“Welcome wishes to our international students. We are delighted to have you at our institution, whether online or on campus, and hope you experience the best academic year with us. It is a great honour to walk this journey with you.”
    - Thato Tsebe, UBP Ambassador

“Congratulations on starting a new chapter in your life, and welcome to the UFS! This is not only the next step to further carving your career path, but also an opportunity for you to explore who you are, meet different people from all walks of life, share perspectives, and finally find a passion for life that will continuously ignite the fire that burns within you. One of the biggest mistakes you can make, and that the pandemic has actually also highlighted, is that we tend to think that we can do life and school alone. You need a panel of people and friends who will assist you when the going gets tough. People are always willing to help, and professors want you to succeed! Here's to a wholesome new chapter, may it bring immense growth and prosperity!’’
    – Bonolo Lulu Makhalemele, UBP Alumna

“My fellow international brothers and sisters. Firstly, before welcoming you to our university, I would like to welcome you to our beautiful country, South Africa, and thank you for choosing us to advance your knowledge and continue your studies. We hope that you will enjoy and create beautiful and lasting memories to take back home. Secondly, welcome to the International Office and the University of the Free State. Without a doubt you could have gone to any university, but you chose us … and we promise that you will never regret your decision. We also promise to ensure that you get the best education you can get, and the best experiences of our university, to make it worth your trouble to get here. Welcome to our university – we hope you are just as happy to be here as we are to have you here.”
    - Lekiti Rantsane, UBP Ambassador

“Dear new international students. Last year was a roller coaster that taught us to never take life for granted. We are glad that you have decided to make the UFS part of your precious life. Prepare yourselves for an adventure and be open-minded in learning about our fascinating country with its vibrant cultures. It may seem overwhelming at first, but don't worry, we will be there with you every step of the way.”
    - Luyanda Sibiloane, UBP Ambassador

“A wise man once built a house on stone, while his peers built on sand. To no surprise, the peers' houses built on sand collapsed as Mother Nature roared with thunder. The key to the durability of the house on stone was a solid foundation. Congratulations on deciding to pave your foundation for a solid career with the University of the Free State. The key to this foundation consists of academic excellence, contribution to the institution's societal, political, and cultural spectrum, among other spectrums. I wish you a progressive journey at the UFS.”
    - Simba David Matema, SRC International Student Council 2019/20

“We hope you will enjoy your time at the University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, and South Africa at large. Believe me when I say you have made the best choice and are about to experience the best time of your life. You are here for academics, but please do not be afraid to socialise and try new things, as you will meet different people and learn more about yourself. In short, have fun, make friends and memories, chow course and in a few months’ time you will understand why we say, “Only a Kovsie knows the feeling.”
    - Moyahabo Koketso Moila, UBP Ambassador