Published: 16 August 2026 | Reading Time: 15 minutes
By Macdee Hlalele — Founder, ApplyOnlineSA | BCom Marketing Management, UNISA
UNISA applications 2027 academic year open — 17 August 2026. If you have been waiting to study, this is your moment. Do not sleep on this deadline — UNISA application windows fill up fast and popular qualifications close early.
This is the most complete UNISA application guide you will find — written by someone who studied at UNISA himself while running a business and serving his community. I know exactly how this works, what to expect, and how to make sure your application succeeds.
What is UNISA?
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is the largest open distance e-learning university on the African continent — and one of the largest in the world. With over 400,000 students, UNISA makes higher education accessible to South Africans who cannot attend a traditional contact university.
What makes UNISA different:
- Study from home — no need to relocate or commute to campus
- Study at your own pace — around work, family, and other commitments
- No APS score requirement for most undergraduate programmes
- Affordable fees compared to contact universities
- NSFAS funding available for qualifying students
- Internationally recognised qualifications
- Multiple study periods — not just January intake
UNISA has produced some of South Africa’s most prominent leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs — including many who could not access traditional universities due to financial or geographic constraints.
UNISA Application Dates for 2027
This is the most important section — read it carefully.
| Application Period | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 (February 2027) | 17 August 2026 | 30 September 2026 |
Applications open tomorrow — 17 August 2026. Do not wait until September. Popular qualifications and modules close as soon as they reach capacity — weeks before the official closing date.
Who Can Apply to UNISA?
UNISA is designed to be accessible. Unlike traditional contact universities, the entry requirements are significantly more flexible:
For most Undergraduate Qualifications:
- South African matric certificate (NSC) or equivalent
- No minimum APS score for most programmes
- Mature age entry available for applicants over 23 without matric
For Higher Certificates:
- Matric certificate with any pass
- Some programmes accept Grade 11 with relevant experience
For Diplomas:
- Matric certificate
- Some programmes require specific subjects
For Degrees (BCom, BA, BSc, LLB):
- Matric certificate with degree pass (Bachelor’s pass)
- Some programmes have specific subject requirements
For Postgraduate Qualifications:
- Relevant undergraduate degree or diploma
- Specific requirements depend on the qualification
Mature Age Entry (Over 23):
If you are 23 years or older and do not have a matric certificate, UNISA has a mature age entry process. You may qualify based on relevant work experience and prior learning. Contact UNISA’s student admissions office for details.
UNISA Colleges — What Can You Study?
UNISA is organised into six colleges, each offering a wide range of qualifications:
College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES)
Agriculture, food science, environmental management, and consumer science.
Popular qualifications:
- BSc Agriculture
- BSc Consumer Science
- Diploma in Agriculture
- Higher Certificate in Agriculture
College of Accounting Sciences (CAS)
Accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial management — one of UNISA’s most popular colleges.
Popular qualifications:
- BCom Accounting Sciences
- BCom Management Accounting
- Diploma in Accounting Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences
- Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting Sciences (CTA — towards CA(SA))
Career note: The UNISA accounting route is one of the most popular pathways to becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) in South Africa.
College of Economic and Management Sciences (CEMS)
Business, management, marketing, human resources, and public administration.
Popular qualifications:
- BCom (General)
- BCom Marketing Management (the qualification I completed — Macdee)
- BCom Human Resource Management
- BCom Business Management
- BCom Public Administration
- BAdmin
- Diploma in Business Management
- Higher Certificate in Business Administration
College of Education (CE)
Teaching qualifications for foundation phase, intermediate phase, and senior phase.
Popular qualifications:
- BEd Foundation Phase Teaching
- BEd Intermediate Phase Teaching
- BEd Senior Phase and FET Teaching
- Advanced Diploma in Education
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Funza Lushaka bursary note: If you want to teach, apply for the Funza Lushaka bursary simultaneously — it covers your full UNISA education costs if you commit to teaching at a public school. Read our Funza Lushaka guide →
College of Human Sciences (CHS)
Arts, humanities, languages, social work, psychology, criminology, and communication.
