UNISA Applications for 2026

Kholofelo Modise22 July , 2025

Applying to the University of South Africa (UNISA) can open doors to your future — whether you’re a school leaver, working adult, public servant, or someone returning to studies after a break. With its flexible distance learning model, UNISA is one of the most accessible universities in South Africa. But the application process can feel overwhelming if you’re unsure where to start. This guide is here to walk you through everything — step-by-step.

Who Can Apply to UNISA in 2026?

UNISA welcomes a wide range of applicants, including:

Matriculants with a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent
TVET college graduates looking to further their studies
Working professionals wanting to upskill or change careers
Mature students returning to education after several years

Pro Tip: Even if your matric results are old, you may still qualify under UNISA’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.

When Do UNISA Applications for 2026 Open?

UNISA typically opens applications for undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications around September each year for the following academic year.

Application Period (Expected):

Apply for admission to undergraduate qualifications for the 2026 academic year between 18 August and 10 October 2025.
Apply for admission to honours degrees or postgraduate diplomas for the 2026 academic year between 18 August and 10 October 2025.
Master’s & doctoral qualification information for the 2026 academic year will be available in August 2025.
Applications and registrations for Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes for the 2026 academic year will be open from 5 January to 13 February 2026 for First semester modules. Applications for year modules will remain open until 13 March 2026.

Always confirm on www.unisa.ac.za as dates are subject to change.

What You’ll Need Before You Apply

Prepare your documents early to avoid delays. Required documents include:

Compulsory Documents

Certified copy of your ID or passport
Certified copy of your matric certificate or latest academic results
If applicable: marriage certificate, divorce decree, or sworn affidavits for name changes
For foreign qualifications: SAQA evaluation certificate

Additional Requirements for Postgrad Applicants

Academic transcript and degree certificates
Motivation letter or research proposal (for honours/master’s)

Important: All documents must be certified within the last 3 months.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying at UNISA

Step 1: Choose Your Qualification

Visit the UNISA qualifications page and explore:

Higher Certificates
Diplomas
Bachelor Degrees
Honours & Postgraduate Diplomas
Master’s and Doctoral Degrees

Step 2: Check the Admission Requirements

Each course has its own admission criteria, such as:

APS (Admission Point Score)
Specific subjects (e.g. Mathematics for BCom degrees)

Step 3: Register on myUnisa and myAdmin

Create your myUnisa profile, which you’ll use throughout your academic journey.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application

Visit www.unisa.ac.za/apply and fill out the online form.
Attach all documents as PDFs.

Step 5: Track Your Application

You’ll receive a student number and can track your status online. Expect updates via SMS or email.

Hack: Use Google Chrome and a stable Wi-Fi connection for smooth uploading.

How to Pay the UNISA Application Fee

Pay the application fee
Pay the online application fee of R140,00.
Use the student number you receive from Unisa AND the application fee reference number (eg STUDENTNUMBER 5370810030)
Send your proof of payment to [email protected]
Click here for Unisa’s payment methods and banking details.
Unisa does not accept cash at any of its offices. You may, however, deposit cash into the university’s First National Bank account. International students are advised to use the Flywire payment option.

Reference: Student number + application fee

Funding Your Studies – NSFAS and More

Most South African students qualify for financial aid through:

NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)

Covers tuition, study materials, and allowances
Apply at www.nsfas.org.za during their funding window

Other Options

FUNDI student loans
Employer bursaries (e.g., for public servants via DPSA)
NGO funding (e.g., Career Wise, HCI Foundation)

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying to UNISA

Submitting blurry or outdated documents
Choosing qualifications you don’t meet the minimum criteria for
Forgetting to pay the application fee
Applying after the deadline

Checklist Tip: Always double-check file sizes, formats, and certification dates.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once you’ve submitted everything:

Processing time: Usually 6–8 weeks
Status updates: Track via UNISA Application Status Tool
Acceptance letter: If successful, you’ll receive an offer via email
Registration period: Opens shortly after offers are made

Real Story: Thabiso, a working father from Mpumalanga, used NSFAS to enrol at UNISA in 2023 and completed a Higher Certificate in Accounting in one year. He’s now doing his Diploma in Financial Accounting.

Can You Apply for More Than One Course?

Yes — you can apply for up to two qualifications. If both are approved, you’ll need to choose one when registering.

Smart Move: Apply for your first choice plus a backup option like a Higher Certificate if your APS is borderline.

Also check: 2026 University Application Dates for South African Institutions

Whether you’re starting fresh or continuing your education, UNISA makes higher learning possible for all South Africans — wherever you are in life. Prepare your documents, meet the deadlines, and apply confidently.

Visit www.unisa.ac.za/apply to begin your application.

Need help? Contact UNISA directly or explore support options at your local learning centre. Your future starts with a single step — take it today.