Welcome, International Students

Your one-stop guide to a smooth, supported start to the academic year.

The University of the Free State (UFS) proudly welcomes international students to its diverse and vibrant academic community. This page provides all the information you need to register successfully for the 2026 academic year, including visa requirements, financial guidelines, and support contacts.

Before you register

Before You Register

To register successfully, please make sure that:

Your study visa and medical aid are valid and approved for the full academic year.
You have paid the first payment or submitted proof of payment at least five working days before registration.
Your UFS account shows a zero balance, with no outstanding historic debt.

Registration is only complete once you receive your official Proof of Registration document.

What to do next

Registration Steps

STEP 1

Contact the Office for International Affairs (OIA)

Before you begin, contact the OIA to confirm that all your visa and documentation requirements are met.

Email: oiastudentadmin@ufs.ac.za
Phone: +27 51 401 9032

STEP 2

Complete Your Online Registration

Follow the prompts to complete your registration and accept the student terms and conditions.

STEP 3

Submit Your Documents

Email the following documents to oiastudentadmin@ufs.ac.za:

▪ Certified copy of passport
▪ Valid study visa
▪ Proof of medical aid (registered in South Africa)
▪ Proof of payment for first fee instalment

STEP 4

Download Your Proof of Registration

Once your registration and documents have been processed, download your official Proof of Registration from Kovsielife Student Self-Service.

Fees and Funding

Regardless of your study level, please take note:

Your 2025 account balance must be zero before registration.
The first payment is due five (5) working days before registration.
NSFAS and fully funded students are exempt only if funding is confirmed and covers all study costs.
International students must pay the first payment regardless of funding.

Student Finance Financial Aid