Fort Hare online application for 2026: A step-by-step guide

Fort Hare online application for 2026: A step-by-step guide

The University of Fort Hare, popularly known as Fort Hare or UFH, is a South African public university in Alice, Eastern Cape. It has several digital platforms for administrative and academic processes. The Fort Hare online application can be done through its official university website. Prospective students looking to join the institution should familiarize themselves with the process to understand how to apply.

Fort Hare University logo and the campus students.
Fort Hare University logo (L) and the campus students (R). Photo: @UFH (modified by author)
Source: Facebook

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Key takeaways

  • Fort Hare has a well-laid-out application process done online.
  • They currently do not accept manual applications.
  • Applications for undergraduate programs for the 2026/27 academic year are expected to commence in May 2026.
  • Applicants apply through the UFH application portal.

Fort Hare online application for 2026

Here is a quick look at everything you need to know about the University of Fort Hare's online application process for 2026.

Is UFH still open for 2026 applications?

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Yes, the university's application cycle for 2026 is open for select programmes.

Which applications are still open for 2026?

Fort Hare has reopened the admissions portal for specific programmes under the Faculty of Science and Agriculture and the Faculty of Management and Commerce in 2026.

How much is the application fee for the University of Fort Hare?

The University of Fort Hare's fee is R120, and international students are required to pay R500. The amount is non-refundable.

University of Fort Hare online application 2026 opening and closing date

Specific, universal closing dates for undergraduate programmes in 2026 are not listed; applications are subject to space availability and are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Typically, applications open around May/June of the preceding year for which you want to apply.

Fort Hare late application status

The university does not encourage prospective students to submit late applications. However, the institution may consider late applications, depending on the availability of slots. Usually, it admits students on a first-come, first-served basis as long as applicants meet the entry requirements.

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Step-by-step application guide

Here is a look at Fort Hare's application process for local and international students.

Online application process

  • Visit the Fort Hare website and click Online Services at the bottom of the page.
  • Click Apply Now on the dashboard.
  • An online application form will appear on your screen. You will be redirected to the Student iEnabler platform, where you should create an account.
  • Fill out the form, ensuring all details are correct.
  • Click the apply button and await feedback from the institution.

Manual application process

Although the university has since moved away from the manual process, here are the key steps involved during the manual application process.

  • Visit the Fort Hare website and download the forms related to your level of study. The page has undergraduate and postgraduate forms for South African, international, and returning students.
  • Ensure you meet all the entry requirements and then fill out the form.
  • Be sure to attach all the relevant documents.
  • You will receive a text message informing you that your form has been received.
  • After a while, you will receive an SMS confirming your acceptance into the institution.
  • Students who qualify based on their grade 12 midterm exams are admitted provisionally pending the submission of their results.
  • All successful applicants will receive two documents: an admission letter and a university registration guide. The latter will have important information regarding the orientation program and the registration dates.

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Where do you send your UFH application form?

Once you fill out your application forms and attach all documents required, you should send them to 1 King Williams Town Road, Private Bag X1314, Alice 5700.

Additional information for international students

All potential students with foreign leaving certificates must acquire a matriculation exemption certificate to qualify for admission into Fort Hare.

Additional information about the certificate can be obtained at the Matriculation Board's website. Moreover, all applicants aged under 18 must submit a declaration by their parent or guardian.

Fort Hare status check

If you have been wondering how to check your application status at Fort Hare, you should use the Student iEnabler platform. Enter your Fort Hare login details. You can view your UFH online application status for 2026 once you log in.

What are the faculties at Fort Hare?

Here are the six faculties at the institution.

  • Faculty of Education
  • Faculty of Health Sciences
  • Faculty of Management and Commerce
  • Faculty of Science and Agriculture
  • Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities
  • The Nelson R. Mandela School of Law

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Which courses are available at UFH?

