The University of the Free State (UFS) has officially opened UFS Registrations 2026, marking the start of an academic journey for thousands of students. Whether you’re a first-year, senior, or postgraduate student, it’s essential to understand the registration process to avoid delays and missed opportunities.
- When Do UFS Registrations 2026 Start?
- Who Needs to Register?
- Step-by-Step UFS Registration Process (2026)
- First Payment Requirements for UFS Registrations 2026
- Academic and Curriculum Advising
- Download Essential Student Documents
- Confirm Modules on Blackboard
- Accommodation and Student Cards
- Postgraduate-Specific Information
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Final Checklist for UFS Registrations 2026
- Make UFS Registrations 2026 Smooth and Stress-Free
This guide covers all key steps, from financial clearance and academic advice to module selection and downloading materials.
When Do UFS Registrations 2026 Start?
Online registration at UFS opens on 2 January 2026 for all students. Final deadlines vary by programme and semester, but first-semester classes begin on 9 February 2026, and second-semester classes start on 13 July 2026.
Who Needs to Register?
All prospective and returning students must register, including:
- First-time undergraduate students
- Senior undergraduate students
- Honours, master’s, and doctoral students
- Students in extended or mainstream programmes
- International students
Each group follows a tailored set of steps outlined by UFS in their respective guides.
RELATED: UCT 2026 Registration Guide: Key Dates, Steps & What You Must Know
Step-by-Step UFS Registration Process (2026)
Step 1 – Read Registration Information
Before starting, visit the official UFS registration website to review essential rules, deadlines, and faculty requirements.
Step 2 – Submit Your Registration Request
Log into the PeopleSoft Campus Solutions portal to complete the Registration Activity Guide. You must complete this step even if you haven’t yet made your first payment.
Note: Students with disabilities should contact CUADS at cuads@ufs.ac.za to apply for academic accommodations.
First Payment Requirements for UFS Registrations 2026
Financial Aid Students
If you have confirmed NSFAS, bursary, or loan funding that covers your entire academic year, you’re exempt from making the first payment—provided there’s no debt on your account.
Self-Paying Students
You must pay your first instalment at least five working days before registration. Payment options include:
- EFT (ABSA account)
- Online card payment via Student Finance Portal
- On-campus cashiers
For official quotes, visit the UFS Quote Generator.
Academic and Curriculum Advising
Students unsure about module selections must consult faculty rulebooks and advisers. First-year students should:
- Register for Critical Academic Literacies (CAL)
- Sign up for the Academic Literacy Test (AL Test)
- Enrol in the First-Year Seminar (UFSS) module
For seniors and postgrads, module confirmations and progress reports may affect funding or eligibility for registration.
Tip: For support, contact the Centre for Teaching and Learning for general academic advice.
Download Essential Student Documents
Once registration is complete, you must download:
- Proof of Registration
- Class Timetable
- Module Schedule
These are available via the Student Self-Service portal.
Confirm Modules on Blackboard
Within 24 hours of finalising your registration, your modules should reflect on Blackboard. If they don’t, contact the Educational Technology Support Desk at ehelpdesk@ufs.ac.za.
Accommodation and Student Cards
- For housing, email:
- Bloemfontein: resapplications@ufs.ac.za
- QwaQwa: res_infoqc@ufs.ac.za
- South Campus: SCResApplications@ufs.ac.za
- For student cards, contact the Card Division after completing your enrolment.
Postgraduate-Specific Information
Postgrad registration is slightly different:
- Master’s and PhD students may register throughout the year for research programmes.
- If submitting a thesis/dissertation, registration depends on when results are captured. Missing deadlines could mean paying full tuition again.
“We advise students to contact their academic supervisors and confirm their programme status before registering,” says Naomi Haupt, Deputy Director for Student Admin at UFS.
For funding, postgraduate students should consult the Centre for Graduate Support to apply for NRF, merSETA, and UFS bursaries.
RELATED: Wits University Registration 2026 – Dates & Key Info
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I register without making the first payment?
Yes, but your registration is only provisional until payment is received or funding is confirmed.
What happens if I miss the registration deadline?
You may face late penalties or lose your place. It’s crucial to register early and resolve any holds on your record.
How do I know if I’m registered?
Once approved, you’ll receive official proof of registration via the student portal.
Final Checklist for UFS Registrations 2026
Review faculty rulebooks
Check financial clearance and make the first payment (if required)
Submit registration request online
Confirm modules and test sign-ups
Download proof of registration and timetables
Access study material on Blackboard
Apply for housing if needed
Request a student card
Make UFS Registrations 2026 Smooth and Stress-Free
The UFS Registrations 2026 process is well-structured, but success lies in early preparation. Read your faculty guide, keep tabs on dates, and use the support channels available. Whether you’re just starting or returning for postgrad studies, proper registration is the first step toward achieving academic success at UFS.
