The University of the Free State (UFS) has a proud history as one of the oldest, most respected institutions of higher education in South Africa. It opened its doors in Bloemfontein in 1904 as the Grey University College, with six students in the Humanities. Today it is a multi-campus institution, with two diverse campuses in Bloemfontein and one in Qwaqwa in the scenic Eastern Free State, accommodating more than 40 000 students in its seven faculties, with an increasing number of international students and associates, and an ever-widening scope of active involvement in and contribution to its surrounding communities.

For the past 117 years, the UFS has been delivering quality graduates who have made their mark in various sectors. What sets the institution apart is its holistic student support initiatives, enabling it to achieve some of the highest success rates in the country. Delivering students who are in high demand in the global job market, remains a top priority. An established network of industry partners and close collaboration with the public and private sectors, as well as a continuous process of transformation and curriculum renewal, dovetail to produce highly employable graduates.

UFS research efforts are driven by dedicated scholars, some of whom are international leaders in their fields, with industry and social impact and real-world application.

Through the principle of engaged scholarship, the UFS responds to societal needs, using its scholarly and professional expertise with an intentional public purpose and benefit.

It is an institution that goes all out to provide its students and staff with an outstanding university experience. Anchored in a value bedrock of social justice, respect, and caring, the institution has managed to remain steadfastly relevant in a challenging and ever-changing national higher education landscape.