UFH 2026 Applications: How to Apply and Key Dates

If you're thinking about applying to the University of Fort Hare (UFH) for 2026, it's important to know how the application process works. This includes the application closing dates, financial aid options, accommodation, available courses, and admission requirements.

In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know—from when applications open to how you can check your application status.

Let’s get started!

UFH 2026 Applications: How to Apply and Key Dates

About the University of Fort Hare (UFH)

The University of Fort Hare (UFH) is one of the oldest and most respected universities in South Africa. It is known for providing high-quality education and producing great leaders who have made a difference in the country and the world. Many well-known figures, including Nelson Mandela, studied at UFH.

History and Reputation

UFH was established in 1916 and has a strong history of excellence in education. It started as a place where black students could get a university education when few opportunities were available. Over the years, it has grown into a modern university that welcomes students from different backgrounds and countries.

Campuses

UFH has three campuses:

• Alice Campus (Main Campus) – This is where the university started. It has most of the academic buildings and student residences.
• East London Campus – Located in a city, this campus offers many courses and is more urban.
• Bhisho Campus – This campus focuses mainly on public administration and government studies.

UFH 2026 Application Opening and Closing Dates

Keeping track of application deadlines is essential to secure your place at UFH for the 2026 academic year. Here are the important dates you need to know:

Undergraduate Applications

• Opening Date: 1 June 2025
  Applications for undergraduate courses at UFH will open on this date. Start preparing early to ensure you have all the required documents ready when the application portal opens.
• Closing Date: 31 October 2025
  Make sure to submit your application before this deadline to avoid any last-minute problems.

Postgraduate Applications

• Ongoing for the 2025 Academic Year
  Applications for postgraduate programs are already open and will continue throughout the 2025 academic year. If you're applying for 2026, be sure to check the UFH website for any updates on deadlines or specific requirements.

Mark these dates on your calendar so you don’t miss your chance to study at UFH!

Who Can Apply at UFH?

The University of Fort Hare (UFH) welcomes both local and international students to apply for their undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Here’s who can apply:

• South African Students: If you have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification, you can apply.
• International Students: If you have a qualification from another country, you can also apply. However, you may need to meet extra requirements and submit additional documents, such as a USAf Exemption Certificate or a SAQA evaluation of your foreign qualification.

Make sure to check the specific requirements before applying!

Faculties and Courses Offered at UFH

The University of Fort Hare (UFH) offers a diverse range of academic courses across various fields of study. Whether you’re interested in health sciences, law, or agriculture, UFH provides high-quality education through its different faculties. Below is an overview of the faculties and some of the popular courses they offer:

1. Health Sciences

UFH’s Faculty of Health Sciences is renowned for producing skilled healthcare professionals. Courses in this faculty include:

• Bachelor of Nursing
• Bachelor of Pharmacy
• Bachelor of Clinical Medical Practice
• Bachelor of Dental Surgery
• Bachelor of Medical Sciences

These courses prepare students for careers in healthcare, with a strong emphasis on practical training and community health.

2. Management and Commerce

The Faculty of Management and Commerce offers courses designed to equip students with business and management skills. Popular courses include:

• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
• Bachelor of Accounting
• Bachelor of Economics
• Bachelor of Marketing
• Diploma in Human Resource Management

These courses are ideal for students aspiring to work in business, finance, and economics, with a focus on leadership and entrepreneurship.

3. Education

UFH’s Faculty of Education is committed to developing future educators and leaders in the field of education. Key courses offered are:

• Bachelor of Education (BEd)
• Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase
• Bachelor of Education in Intermediate and Senior Phase
• Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

These courses provide aspiring teachers with the necessary skills to work in schools, educational institutions, and other educational settings.

4. Law

The Faculty of Law at UFH is one of the oldest and most prestigious law schools in South Africa. It offers:

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Law
• Master of Laws (LLM)

The Faculty of Law prepares students for legal careers, offering courses that cover both theoretical and practical aspects of law, including commercial, criminal, and constitutional law.

5. Social Sciences and Humanities

UFH’s Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities provides programs that focus on understanding human behavior, societies, and cultures. Courses include:

• Bachelor of Social Work
• Bachelor of Psychology
• Bachelor of Sociology
• Bachelor of Public Administration
• Bachelor of Political Science

This faculty is ideal for students interested in careers in social services, psychology, politics, and public administration.

6. Science and Agriculture

The Faculty of Science and Agriculture at UFH offers a strong foundation in both scientific research and practical application. Popular courses include:

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Environmental Science
• Bachelor of Agricultural Management
• Bachelor of Science in Biology
• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
• Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics

These courses are designed for students interested in careers in agriculture, environmental science, and research, with an emphasis on sustainable practices.

