University of Fort Hare (UFH): A 2025 Guide to a Legacy of Leaders
To choose the University of Fort Hare is to choose to walk in the footsteps of giants. For over a century, UFH has been a beacon of Black academic excellence in Southern Africa, nurturing a generation of liberation heroes, heads of state, and intellectual leaders, including the iconic Nelson Mandela.
Today, UFH continues its mission of “leading in Africa,” combining its profound legacy with a modern focus on social justice and academic quality. This guide will give you a real sense of its unique spirit and provide a clear, step-by-step plan for your 2025 application.

The Fort Hare Advantage: More Than Just a Degree
What makes UFH special is its powerful sense of purpose.
- A History That Inspires: Studying here means becoming part of a story that changed a continent. This history creates a unique and motivating atmosphere of purpose and responsibility.
- Excellence in Key Fields: UFH is renowned for its Faculty of Law (named after Nelson Mandela), its pioneering work in Agriculture, and its strong programs in Social Sciences and Education.
- A Choice of Environments: With campuses in the historic, rural town of Alice and the coastal city of East London, you can choose the learning environment that suits you best.
Campus Life: Alice vs. East London
- Alice Campus (Main Campus): The historic heart of the university. Here you’ll find a traditional, close-knit campus experience where the sense of history is present everywhere. It houses faculties like Law, Education, and Humanities.
- East London Campus: Offering a more modern, urban university experience, this campus is located close to the coast. It is home to programs in Social Sciences, Management, and Commerce.
Applying to UFH for 2025: Your Step-by-Step Plan
The application process is handled directly by the university’s online system. Here’s what you need to do.
Key Application Details:
- Application System: You apply directly to UFH via their online portal.
- Application Status: Open
- Application Closing Date: 31 October 2025 (check the official UFH website for any changes).
- Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of R120 is required for South African students.
π Visit the Official UFH Website
π Apply Online via UFH Portal
π Download the UFH Prospectus
Important Tips for Your UFH Application:
- Check the Points Score (APS): Before anything else, calculate your Admission Point Score and check it against the minimum requirements for your chosen course. This is the first hurdle your application must clear.
- Get Your Documents Certified and Ready: You will need clear, recently certified copies of your ID and latest school results. Have these scanned and ready to upload to make the process smoother.
- Apply to the Correct Campus: Ensure the course you want is offered on the campus you select in your application. Check the UFH prospectus to confirm locations.