The University of South Africa (UNISA) has officially opened applications for Higher Certificate courses for the 2026 academic year. Applications will run from 18 August to 10 October 2025.
Higher Certificate courses are a great starting point if you don’t meet the admission requirements for a degree or diploma. They also provide an opportunity to gain foundational knowledge in your chosen field while opening the door to further studies.
UNISA Higher Certificate Courses Open for 2026 Applications
Why Choose a Higher Certificate at UNISA?
- Acts as a bridging qualification into diploma or degree studies.
- Provides practical and theoretical foundations in your field of interest.
- Offers a flexible learning environment through distance learning.
- Recognized across South Africa and internationally.
UNISA Higher Certificate Courses for 2026
Here is the full list of Higher Certificate courses available for the 2026 academic year:
- Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare
- Higher Certificate in Archives and Records Management
- Higher Certificate in Banking
- Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice
- Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Education (Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase)
- Higher Certificate in Education (Senior Phase: Maths and Science Education)
- Higher Certificate in Education (Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching)
- Higher Certificate in Law
- Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Marketing
- Higher Certificate in Mathematics and Statistics
- Higher Certificate in Physical Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Retailing
- Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work
- Higher Certificate in Supervisory Management
- Higher Certificate in Tourism Management
UNISA 2026 Application Dates and Deadlines
- Opening date: 18 August 2025
- Closing date: 10 October 2025
📌 Remember: Late applications will not be accepted.
2026 Admission Requirements at UNISA
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in the language of teaching and learning (English).
- Some Higher Certificates may have additional subject requirements, so check the qualification details on the UNISA website.
How to Apply for a Higher Certificate at UNISA for 2026 Applications
- Visit the official UNISA application portal.
- Select your Higher Certificate qualification.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload certified copies of your supporting documents.
- Pay the non-refundable application fee.
- Submit your application and keep your reference number safe.
Why Apply Early?
- Higher Certificate courses are in high demand, especially in Education, Law, and Social Work.
- Applying early gives you time to arrange funding (e.g., NSFAS) and gather required documents.
- Avoid last-minute system overloads or missing the deadline.
Conclusion
If you’re ready to start your academic journey, UNISA Higher Certificate courses for 2026 are now open for applications. These qualifications are the perfect stepping stone into diploma or degree studies.
👉 Don’t wait — apply between 18 August and 10 October 2025 and take the first step toward your future at UNISA.