UNISA Short Learning Programme Registration Dates for 2026

The University of South Africa (UNISA) has officially announced registration dates for Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) for the 2026 academic year. These programmes are designed for individuals who want to quickly gain practical skills, update existing knowledge, or meet specific workplace or career requirements.

Below is everything you need to know about 2026 UNISA Short Learning Programme registrations, including important dates, who must apply, required documents, and what happens after you submit your application.

2026 UNISA Short Learning Programme Registration Dates

Registration for UNISA Short Learning Programmes is now open, with the following timelines:

• First Semester Registration:
  5 January – 20 February 2026
• Year Registration:
  5 January – 20 March 2026

Applicants are encouraged to register as early as possible, as spaces are limited and late submissions are not accepted.

What Are UNISA Short Learning Programmes?

UNISA’s Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) are introductory, practical, non-degree courses aimed at developing skills and knowledge in a focused and efficient way.

These programmes follow a “just enough learning” approach, meaning they are structured to meet a specific learning or employment need without the long-term commitment of a full qualification. SLPs are ideal for upskilling, reskilling, or career exploration.

All SLPs are housed within UNISA’s academic colleges and are offered and administered through the Centre for Lifelong Learning.

Find a Short Learning Programme by College

Programme content, admission criteria, and registration details are available on the official UNISA Short Learning Programmes website:

👉 www.unisa.ac.za/slp

Who Must Apply?

You must apply for admission if you:

• Are applying to UNISA for the first time
• Are a current UNISA student changing to a new Short Learning Programme
• Previously applied but were not offered a space

Everyone starting a new Short Learning Programme must submit a formal application before registering.

When Must I Apply?

Applications and registrations for UNISA Short Learning Programmes for 2026 are currently open. Applications must be completed online before the relevant closing date.

How to Apply for UNISA Short Learning Programmes

All applications must be submitted online.

Important Application Rules

• You may apply for a maximum of two Short Learning Programmes, ranked in order of preference
• If both applications are successful, you may only register for one programme
• You must accept or decline the offer within the timeframe stated in your offer letter
• Failure to respond in time will result in the offer being withdrawn and given to another applicant

Uploading Supporting Documents

All applicants must upload the required supporting documents before the application closing date. Documents submitted after the closing date will not be accepted.

⚠️ UNISA does not provide scanners or electronic devices. Ensure your documents are scanned and ready before starting your application.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Documents Required for a New Short Learning Programme

Applicants must upload certified copies of the following (where applicable):

• School qualification (eg National Senior Certificate)
• Official tertiary academic records (internet copies not accepted)
• South African ID (RSA students) or passport (international students)
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)
• Sworn translations for documents not in English or Afrikaans
• Any additional documents required for a specific programme

UNISA reserves the right to verify documents or request originals at any stage. Submitting fraudulent documents is a criminal offence under the Student Disciplinary Code.

Document Upload Rules You Must Follow

To avoid delays or rejection, ensure that:

• Each document is uploaded as an individual file
• Files are no larger than 2MB (2048KB) each
• Documents are black and white only
• Accepted file formats are PDF, DOC, or TIF

Important Communication Details

Before applying, confirm that:

• You have one valid email address and one cellphone number
• You understand that UNISA will use these details for all communication during the application process

Once registered, all students receive a free myLife email account.
This account becomes the only official communication channel between you and UNISA, in line with the POPI Act. It is your responsibility to activate and regularly check your myLife email.

What Happens After You Apply?

After submission, UNISA will assess your application and notify you of the outcome.

If successful:

• Your documents will be verified and captured
• UNISA will complete a temporary registration on your behalf
• You will receive a Temporarily Registered (TP) letter via email and SMS
• The TP letter will indicate the fees required to activate your registration

Trouble Opening Your TP Letter?

To view your TP letter on a smartphone, ensure that:

• You have access to a smartphone or computer
• You received an email from UNISA with an attachment
• You have the latest version of Adobe Reader installed

If you are still unable to view the letter, contact the UNISA Centre for Lifelong Learning for assistance:

📧 [email protected]
📧 General enquiries: [email protected]

UNISA Short Learning Programmes offer a flexible and practical way to gain in-demand skills in 2026. With registrations now open, applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents early and apply well before the closing dates.

Short courses, real skills, real impact, make 2026 the year you invest in your growth.