UFH Admission Requirements

When applying to the University of Fort Hare (UFH), it’s important to understand the specific admission requirements for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Below are the detailed requirements for each category:

Undergraduate Qualifications

To be considered for an undergraduate course at UFH, prospective students must meet the following minimum admission requirements:

• National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent school-leaving qualification with appropriate subject combinations and levels of achievement.
• The minimum requirements for admission into Bachelor's degrees are:
  • An achievement rating of 4 (50–59%) or higher in English Home Language or English 1st Additional Language
  • An achievement rating of 4 (50–59%) or higher in four subjects, plus an achievement rating of 2 (30-39%) or higher in one subject
  • An achievement rating of 4 (50–59%) or higher in Life Orientation

Minimum Admission Point Score (APS): The minimum APS for undergraduate admissions is 26 points or higher, depending on the specific course.
Calculate your APS here

Please note that certain UFH Faculties may have higher minimum entry requirements and specific pass level requirements for different courses.

Postgraduate Qualifications

Admission requirements for Honours, Masters, and Doctorate courses at UFH vary by faculty and specific program of study. Below are some general requirements:

• Some faculties may require a minimum average mark in the relevant undergraduate qualification.
• Specific courses may require certain majors or registration with professional bodies.
• For detailed information, refer to the postgraduate admission requirements for each faculty:
  • Faculty of Law
  • Faculty of Science and Agriculture
  • Faculty of Management and Commerce
  • Faculty of Health Sciences
  • Faculty of Education
  • Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities

How to Apply to UFH for 2026

The application process for UFH is straightforward, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to ensure your application is complete. Below is a guide for both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants:

Undergraduate Applications

Welcome to your first step towards becoming a student at the University of Fort Hare! Here’s how to start your application:

Get Ready to Apply

• Make sure you have a valid email address (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo) to create an account.
• Prepare for the application by checking the minimum admission requirements for your chosen courses using the UFH APS Calculator.
  Check Eligibility here
  View Admission Requirements here

Pay the Application Fee
The application fee for undergraduate courses is R120.
Use your ID number as the reference when making the payment.
 

Prepare the Required Documents
Ensure you have the following documents ready as separate PDF attachments:

• Proof of payment of the application fee
• Certified copy of your ID (or passport if you're an international student)
• Certified copy of your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Grade 12 mid-year results (for current Grade 12 students)
• A signed Guardian Consent Form if you're under 18 years old
  Download the consent form here

Start the Application Process
Visit the UFH Online Application Portal to begin your application.

Postgraduate Applications

For postgraduate students, the application process is similar, but there are additional steps depending on your course. Here's how to apply:

Get Ready to Apply

• Ensure you have a valid email address to create an account and check eligibility for your chosen postgraduate course.
• Review the minimum admission requirements for your specific course on the UFH website.
  View Admission Requirements here

Pay the Application Fee
The application fee for postgraduate programs is also R120. Follow the same banking details as for undergraduate applications.

Prepare the Required Documents
For postgraduate applicants, prepare the following:

• Proof of payment for the application fee
• Certified copy of your ID or passport
• Certified copies of your previous qualifications
• SAQA verification certificate for international qualifications (if applicable)
• Any other program-specific documents (e.g., research proposal, portfolio, etc.)

Start the Application Process
Visit the UFH Online Application Portal to begin your postgraduate application.

UFH Application Checklist

To ensure your application is processed smoothly, make sure you’ve prepared the following:

• Valid email address
• Certified and individually scanned documents (ensure each document is in PDF format, not exceeding 512KB in size)
• Proof of payment for the application fee
• Certified copy of your ID and/or National Senior Certificate or equivalent
• Consent form (if under 18 years old)

Tracking Your UFH Application Status

Once you’ve submitted your application to the University of Fort Hare (UFH), it’s important to keep track of its progress. UFH provides a simple and convenient way for applicants to check the status of their applications. Here’s how you can track your application:

1. Visit the UFH Online Application Portal

To track your application status, visit the UFH Online Application Portal:
UFH Application Portal

2. Log in with Your Details

You will need to use the login credentials (such as your ID number or application reference) that were provided to you when you submitted your application. This information was sent to your registered email address after you completed the online application.

3. Check for Updates

Once logged in, you can check the following:

• Application Status: Whether your application is still being processed or if a decision has been made.
• Document Status: See if all required documents have been successfully uploaded and processed.
• Admission Decision: Once your application is reviewed, the portal will reflect if you have been accepted, placed on a waiting list, or rejected.

4. Notifications

UFH may send you notifications via email about important updates regarding your application. These could include reminders to upload documents or notifications if you are missing any required information.

5. Contact the Admissions Office

If you encounter any issues or cannot find information about your application, you can contact the UFH Admissions Office for assistance. You can reach them at:

• Email: [email protected]

Tracking your application status is essential to ensure everything is in order and to avoid missing any crucial deadlines or notifications.

Conclusion

The University of Fort Hare (UFH) offers a diverse range of courses, opportunities, and support systems designed to ensure that students have a fulfilling and successful academic journey. Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate course, the process is straightforward with clear deadlines and a comprehensive checklist to guide you every step of the way.

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