workers.
  Field: Social Work
• Bachelor of Commerce (Investment Management and Banking) (BCom) — English
  This program focuses on financial markets, investment strategies, and banking operations, preparing students for careers in investment banking, portfolio management, or financial analysis.
  Field: Investment Management and Banking
• Bachelor of Commerce (Law) (BCom) — English
  This interdisciplinary program combines business principles with legal studies, preparing students for careers in corporate law, compliance, or business management with a legal foundation.
  Field: Law
• Zoology and Entomology — English · STEM
  Students explore the diversity, biology, and ecology of animals and insects, preparing them for careers in wildlife conservation, pest management, or biological research.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Quantity Surveying and Construction Management — English · STEM
  Students learn about cost management, financial control, and project management in the construction industry, preparing them for roles as quantity surveyors or construction managers.
  Field: Building Sciences
• Social Sciences Programme — English
  This interdisciplinary program explores human society and social relationships, providing a foundation for careers in research, policy, social work, or community development.
  Field: Social Sciences Programme
• Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management) (BCom) — English
  This program focuses on managing human capital within organizations, covering topics like recruitment, training, and employee relations, preparing students for HR roles.
  Field: Human Resource Management
• Agricultural Economics — English · STEM
  This program applies economic principles to the agricultural sector, covering topics like farm management, food policy, and rural development, preparing students for roles in agribusiness or government.
  Field: Agricultural Sciences
• BA Programme (BA) — English
  This broad undergraduate program allows students to explore various disciplines within the humanities, developing critical thinking and communication skills for diverse career paths.
  Field: BA Programme
• Fine Arts — English
  Students develop their artistic skills and critical understanding across various visual art forms, preparing them for careers as artists, art educators, or in creative industries.
  Field: Fine Arts
• Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) (BCom) — English
  Students gain a deep understanding of economic theories, models, and policies, preparing them for careers as economists, analysts, or in public policy.
  Field: Economics
• Chemistry — English · STEM
  This program provides a foundational understanding of chemical principles and their applications, preparing students for careers in research, industry, or further academic study.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Computer Science and Informatics — English · STEM
  Students learn about the theoretical foundations of information and computation and their practical application in computer systems, preparing them for roles in software development, data analysis, and IT.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Mathematics and Applied Mathematics — English · STEM
  This program covers fundamental mathematical theories and their application to real-world problems, preparing students for careers in finance, data science, engineering, or academia.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Geography — English · STEM
  This program examines the Earth's landscapes, environments, and the relationships between people and their surroundings, leading to careers in environmental management, urban planning, or cartography.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Geology — English · STEM
  Students study the Earth's physical structure, substance, history, and the processes that act on it, preparing them for careers in mining, environmental consulting, or geological surveying.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Plant Sciences — English · STEM
  This program focuses on the study of plant life, including their structure, function, ecology, and economic importance, leading to careers in agriculture, conservation, or botanical research.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Architecture — English · STEM
  This program provides a comprehensive education in architectural design, theory, and technology, preparing students for careers as architects or in related design fields.
  Field: Building Sciences
• Drama and Theatre Arts — English
  This program offers practical and theoretical training in drama, performance, and theatre production, preparing students for careers in acting, directing, stage management, or arts administration.
  Field: Drama and Theatre Arts
• Music — English
  This program offers comprehensive training in music theory, performance, history, and composition, preparing students for careers as musicians, educators, or in the music industry.
  Field: Music
• Bachelor of Commerce (Entrepreneurial Management) (BCom) — English
  Students learn the skills and knowledge required to start and manage new ventures, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset for business creation and innovation.
  Field: Entrepreneurial Management
• Mathematical Statistics and Actuarial Science — English · STEM
  Students develop strong analytical and statistical skills, applying mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk in insurance and finance, leading to careers as actuaries or statisticians.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Animal Science — English · STEM
