UFH Requirements

The University of Fort Hare (UFH) is a prestigious institution in South Africa, known for its commitment to academic excellence and producing influential alumni. If you’re planning to apply to UFH, understanding its admission requirements is critical. This guide will walk you through the minimum criteria and program-specific expectations to ensure a smooth application process.

General Admission Requirements for UFH

To gain entry into the University of Fort Hare, applicants must meet these baseline qualifications:

  1. National Senior Certificate (NSC)
    • The NSC must be certified by Umalusi, South Africa’s quality assurance body.
  2. Achievement Ratings in Subjects
    • You must have an achievement rating of 4 (50–59%) or better in at least four subjects from the designated 20-credit NSC subject list.
  3. English Proficiency
    • A minimum level 3 in English Home Language is required.
  4. Additional Program-Specific Requirements
    • Some programs may demand higher scores or additional qualifications.
    • For instance, the minimum Admission Points Score (APS) for a law degree is:
      • 26 with Mathematics
      • 28 with Mathematical Literacy or Technical Mathematics

Admission for Non-South African Applicants

Applicants holding non-South African school-leaving certificates must obtain a matriculation exemption certificate, a critical document issued by the Matriculation Board.

Financial Aid and Funding Opportunities

UFH provides financial aid to eligible students through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

  • Students must reapply annually for NSFAS funding.
  • The awarded aid amount is determined through the NSFAS means test, which evaluates your financial need.

Tips for a Successful Application

  1. Understand Program-Specific APS Requirements
    Each program at UFH may have unique admission criteria. Research these requirements carefully on the UFH website or contact the admissions office for clarification.
  2. Prepare Early
    • Gather all necessary documentation well before the application deadline.
    • If you’re a non-South African applicant, ensure you start the matriculation exemption process early to avoid delays.
  3. Leverage Financial Aid
    If you need financial assistance, ensure you complete your NSFAS application accurately and on time. Familiarize yourself with the supporting documents required for NSFAS applications.
  4. Stay Updated
    The University of Fort Hare may revise its requirements or add new programs. Regularly check the official UFH website for updates.

Why Choose UFH?

The University of Fort Hare is a hub of intellectual growth and opportunity. Its diverse range of programs, historical significance, and commitment to student success make it a standout choice for higher education in South Africa.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.