Popular qualifications:
- BA (General)
- BA Communication
- BA Psychology
- BA Social Work
- BA Criminology
- Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education
College of Law (COL)
Law qualifications from foundation level to postgraduate.
Popular qualifications:
- LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
- BCom Law
- Higher Certificate in Law
- Postgraduate Diploma in Law
Important: The LLB at UNISA is a 4-year qualification. Combined with practical training, it leads to admission as an attorney or advocate.
College of Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET)
Mathematics, statistics, computing, information technology, and engineering.
Popular qualifications:
- BSc Computing
- BSc Information Technology
- BSc Mathematical Sciences
- Diploma in Electrical Engineering
- Higher Certificate in Information Technology
UNISA Fees for 2027
UNISA fees are module-based — you pay per module you register for, not a flat annual fee.
How fees are calculated:
- Each module has a credit value
- You pay per credit
- The more modules you register for, the more you pay
Approximate fee ranges per year (2026 figures — verify for 2027):
| Qualification Level | Approximate Annual Fees |
|---|---|
| Higher Certificate | R9,000 — R14,000 |
| Diploma | R12,000 — R18,000 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | R15,000 — R25,000 |
| Postgraduate Diploma | R18,000 — R28,000 |
| Honours | R20,000 — R30,000 |
Always check the current fee schedule at unisa.ac.za — fees are updated annually.
Additional costs to budget for:
- Prescribed textbooks (these are separate from tuition fees)
- Internet access for myUnisa online learning platform
- Printing and stationery for assignments
How to Pay UNISA Fees
UNISA accepts payment via:
- myUnisa student portal — pay online by credit or debit card
- Bank transfer — to UNISA’s official bank account
- NSFAS — if you qualify for funding (see below)
- Bursaries — if you have a sponsor paying on your behalf
UNISA and NSFAS — Can You Get Funding?
Yes — UNISA students qualify for NSFAS funding. This is one of the most important facts that many prospective UNISA students do not know.
NSFAS covers qualifying UNISA students for:
- Tuition fees
- Study material allowance
- A living allowance (for students who qualify)
To qualify for NSFAS at UNISA:
- South African citizen
- Household income of R350,000 or less per year
- Registered for an undergraduate qualification
- Have not yet completed a first undergraduate qualification
Critical timing: NSFAS applications for 2027 open between September and November 2026. Apply for UNISA AND NSFAS simultaneously — do not wait for one before doing the other.
Read our complete NSFAS application guide →
How to Apply to UNISA for 2027 — Step by Step
Step 1 — Check if Your Qualification is Available
Before anything else, confirm that the qualification you want is:
- Offered by UNISA
- Open for 2027 applications
- Not yet closed due to capacity
Go to unisa.ac.za → Apply → Qualifications and browse the full list.
Step 2 — Check the Entry Requirements
Each qualification has specific entry requirements. Check:
- Minimum matric subjects and symbols required
- Whether your matric pass type (degree, diploma, or higher certificate) qualifies
- Whether specific subjects like Mathematics or English are required
Step 3 — Gather Your Documents
Have these ready before starting your application:
All applicants:
- South African ID (certified copy)
- Matric certificate (certified copy)
- Matric results statement
- Proof of residence (not older than 3 months)
If you have studied before:
- Academic transcripts from previous institution
- Certificate of conduct or good standing
International applicants:
- SAQA evaluation of foreign qualifications
Postgraduate applicants:
- Previous degree or diploma certificate
- Academic transcripts
Step 4 — Go to the UNISA Application Portal
From 17 August 2026, go to:
my.unisa.ac.za — the official UNISA student portal
Click “Apply for Admission“
Step 5 — Create Your myUnisa Account
If you are a first-time applicant:
- Click “Create Account”
- Enter your South African ID number
- Create a username and strong password
- Provide your email address and cellphone number
- Verify your email address
If you are a returning student:
- Log in with your existing student number and password
Step 6 — Complete the Application Form
Fill in all required information accurately:
- Personal details (must match your ID exactly)
- Contact details
- Previous qualifications
- Qualification you are applying for
- Modules for first semester (if required at this stage)
- Disability or special needs (if applicable)
Step 7 — Pay the Application Fee
UNISA charges an application fee of approximately R135 (verify current amount at unisa.ac.za).