  Students study the biology, breeding, nutrition, and management of livestock and other animals, preparing them for careers in animal production, veterinary support, or research.
  Field: Agricultural Sciences
• Communication Science — English
  Students study the theories and practices of human communication across various contexts, preparing them for careers in media, public relations, marketing, or corporate communications.
  Field: Communication Science
• Microbiology and Biochemistry — English · STEM
  This program explores the world of microorganisms and the chemical processes within living organisms, preparing students for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or research.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Soil, Crop and Climate Sciences — English · STEM
  This program integrates the study of soil science, crop production, and climatology to address sustainable agricultural practices and food security, leading to careers in farming, research, or environmental management.
  Field: Agricultural Sciences
• Governance and Political Transformation — English
  This program examines political systems, governance structures, and processes of societal change, preparing students for careers in public service, policy analysis, or international relations.
  Field: Governance and Political Transformation
• Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) (BCom) — English
  This program covers marketing principles, consumer behavior, and strategic marketing, preparing students for careers in marketing management, brand management, or sales.
  Field: Marketing
• LLB (LLB) — English
  This undergraduate law degree provides a comprehensive foundation in legal principles and practices, preparing students for a career as a legal professional.
  Field: Law
• Physics — English · STEM
  Students investigate the fundamental laws of nature, from subatomic particles to the cosmos, preparing them for careers in research, engineering, or technology.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Sustainable Food Systems and Development — English · STEM
  Students learn about the complex challenges of food production, distribution, and consumption in a sustainable manner, preparing them for roles in food policy, agricultural development, or sustainable business.
  Field: Agricultural Sciences
• Language Practice — English
  Students develop advanced skills in language analysis, translation, interpreting, and editing, preparing them for careers in language services, communication, or publishing.
  Field: Language Practice
• Social Work — English
  Students gain the knowledge and skills to assist individuals, families, and communities in addressing social challenges and improving well-being, leading to careers as social workers.
  Field: Social Work
• Bachelor of Commerce (Investment Management and Banking) (BCom) — English
  This program focuses on financial markets, investment strategies, and banking operations, preparing students for careers in investment banking, portfolio management, or financial analysis.
  Field: Investment Management and Banking
• Bachelor of Commerce (Law) (BCom) — English
  This interdisciplinary program combines business principles with legal studies, preparing students for careers in corporate law, compliance, or business management with a legal foundation.
  Field: Law
• Zoology and Entomology — English · STEM
  Students explore the diversity, biology, and ecology of animals and insects, preparing them for careers in wildlife conservation, pest management, or biological research.
  Field: Natural Sciences
• Quantity Surveying and Construction Management — English · STEM
  Students learn about cost management, financial control, and project management in the construction industry, preparing them for roles as quantity surveyors or construction managers.
  Field: Building Sciences
• Social Sciences Programme — English
  This interdisciplinary program explores human society and social relationships, providing a foundation for careers in research, policy, social work, or community development.
  Field: Social Sciences Programme
• Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management) (BCom) — English
  This program focuses on managing human capital within organizations, covering topics like recruitment, training, and employee relations, preparing students for HR roles.
  Field: Human Resource Management
• Agricultural Economics — English · STEM
  This program applies economic principles to the agricultural sector, covering topics like farm management, food policy, and rural development, preparing students for roles in agribusiness or government.
  Field: Agricultural Sciences
• BA Programme (BA) — English
  This broad undergraduate program allows students to explore various disciplines within the humanities, developing critical thinking and communication skills for diverse career paths.
  Field: BA Programme
• Fine Arts — English
  Students develop their artistic skills and critical understanding across various visual art forms, preparing them for careers as artists, art educators, or in creative industries.
  Field: Fine Arts
• Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) (BCom) — English
  Students gain a deep understanding of economic theories, models, and policies, preparing them for careers as economists, analysts, or in public policy.
  Field: Economics

