UNISA 2026 Applications: Everything You Need to Know

The University of South Africa (UNISA) will open applications for the 2026 academic year between 18 August and 10 October 2025. If you're planning to study at this leading distance learning institution, this guide outlines everything you need to know to prepare for your application.

UNISA 2026 Applications: Everything You Need to Know

About UNISA

UNISA is South Africa’s largest open distance e-learning (ODeL) university, offering accessible and flexible learning opportunities to thousands of students across the country and abroad. Known for its commitment to equity and transformation, UNISA provides quality academic programmes while addressing historical inequalities in education access.

UNISA Opening and Closing Dates for 2026 Applications

UNISA follows a strict application window. For the 2026 academic year, the application dates are:

• Opening date: 18 August 2025
• Closing date: 10 October 2025

All applications must be submitted during this period. Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.

UNISA Available Undergraduate Qualifications for 2026

UNISA offers a wide range of undergraduate qualifications across its faculties and colleges, including:

• Higher Certificates
• Diplomas
• Bachelor Degrees

Popular Fields of Study Include:

• Accounting Sciences
• Law
• Education
• Economic & Management Sciences
• Science, Engineering & Technology
• Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
• Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

UNISA’s qualifications are offered at various NQF levels, and students are encouraged to apply for more than one programme to increase their chances of acceptance.

UNISA 2026 Admission Requirements

Each qualification has specific admission criteria. Below are the general requirements:

General Admission Criteria:

• Bachelor’s Degree: NSC pass with Bachelor’s Degree endorsement
• Diploma: NSC pass with Diploma endorsement
• Higher Certificate: NSC pass with Higher Certificate endorsement
• Language Requirement: English at NSC Level 4 (Home Language) or Level 5 (First Additional Language)

Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission—your application is subject to available space and selection criteria.

Who Should Apply for 2026 Admission at UNISA?

You must apply for admission if:

• You are a first-time UNISA applicant
• You are a returning student changing qualifications
• You previously applied but did not register
• You have completed a Higher Certificate and wish to continue
• You plan to enrol at a TVET College under the UNISA-TVET partnership

Documents Required for UNISA 2026 Applications

Applicants must upload clear, certified copies of the following documents:

• ID Document or Passport
• National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification
• Academic transcripts (if applicable)
• SAQA evaluation (for foreign qualifications)
• Supporting documents for prior learning or credit transfer (if applicable)

Failure to upload required documents will result in a delayed or unsuccessful application.

UNISA 2026 Application Process

To apply for undergraduate admission at UNISA in 2026, follow these steps:

1. Visit the UNISA application portal
2. Select “Apply Now”
3. Choose your qualification level (e.g., undergraduate)
4. Submit your personal and academic information
5. Upload certified documents
6. Select up to three qualification choices (ranked by preference)
7. Submit your application before 10 October 2025
8. Track your application status online

Note: If you are accepted, you must accept the offer within 10 working days and register during the designated registration period.

Application Review and Offer Process

UNISA evaluates applications based on:

• APS score
• Availability of space
• Demographic and socio-economic criteria (to promote equity)

If accepted, you'll receive an offer for one qualification. Accepting the offer will automatically cancel your other applications. First-time applicants must also complete the First-Year Experience (FYE) MOOC before accepting the offer.

Credits and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Students with prior tertiary studies can apply for credit transfers by submitting:

• DSAR04 form
• Certified academic records
• Course syllabi (for external or international credits)

UNISA also recognises informal learning and work experience through its RPL process. Visit the RPL website for more details.

What If You Don’t Meet the Admission Requirements?

If you don’t qualify for your preferred course:

• Apply for a Higher Certificate in a related field
• Explore other qualifications that match your career goals
• Consider career planning tools available on UNISA’s website

UNISA Financial Aid and Bursaries

Funding options for UNISA students include:

1. NSFAS – for financially needy students
   • Apply at www.nsfas.org.za
2. SETAs and Government Bursaries
3. Private Bursaries and Scholarships

Required documents for bursary applications generally include:

• Certified ID copy
• Matric certificate or latest results
• Proof of household income
• Academic transcripts
• Motivational letter or testimonial

Accommodation at UNISA

UNISA is a distance learning institution and does not offer student accommodation. However, students enrolled through UNISA-TVET partnerships may be able to access residence facilities via their respective TVET colleges.

UNISA Student Support Services

UNISA offers several support services for its students:

• Academic support through online tutors and learning tools
• Career counselling
• Mental health services
• Online help desks and call centres

For help with your application, contact:

• 📧 Email: [email protected]
• ☎️ Call: 0800 00 1870 (Toll-Free from RSA landlines)

Conclusion

Applying to UNISA for the 2026 academic year is your opportunity to access quality higher education at your own pace. Make sure you meet the requirements, gather all necessary documents, and apply before the closing date.

For official updates, visit the UNISA Applications Page.

🎓 Best of luck with your UNISA 2026 application! 🎓