Payment methods:
- Credit or debit card online
- Bank transfer to UNISA’s account
Keep your proof of payment. You will need it if there are any payment queries.
Step 8 — Upload Your Documents
Upload certified copies of all required documents in PDF format. Make sure documents are:
- Clearly readable
- Complete — no cut-off pages
- Certified by a Commissioner of Oaths (free at your nearest police station)
Step 9 — Submit Your Application
Review all your information carefully before submitting. Once submitted:
- Note your application reference number
- You will receive an email confirmation
- Track your application status at my.unisa.ac.za
Step 10 — Monitor Your Application Status
Log into my.unisa.ac.za regularly to track your application. Possible statuses:
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Received | Application submitted successfully |
| Under Review | Being assessed by admissions |
| Conditionally Accepted | Accepted pending final matric results |
| Accepted | Congratulations — you are in |
| Rejected | Not accepted — see notes for reason |
| Waitlisted | On standby for available space |
What Happens After You Are Accepted
Once your application is accepted:
Step 1 — Register for Modules
Acceptance to a qualification does not automatically enroll you in modules. You must register for specific modules separately. Registration for Semester 1 of 2027 typically opens in November 2026.
Step 2 — Pay Your Fees
Pay your tuition fees by the registration deadline. If you are waiting for NSFAS — ensure NSFAS has confirmed your funding before the payment deadline.
Step 3 — Access myUnisa
Once registered, your myUnisa account gives you access to:
- Study material and e-tutors
- Assignment submission portal
- Discussion forums with fellow students
- Library resources and academic databases
- Examination timetables and venues
Step 4 — Receive Study Material
UNISA dispatches study material (tutorial letters and prescribed books) to your registered postal address. Make sure your address on your profile is correct and current.
Studying at UNISA — What to Expect
The Reality of Distance Learning
UNISA requires tremendous self-discipline. There are no daily classes, no lecturers reminding you of deadlines, and no classmates sitting next to you. You are responsible for your own learning.
What keeps students on track:
- Create a personal study schedule and stick to it
- Set up a dedicated study space — even a desk in a corner
- Join myUnisa discussion forums to connect with other students
- Do not fall behind on assignments — they count toward your final mark
- Use the UNISA library (free access to academic journals and databases)
Assignment system:
- Most modules have two assignments per semester
- Assignments are submitted online via myUnisa
- Assignment marks contribute to your year mark which affects your exam admission
- Examinations are written at designated exam centres — not at home
UNISA Examinations
Where are UNISA exams written?
At designated examination centres across South Africa — and in some African countries. You select your preferred examination centre when registering.
Major examination periods:
- Semester 1 exams: May/June
- Semester 2 exams: October/November
- Supplementary/aegrotat exams: January/February
What if you fail an exam?
You can rewrite in the next examination period. Some modules allow multiple attempts. Check the specific module’s rules.
UNISA Bursaries and Scholarships
Beyond NSFAS, UNISA and external organisations offer bursaries for UNISA students:
UNISA Internal Bursaries:
- Merit bursaries for excellent academic performance
- Sport bursaries for elite student athletes
- Contact unisa.ac.za/bursaries for current offerings
External Bursaries for UNISA Students:
- Sector-specific SETA bursaries (W&RSETA, FASSET, MICT SETA)
- Corporate bursaries from companies like Standard Bank, Absa, and Discovery
- Professional body bursaries for accounting, law, and engineering students
Read our complete bursaries guide →
Frequently Asked Questions About UNISA Applications
Can I apply to UNISA without a matric certificate?