Master Programs (18)

• LLM (LLM) — English
  This postgraduate law degree allows for specialized study in a particular area of law, enhancing legal expertise for advanced practice or academic pursuits.
  Field: Law
• Honours in Business Management — English
  This program offers advanced study in business management principles and practices, enhancing leadership and strategic decision-making skills for management roles.
  Field: Business Management
• Bachelor of Education Honours (Early Childhood Development and Learning) (BEdHons) — 12 months · English
  This program focuses on the holistic development and learning of young children, preparing educators for specialized roles in early childhood education and intervention.
  Field: Early Childhood Development and Learning
• Interdisciplinary Master of Human Rights (MA) — English
  This program provides an advanced understanding of human rights principles, law, and advocacy from an interdisciplinary perspective, preparing students for roles in NGOs, international organizations, or government.
  Field: Human Rights
• Bachelor of Education Honours (Management and Governance) (BEdHons) — 12 months · English
  This honours program focuses on leadership, management, and governance within educational institutions, preparing educators for leadership roles in schools or educational administration.
  Field: Management and Governance
• Honours in Marketing — English
  This postgraduate program provides advanced knowledge and research skills in marketing, preparing students for specialized marketing roles or further academic study.
  Field: Marketing
• Bachelor of Education Honours (Curriculum Studies) (BEdHons) — 12 months · English
  This program provides advanced study in curriculum development, implementation, and evaluation, preparing educators for roles in curriculum design or educational policy.
  Field: Curriculum Studies
• Bachelor of Education Honours (Psychology of Education) (BEdHons) — 12 months · English
  Students explore psychological theories and their application to educational contexts, enhancing understanding of learning processes and student development for educational psychology roles.
  Field: Psychology of Education
• LLM (LLM) — English
  This postgraduate law degree allows for specialized study in a particular area of law, enhancing legal expertise for advanced practice or academic pursuits.
  Field: Law
• Honours in Business Management — English
  This program offers advanced study in business management principles and practices, enhancing leadership and strategic decision-making skills for management roles.
  Field: Business Management
• Bachelor of Education Honours (Early Childhood Development and Learning) (BEdHons) — 12 months · English
  This program focuses on the holistic development and learning of young children, preparing educators for specialized roles in early childhood education and intervention.
  Field: Early Childhood Development and Learning
• Interdisciplinary Master of Human Rights (MA) — English
  This program provides an advanced understanding of human rights principles, law, and advocacy from an interdisciplinary perspective, preparing students for roles in NGOs, international organizations, or government.
  Field: Human Rights
• Bachelor of Education Honours (Management and Governance) (BEdHons) — 12 months · English
  This honours program focuses on leadership, management, and governance within educational institutions, preparing educators for leadership roles in schools or educational administration.
  Field: Management and Governance
• Honours in Marketing — English
  This postgraduate program provides advanced knowledge and research skills in marketing, preparing students for specialized marketing roles or further academic study.
  Field: Marketing
• Bachelor of Education Honours (Curriculum Studies) (BEdHons) — 12 months · English
  This program provides advanced study in curriculum development, implementation, and evaluation, preparing educators for roles in curriculum design or educational policy.
  Field: Curriculum Studies
• Bachelor of Education Honours (Psychology of Education) (BEdHons) — 12 months · English
  Students explore psychological theories and their application to educational contexts, enhancing understanding of learning processes and student development for educational psychology roles.
  Field: Psychology of Education
• Master of Education (MEd) (MEd) — English
  This advanced degree in education allows for specialized study and research in various educational fields, preparing graduates for leadership, research, or advanced teaching roles.
  Field: Education
• Postgraduate Qualifications in Theology and Religion — English
  These postgraduate programs focus on contextual interaction and the development of ministerial skills, preparing students for leadership roles in religious organizations or theological research.
  Field: Theology and Religion

PhD Programs (3)

• LLD (PhD) — English
  This doctoral program in law involves advanced legal research and scholarship, contributing original knowledge to the field of law.
  Field: Law
• LLD (PhD) — English
  This doctoral program in law involves advanced legal research and scholarship, contributing original knowledge to the field of law.
  Field: Law
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education (PhD) — English
  This doctoral program involves rigorous research and scholarly inquiry into educational theories and practices, contributing new knowledge to the field of education.
  Field: Education

Scholarships & Tuition at University of the Free State

Annual tuition for international students: $6,000 – $12,000/year

✅ University of the Free State offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of University of the Free State

• National Ranking: #8 in South Africa
• QS World University Ranking: #1001
• Times Higher Education (THE): #1001
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #901
• Ranking tier: Unranked
• Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at University of the Free State

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Multiple Campuses

Key Highlights

• Multi-campus, Bloemfontein location
• Diverse, welcoming student environment
• Strong research, impactful societal engagement
• Comprehensive international student support
• Seven faculties, wide program array
• Green Futures Hub, interdisciplinary research

Fields of Study at University of the Free State

• Medicine
• Agriculture
• Law
• Humanities
• Education

Notable Alumni

• P. W. Botha
• Hansie Cronje
• Leon Schuster
• Wayde van Niekerk
• Rolene Strauss

Frequently Asked Questions about University of the Free State

Apply to University of the Free State with Abroadly

Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to University of the Free State. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.

Explore Abroadly Features | For Students | For Agencies

Visit University of the Free State Official Website →

Explore More Universities

• All universities in 🇿🇦 South Africa
• Browse all universities on Abroadly