UNISA application for 2026: Deadlines, requirements, registration

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is among the top-ranking higher learning institutions. Did you know the university is the largest open distance learning institution in Africa? It stands out as a focal center for academic excellence, offering world-class education. Sending a UNISA application for 2026 is relatively easy.

Key Takeaways

• The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a public distance education university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications.
• It is known for offering flexible learning options, allowing students to study remotely.
• UNISA offers degrees, diplomas, certificates, and short courses in various fields.
• Applications for undergraduate and postgraduate programs are done online through the university's website.
• If you meet the minimum requirements, send a UNISA application to secure a slot at the institution.

UNISA application for 2026: Everything you should know

You can pursue multiple UNISA courses, depending on your passion and interests. These range from certificates to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

The university launched the UNISA application tool to make the process faster and more convenient for local and international applicants. Using the tool is preferable to sending hard copies of your documents.

The institution offers fair access to higher learning education and has a zero-tolerance policy on inequalities. Learn more about the deadlines and requirements.

When to apply for 2026 at UNISA?

The official UNISA online application for 2026 is not open. According to their website, information about the dates will be available from August 2025.

However, if you wish to study in 2025, you can still apply before the stipulated deadlines highlighted below.

All applications should be submitted through the UNISA application portal. The institution is quite competitive. Each year, it receives thousands of online applications from local and international students. For this reason, late applications to UNISA are not accepted.

Application requirements

Before applying for a slot at the institution, ensure you meet the following requirements.

• You must meet the statutory and college admission requirements for your qualification(s) of interest.
• You must meet the minimum academic points score for your qualification(s) of interest.
• You must have a valid e-mail address and phone number.
• You must have scanned supporting documents.

Supporting documents

The supporting documents you must attach are listed below.

• Copies of your academic qualifications
• Copy of your ID document or passport
• Copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree, if applicable
• Sworn translations of documents if they are not in English or Afrikaans

UNISA registration process

The process is relatively simple using the online application tool provided by the university.

• Visit the UNISA website and click Apply on the homepage.

• A list of options will pop up on the screen. Click the qualification you wish to pursue.
• Read the information, then click Start the Process.
• Read the information, then click Proceed.
• Read the information, then scroll back to the top and click Are you certain about your career?
• Read the information, then scroll back to the top and click Choose or find your qualification.
• Select your qualification by college or level.
• Choose the qualification you wish to pursue. You will find all admission requirements for your programme of interest here. Confirm you meet the minimum entry criteria.
• Click Apply for admission, then Apply Online.
• If you already have a student number, click Yes. If not, click No.
• Fill in your details and follow the prompts.
• Once you complete the forms, you will be prompted to upload the supporting documents.

NB: If your application for admission is incomplete, you will have to reapply during the next application period.

How to check UNISA application status

To check your UNISA application status, visit the application tool. Enter your UNISA application login details to see the status.

The details needed will include your student number, surname, first name, and your date of birth. Note that the institution may take up to three months to review your documents, so exercise patience.

What is the UNISA application fee for 2026?

The UNISA application fee for the 2026 academic year has not been communicated since the application is not open. However, 2025 applicants pay R140.00. The amount could remain the same or change slightly.

The fee applies to students who do not have a formal UNISA student number. Additionally, the application fee is non-refundable, even if you do not qualify for admission or are not offered a space.

Where to pay the application fee for UNISA?

The R140 application fee can be transferred electronically through the MyUnisa online platform, electronic fund transfer (EFT), credit card, or by depositing the money into the university’s bank account at any First National Bank (FNB) or ABSA Bank branches. Cash is not accepted at any UNISA office.

You should use the student number you receive from the university and the application fee reference number when remitting the amount.

UNISA short course application

UNISA's Short Learning Programmes are introductory, practical, non-degree programmes that develop skills and knowledge in a chosen subject field in a quick manner. These courses are offered by different academic departments of UNISA's colleges.

The application for Short Learning Programmes at the university is open. All applications must be submitted online, and applicants can only apply for a maximum of two Short Learning Programmes in order of preference. Note that you can only register for one programme at a time.

All applications must be submitted online via the application tool. You will be required to upload supporting documents when submitting your application.

How long does UNISA take to process applications?

The University of South Africa may take up to three months to review your documents because it receives thousands of forms yearly. Once reviewed, the institution will offer feedback on whether your application was accepted or rejected.

Do you have to apply every year at UNISA?

At UNISA, you generally need to apply for admission for each academic year or semester, even if you are a returning student. This applies to both new applicants and students who are changing qualifications or wish to re-register.

What time do UNISA applications open?

UNISA applications for 2026 are not open. The institution will communicate the timelines in August 2025.

When is the UNISA application 2026 opening date for undergraduates?

The UNISA online application for undergraduates in 2026 is not open, but is expected to commence on 1 September 2025. It is advisable to monitor the UNISA website and social media channels for more updates.

When is the UNISA application 2026 opening date for postgraduates?

The UNISA online application for 2026 postgraduate courses is not open.

What are the dates for UNISA application for 2026 Higher Certificates?

The official application dates for 2026 Higher Certificate qualifications have not been communicated by the institution.

When is the UNISA late application for 2026?

UNISA's late applications for the 2026 academic year are not yet open. Typically, the school takes late applications for undergraduate qualifications when the first semester opens in January, specifically from the 13th to the 27th of January.

Late applications may also be available for the second semester. It is best to check the UNISA website for the most up-to-date information on application dates and deadlines as they become available.

Which courses are still available at UNISA for 2026?

Hundreds of courses are still available at UNISA for the 2026 academic year. UNISA offers a wide range of courses across various faculties. These include qualifications in Accounting Sciences, Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Economic and Management Sciences, Science, Engineering and Technology, Education, Human Sciences, and Law.

If you are interested in joining the institution, visit its official website to view the complete list of available programmes.

Can you apply to UNISA without matric?

You cannot study at UNISA without matriculation. If you have not completed matric or your results do not grant you admission to UNISA, you may want to consider other study alternatives related to your career goals.

UNISA application enquiries contact details

If you are looking for UNISA contact details for registration or application, you can reach them through the following:

When is the TUT application for 2026?

Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) applications for the 2026 academic year will open on April 1, 2025, and close on September 30, 2025. It is recommended to apply early, as some courses may have limited space.

If you desire a world-class education, you should send your UNISA application for 2026 in time for consideration for a slot. The university receives numerous applications each year, so you are encouraged to submit yours early.

Briefly.co.za published a list of universities with low entry requirements in South Africa. The primary goal of education is to provide learners with opportunities that can help them reach their full potential and develop their talents and personalities.

Universities with low entry requirements in South Africa understand this vital task. That is why they have set APS scores that are attainable to most high school graduates, which encourage them to advance their education.

Source: Briefly News