If you are 23 years or older, UNISA has a mature age entry route based on relevant work experience and prior learning. Contact UNISA admissions for details.
Can I study at UNISA while working full time?
Absolutely — this is what UNISA is specifically designed for. The distance learning model means you study at times that suit your schedule, including evenings and weekends.
How many modules should I register for per semester?
UNISA recommends a maximum of 4 modules per semester for full-time students and 2 modules per semester for working students. Overloading modules is a common cause of failure — start conservatively.
Can I change my qualification after applying?
Yes — but do this as early as possible before the closing date. Contact UNISA admissions to initiate a qualification change.
What is the difference between a semester module and a year module?
Semester modules run for one semester (approximately 5 months). Year modules run for the full academic year. Some qualifications have both types.
Can I transfer credits from another institution to UNISA?
Yes. UNISA has a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process for credits earned at other accredited institutions. Apply for credit transfer when submitting your application.
Do I need a computer to study at UNISA?
You need internet access to submit assignments and access study material on myUnisa. You do not need to own a computer — you can use an internet café. Visit ApplyOnlineSA Internet Café for affordable internet access →
What is the minimum number of modules per year to maintain NSFAS funding?
NSFAS requires students to pass a minimum number of modules per year to maintain funding. Check the specific NSFAS academic progression requirements for UNISA students.
Can international students apply to UNISA?
Yes. UNISA accepts international students. Additional requirements include a SAQA evaluation of foreign qualifications and proof of legal residence in South Africa.
What is the difference between UNISA and a TVET college?
UNISA offers degree-level qualifications (NQF 5–10). TVET colleges offer NQF 2–6 qualifications focused on practical, vocational training. Both qualify for NSFAS.
UNISA Application Scam Warning ⚠️
Every application season, scammers target UNISA applicants with:
- Fake UNISA application assistance websites charging fees
- WhatsApp messages claiming to offer UNISA admission for payment
- Fake UNISA acceptance letters
UNISA will NEVER:
- Guarantee admission for payment
- Communicate admission offers via WhatsApp from personal numbers
- Charge additional fees beyond the official application fee
The only official UNISA application portal is my.unisa.ac.za
WhatsApp Macdee to verify any UNISA communication →
UNISA Contact Details
| Channel | Details |
|---|---|
| Applications Portal | my.unisa.ac.za |
| Official Website | unisa.ac.za |
| Student Enquiries | 0800 00 1870 (toll-free) |
| study-info@unisa.ac.za | |
| +27 80 000 1870 | |
| Muckleneuk Campus | 1 Preller Street, Muckleneuk, Pretoria |
| Florida Campus | Cnr Christiaan de Wet and Pioneer Avenue, Florida |
Need Help With Your UNISA Application?
Applying to UNISA involves multiple steps — and getting it wrong can delay your studies by a full year. At ApplyOnlineSA we help prospective UNISA students:
- Choose the right qualification for their career goals
- Complete the online application correctly
- Gather and certify the required documents
- Apply for NSFAS funding simultaneously
- Understand module registration after acceptance
WhatsApp Macdee → | Book a Consultation → | Visit Our Internet Café in Nellmapius →
Related Articles:
- The Ultimate Guide to NSFAS 2026 →
- The Complete Guide to Bursaries in South Africa →
- University and College Applications in South Africa 2027 →
- Free Online Courses for South African Youth →
- The Complete Guide to Learnerships 2026 →
- How to Write a Professional CV →
- Best Side Hustles for Students →
ApplyOnlineSA is an independent information platform. Macdee Hlalele is a UNISA BCom Marketing Management graduate. This content is for guidance only — always verify current application dates, fees, and requirements directly at unisa.ac.za. Information is accurate as of August 2026 and subject to change.
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