UFS blackboard is the official online learning portal for University of the Free State students which is part of student self-service which allows you access to your academic records, exam results time tables and more.
If you’re wondering what blackboard means, here’s a brief definition below.
Blackboard Learn is a virtual learning environment and course management system developed by Blackboard Inc. It is an online learning management system, where you will find study material and assessments on your registered modules.
It is Web-based server software which features course management, customizable open architecture, and scalable design that allows integration with student information systems and authentication protocols.
Blackboard learning management system allows faculty to add resources for students to access online.
PowerPoint, Captivate, video, audio, animation, and other applications are created outside of Blackboard and added into Blackboard courses for students to enhance teaching and learning efforts.
How to access UFS Blackboard
Note that this is the same login credentials used by staff to browse the internet, intranet and log into their email address, and used by students to browse the internet and log into their UFS4life email address.
You will only find newly registered modules on the platform after 24 hours. Not all lecturers make use of Blackboard for additional study guides. Talk to the relevant lecturer or look in your study guide if you want to know if a specific module is available on Blackboard.
If the modules you registered for are not on Blackboard, notify the Blackboard Helpdesk at the Central Computer Laboratory (next to the Sasol Library). Or contact the helpdesk at +27 051 401 9452 for assistance with uploading your modules onto Blackboard, or for other Blackboard-related queries.
To access the UFS Blackboard system, click on the following link: learn.ufs.ac.za. Or go to the UFS self-service website and click on the blackboard link to log in.
To log in, use your campus username and password.
Blackboard learn UFS help desk
If you experience any problems with Blackboard, don’t hesitate to contact for help via:
Tel: +27 51 401 9452
Email: ehelpdesk@ufs.ac.za
You can also comment below any question you have in mind about the portal.
How to reset password
If you’re a staff or student and cannot access blackboard learn UFS due to forgotten password, you can easily change your password online at UFS student portal using their Challenge-Response answers.
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.