Are you ready to begin a passionate and fulfilling career in nursing? The Free State School of Nursing (FSSON), part of the Free State Department of Health, invites prospective students to apply for its respected nursing programmes for 2026 intake. Spread across three campuses—Bloemfontein (Southern), Welkom (Northern), and Qwa‑Qwa (Eastern)—FSSON offers a range of courses to suit different educational backgrounds and professional goals.
Free State School of Nursing: 2026 Applications
Available Programmes & Admission Criteria for the Free State School of Nursing: 2026 Applications
1. Diploma in Nursing (R171)
A 3‑ or 4‑year qualification leading to registration as a General, Community, and Psychiatric Nurse.
Entry requirements:
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Matric 2008+
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National Senior Certificate with APS ≥ 25 (six subjects + Life Orientation)
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Minimum 50% in English, Mathematical Literacy, and Life Science
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Physical Science and computer literacy are recommended
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Matric prior to 2008
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Matriculation Exemption with M‑Score ≥ 23
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Higher grade pass in English, Biology/Physiology, Mathematics
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Physical Science recommended
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2. Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (R169)
A two‑year course, focusing on essential skills for auxiliary nursing.
Entry requirements:
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Matric 2008+
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APS ≥ 23, with 50%+ in English, Life Science, and Math Literacy
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Preference: computer literacy and physical science
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Matric before 2008
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M‑Score ≥ 20
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Competitive passes in English and Biology/Physiology; Math and Physical Science preferred
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3. Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (R1497)
For qualified nurses to gain certification as a Registered Midwife (R.359).
Entry requirements:
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NQF Level 6 Diploma in Nursing
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Professional nurse registration with SANC
Understanding APS and M‑Score
Your admission depends heavily on your Admission Point Score (APS) or M‑Score:
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APS: For 2008+ NSC results, grades are converted (A=7 down to G=1) and totaled across six subjects.
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M‑Score: For pre‑2008 Matric, Higher Grade A=8, SG A=6, scaled accordingly ().
How to Apply Online
FSSON uses the national e‑Government portal:
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Register at eservices.gov.za:
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RSA ID, email address, and cellphone required.
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Upload certified documents: ID, Matric certificate (or Grade 12 results), proof of address, and other relevant certificates (e.g. SANC if applicable).
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Log in and select the R171, R169, or R1497 programme for the year 2026.
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Complete all personal, education, and (optional) bursary sections.
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Upload documents and submit your application.
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Save and note your confirmation; errors usually relate to missing red‑asterisk‑fields.
Once submitted, monitor the portal or your email for further communication.
Campuses & Contact Info
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Southern Campus – Bloemfontein
Head: MC Mofahla, Tel: 051 403 9831 -
Northern Campus – Welkom
Head: MMJ Mokhomo, Tel: 057 396 3710 -
Eastern Campus – Qwa‑Qwa
Head: MA Mofokeng, Tel: 058 718 3341
Before You Apply
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Ensure your APS/M‑Score meets programme minimums.
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Have certified scans/photos of all required documents.
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A valid Police Clearance Certificate will be required upon acceptance.
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SANC registration mandatory for bridging or post-registration courses.
What’s Next?
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Keep an eye on the e‑Government portal for formal 2026 application dates.
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Check regularly for communications via email or SMS after applying.
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Plan for the Police Clearance Certificate—it can take time to process.
Tips for a Strong Application
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Double-check all grades and APS/M‑Score calculations.
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Tailor your campus choice to your district for logistical ease.
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Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Conclusion
Pursuing a nursing career at FSSON means joining a respected institution backed by the Free State Department of Health. With three campuses, clear access pathways, and online applications, your path to a rewarding healthcare profession starts here. Best of luck to all future nursing hopefuls in 2026!