The University of Fort Hare (UFH) offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its six faculties. Here's an overview of the courses available:

1. Faculty of Education

Undergraduate Programs

  • Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching
  • Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching
  • Bachelor of Education in Senior and Further Education and Training Phase

Postgraduate Programs

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education & Training
  • Master of Education
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education

2. Faculty of Health Sciences

Undergraduate Programs

  • Bachelor of Nursing
  • Bachelor of Health Sciences in Human Movement Science
  • Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Postgraduate Programs

  • Master of Nursing Science (with specialisations in Health Management, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Midwifery & Neonatal Nursing)
  • Master of Public Health
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

3. Nelson R. Mandela School of Law

Undergraduate Programs

  • Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
  • Bachelor of Commerce (Law)
  • Diploma in Local Government Law and Administration

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Postgraduate Programs

  • Master of Laws
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Law

4. Faculty of Management & Commerce

Undergraduate Programs

  • Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems
  • Bachelor of Administration in Public Administration

Postgraduate Programs

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy
  • Master of Commerce
  • Master of Public Administration
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Economics, Industrial Psychology, or Information Systems

5. Faculty of Science & Agriculture

Undergraduate Programs

  • Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (with specialisations in Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Extension, Animal Production, Crop Science, Horticulture, Livestock & Pasture Science, Soil Science)
  • Bachelor of Science (with majors in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Botany, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, Zoology)

Postgraduate Programs

  • Honours, Master's, and Doctoral degrees in various scientific disciplines

6. Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities

Undergraduate Programs

  • Bachelor of Social Science
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Bachelor of Social Work
  • Bachelor of Theology
  • Bachelor of Music
  • Bachelor of Fine Art

Postgraduate Programs

  • Honours, Master's, and Doctoral degrees in disciplines such as Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, History, Philosophy, and more

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University of Fort Hare location

Students can choose to study at one of the university's three campuses in Alice, Bhisho, or East London.

What are the minimum requirements for UFH?

Here are the general minimum requirements for potential undergraduate students.

  • All prospective students with South African National Senior Certificates must pass at least four subjects with a rating of 4.
  • Students with non-South African Senior Certificates must obtain matriculation endorsements.
  • All students aged below 18 must attach a declaration by their parents or guardians with their filled-out forms.

Accommodation at the University of Fort Hare

The institution offers hostel accommodation to students who apply for it. Note that this option comes with extra cash, known as accommodation fees.

How do you contact the university?

Here is a look at the contact information for the institution's three campuses.

Alice Campus

  • Location: 1 King Williamstown Rd, Alice, 5700
  • Telephone: 040 602 2011

East London Campus

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  • Location: 50 Church Street, East London,5201
  • Telephone: 043 704 7000

Bhisho Campus

  • Location: 50 Independence Avenue, Bhisho,5605
  • Telephone: 040 608 3403

Are there diploma courses at Fort Hare?

Yes, the institution offers multiple postgraduate diploma courses. You should go through the list of qualifications offered at the university.

Where is Fort Hare University?

Fort Hare University is a public university in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa. It has other campuses in Bhisho and East London.

How do you pay the University of Fort Hare?

The preferred method of payment is via the M65 form, which is obtainable at any branch of Standard Bank or from the cashier's office at the University's campuses. However, you can also use cheques, direct deposits, and debit orders.

How long does Fort Hare take to respond?

After applying to UFH, you should expect to hear back within four to six weeks. This is based on when and how you submitted your application.

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Does UFH offer financial assistance?

Yes, the University of Fort Hare has bursaries, Eduloan, and NSFAS financial assistance options. One can contact their campus's finance department for additional information.

What is the APS score for Fort Hare University?

The minimum admission point score (APS) is 26 points or higher, depending on the programme.

The Fort Hare online application for 2026 is relatively simple and fast, unlike the previous manual application process. The institution has made things even easier by making all the required resources easily accessible to potential applicants. Manual applications are no longer acceptable.

Briefly.co.za recently published a list of the best universities in Africa that offer quality education. Having an education is considered vital for anyone looking to achieve success in their life.

With so many universities, not all can be said to be offering quality and fulfilling education. This is why one should choose wisely to ensure their time and resources are well spent.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
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Peter Kinuthia Peter Kinuthia is a 2018 graduate of Kenyatta University with a Bachelor's degree in Health Services Management. With over five years of copy-writing experience about media, lifestyle, and health affairs, Peter has cemented a solid career in copy-writing/journalism. He previously worked with Ace My Homework before joining the Briefly team in 2017. With over 5 years of experience in Briefly, Peter has become a remarkable wordsmith. (Email: petekinuthia9@gmail.com)

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Cyprine Apindi (Lifestyle writer) Cyprine Apindi is a content creator and educator with over six years of experience. She holds a Diploma in Mass Communication and a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Kenyatta University. Cyprine joined Briefly.co.za in mid-2021, covering multiple topics, including finance, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle. In 2023, she finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. She received the Writer of the Year awards in 2023 and 2024. In 2024, she completed the Google News Initiative course. Email: cyprineapindi@gmail.com