The University of the Free State (UFS) School of Nursing offers one of the most sought-after nursing degrees in South Africa. On this page, we will break down the requirements for the Bachelor of Nursing programme (BC849000), looking at the specific subject requirements, why you must make it your first choice, and how UFS compares to other universities.
The nursing degree course at UFS is presented at the Bloemfontein Campus (BC).
Important: Selection and Space Availability
Space Availability is Limited!
If you intend to study for a Bachelor of Nursing at UFS in 2026, you must know that admission is subject to selection. Only approximately 75 first-year students are accepted into the course each year. This is a very small number compared to the high interest that students all over South Africa have towards studying nursing at UFS.
Crucial Application Rule: UFS requires that the Bachelor of Nursing programme must be indicated as your first choice on your application to be considered. If you put it as a second or third choice, you will not be selected.
UFS Bachelor of Nursing (BC849000) Admission Requirements
For you to study nursing at UFS, you need to have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a specific subject combination. Unlike some universities that are extremely strict, UFS offers a balance between scientific foundation and subject flexibility.
The minimum admission requirements are as follows:
| Subject | Minimum NSC Level | Percentage Required |
|---|---|---|
| English (Home or First Additional) | Level 4 | 50–59% |
| Life Sciences | Level 4 | 50–59% |
| Mathematics (Core) | Level 3 | 40–49% |
| Mathematical Literacy | Level 4 | 50–59% |
| Physical Sciences | Level 3 | 40–49% |
UFS Bachelor of Nursing Subject Requirements
Note: Meeting these minimums does not guarantee admission due to the high volume of applications.
Is UFS strict compared to other universities?
When we analyze the requirements, UFS is unique in a few ways:
- Maths Flexibility: UFS is very accommodating with Mathematics. They accept Core Maths at just 40% (Level 3) or Maths Lit at 50% (Level 4). This is much more lenient than Wits, UP, or UJ, which often reject Maths Lit entirely for nursing.
- Physical Sciences is Mandatory: Unlike UP or UKZN, where you might get in without Physical Sciences, UFS requires it. However, the pass mark is reasonable—you only need a Level 3 (40–49%).
- Life Sciences Requirement: UFS requires a Level 4 (50–59%) for Life Sciences. This is easier than Nelson Mandela University (NMU) or SMU, which often demand a Level 5 (60%).
Application Closing Dates for Nursing at UFS
The application dates for a Bachelor of Nursing course at UFS for 2026 studies are strict. Do not miss this deadline.
- Applications opening date: 1 April 2025
- Application closing date: 31 July 2025
UFS has a tighter application window for nursing studies compared to other qualifications. While other courses might stay open later, nursing closes promptly on the 31st of July. Check Application dates for all South African universities for 2026 here.
The University of Free State (UFS) School of Nursing offers one of the best nursing degrees in South Africa. On this page we will look at that are the requirements for this nursing course, from the subject requirements, APS score, closing dates and transferring into UFS nursing course as a second or third year student.
The nursing degree course at UFS is offered at the Bloemfontein main campus. That’s where the School of Nursing is located.
Space Availability is Limited!
If you intend to study for a Bachelor of Nursing at UFS in 2026, you must know that only 75 first year students can be accepted in to the course each year. That is a very small number compared to the high interest that students all over South Africa have towards studying nursing at UFS.
These space constrains are imposed by the South African Nursing Council, which regulates all nursing qualifications across the country.
UFS Subject Requirements for Nursing
For you to study nursing at UFS, you need to have a specific subject combination from your matric results, as follows:
- English or Afrikaans first/second language – 50% marks required
- Mathematics – 40% marks required, or Mathematical Literacy -70% required.
- Life Sciences – 60% marks required, or Physical Science – 50% required
Out of the subjects above (including other grade 12 subjects), your total APS score must be 30.
Your medical certificate is also required when you apply.
Application Closing Dates for Nursing at UFS
The application dates for a Bachelor of Nursing course at UFS for 2026 studies are:
- Applications oppening dates: 1 April 2025
- Application closing dates: 31 June 2025
UFS has a tighter application window for nursing studies as compared to other qualifications, where students can apply until the 30th of September 2025. Check Application dates for all South African universities for 2026 here
Other Relevant Resources
- Requirements to Study Nursing at UWC (University of the Western Cape)
- Requirements to Study Nursing at Stellenbosch University
- Requirements to Study Nursing at Univen (University of Venda)
- Requirements to Study Nursing at Unizulu (University of Zululand)
- Requirements to Study Nursing at NWU (North-West University)
- Requirements to Study Nursing at UL (University of Limpopo)