UFS 2026 Registration Guide & Dates

The University of the Free State (UFS) has officially kicked off the 2026 academic year with the opening of registrations. Whether you’re a first-year newcomer or a returning postgrad, navigating the UFS registration process correctly is essential to secure your place and start the year without hiccups.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the full registration journey from payment and module selection to downloading your timetable so you can register confidently and without delays.

When Does UFS Registration for 2026 Open?

Online registrations at UFS open on 2 January 2026 for all student categories. While specific closing dates vary by programme and semester, here are the important academic start dates to diarise:

• First-semester classes: Begin on 9 February 2026
• Second-semester classes: Commence on 13 July 2026

Be sure to check your faculty’s calendar to avoid missing your deadline.

ALSO READ: University of Cape Town 2026 Registration Guide & Dates

Who Needs to Register?

Every student at UFS,regardless of level or programme, must complete registration. This includes:

• First-time undergraduate students
• Returning undergraduate students
• Honours, Master’s, and PhD candidates
• Students in extended and mainstream programmes
• International students

Each group has specific requirements, so follow the guide relevant to your level of study, available via the UFS Registration Portal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Register at UFS in 2026

Step 1: Review the Official Registration Info

Start by visiting the UFS registration page to familiarise yourself with university rules, academic calendars, faculty-specific requirements, and critical deadlines.

Step 2: Submit Your Online Registration

Once ready, log in to the PeopleSoft Campus Solutions portal and complete the Registration Activity Guide.

Note: Even if your payment hasn’t been processed yet, you must still complete this online step to begin the registration process.

Students with disabilities: Contact the Centre for Universal Access and Disability Support (CUADS) at cuads@ufs.ac.za to apply for learning or exam accommodations early on.

First Payment Rules: What You Need to Know

For Financial Aid Students (NSFAS / Bursaries / Loans)

If your tuition is fully covered by NSFAS, a bursary, or a loan, and you have no outstanding debt on your account, you can register without making an upfront payment.

For Self-Funded Students

You’ll need to make a first payment at least five working days before registering. You can pay using:

• EFT to UFS’s ABSA account
• Online card payments via the Student Finance portal
• On-campus cashiers at your respective campus

Use the UFS Quote Generator to get an accurate estimate of your fees before paying.

Academic & Curriculum Support

Selecting the right modules is crucial, especially for students new to UFS.

First-Year Students Must:

• Register for Critical Academic Literacies (CAL)
• Take the Academic Literacy Test (AL Test)
• Enrol in the UFSS (First-Year Seminar) module

Be sure to consult your faculty’s rulebook and seek advice from academic advisers if you’re uncertain about module choices.

Senior and Postgrad Students

Check your academic progress and eligibility before selecting modules. Your choices may affect your funding, bursaries, or programme progression.

Need academic advice? Contact the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) for guidance.

Download Your Student Documents

Once your registration is processed, download the following from the Student Self-Service portal:

• Proof of Registration
• Personal Class Timetable
• Detailed Module Schedule

These documents are essential for course planning, funding, and access to classes.

Blackboard Access: Confirming Your Modules

After registration is finalised, your modules should appear on Blackboard within 24 hours. If they’re missing, contact the Educational Technology Support Desk at ehelpdesk@ufs.ac.za to resolve the issue.

Accommodation & Student Cards

Need campus housing? Contact the appropriate residence application office:

• Bloemfontein Campus: resapplications@ufs.ac.za
• QwaQwa Campus: res_infoqc@ufs.ac.za
• South Campus: SCResApplications@ufs.ac.za

Once registered, you can apply for your official UFS student card through the Card Division.

Special Note for Postgraduate Students

Registration works slightly differently for postgraduate programmes:

• Research students (Master’s/PhD) can register throughout the year.
• If you’re submitting a thesis or dissertation, registration timing will depend on when your final results are recorded.
• Late submissions may result in full fees being charged again, so plan accordingly.

“We advise students to confirm their academic status with their supervisors before registering,” says Naomi Haupt, Deputy Director of Student Administration at UFS.

For bursary opportunities, contact the Centre for Graduate Support to explore funding options such as NRF, merSETA, and UFS internal bursaries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Registration Checklist 2026

Before wrapping up your registration, make sure you’ve:

Read your faculty rulebook
Secured financial clearance or made the first payment
Completed your registration request online
Chosen and confirmed your modules
Booked assessments like the AL Test (if applicable)
Downloaded proof of registration, timetable, and schedule
Applied for housing (if needed)
Requested a student card

Make Your UFS Registration Seamless in 2026

UFS has streamlined its 2026 registration process to be as smooth as possible, but success still depends on early planning and staying informed. By understanding the process and using the tools and support available, you’ll be well on your way to a productive academic year.

Whether you’re entering university life for the first time or continuing your postgraduate journey, proper registration is the essential first step. Don’t leave it to the last minute; prepare now and avoid unnecessary stress.