UNISA PGCE application 2026: deadlines, requirements, cost

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a reputable institution of higher studies. It offers many academic programs, including a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). Learn more about the UNISA PGCE application 2026 today.

Key takeaways

• The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for individuals who already hold a relevant bachelor's degree and wish to qualify as professional teachers.
• After completing a PGCE course, one must register with the South African Council for Educators to become a licensed teacher.
• UNISA usually opens applications for PGCE programs once a year.

UNISA PGCE application 2026

UNISA is only offering the Intermediate and Senior Phases of PGCE until 2025. So, only continuing students (those who had previously registered for this qualification) are allowed to register for modules to be taught in 2026.

Are PGCE applications open at UNISA?

The UNISA PGCE application 2026 opening date has not been announced because the qualification is being completely phased out in the institution. Nonetheless, you can apply for alternative courses.

PGCE UNISA online application

Since the university is not accepting new PGCE applications, you can apply for an alternative course if you wish to join the institution.

To make an application for admission to a different program, visit the university's website, select the program you want, and complete the application process.

You may apply for a maximum of two qualifications, ranked in order of preference. You will only get admitted if you meet the requirements for the particular course.

Possible alternatives to PGCE

If you wish to become a teacher, a good starting place would be taking a Bachelor of Education degree (Intermediate and Senior Phase Teaching) course.

UNISA's Department of Higher Education and Training encourages young people to pursue this degree program because it leads to better employment opportunities.

How long is the PGCE at UNISA?

Students already admitted for this qualification take modules for six semesters (6 to 8 hours per week) or three years (4 to 6 hours per week).

What are the UNISA PGCE requirements?

You need an accredited Bachelor's degree (360 or 480 credits) and must have completed English or an applied language in English up to the third-year level.

You should have also completed Linguistics, African Literature, an African language, or Afrikaans up to the second-year level.

Students not meeting the above requirements should consider applying for a Bachelor of Education degree.

Can you do PGCE with a diploma at UNISA?

To do PGCE at UNISA, you need a Bachelor's degree (360 or 480 credits). Diploma applicants are not accepted.

How much is PGCE at UNISA?

The cost depends on the qualification and the number of modules you choose. The average student registers for 4 to 6 modules per year at a cost of between R1 815,00 and R7 550,00 per module (these amounts are subject to change).

The module costs do not include your books. So, consider books as an additional cost when calculating your UNISA PGCE fees.

Does NSFAS fund PGCE at UNISA?

NSFAS does provide funding for PGCE students. If you need financing for PGCE, apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary and other student aid programs for teaching courses.

Does UNISA offer PGCE in 2026?

The institution is still offering the qualification for continuing students admitted before 2026. There will be no new intake in 2026 or the coming years, and UNISA will not provide any new qualification to replace PGCE.

Can you do PGCE with a diploma at UNISA?

You cannot apply for this program for the 2026 academic year because it is no longer offered. Instead, you can select an alternative course once the applications are open.

When is the UNISA PGCE application 2026 closing date?

UNISA applications for PGCE are already closed and will not be opened again because the program is being phased out.

Is PGCE still open at UNISA?

UNISA does not accept online or walk-in applications for a PGCE program. The course is being completely phased out of this higher learning institute.

When to apply for 2026 at UNISA?

Applications for the 2026 academic year at UNISA will likely open around September to October 2025, based on their usual application cycle. However, exact dates will be confirmed on the UNISA website closer to the time.

Is PGCE still open at UNISA?

No, PGCE is no longer open at UNISA. The university has completely phased out the PGCE qualification. There are no new intakes for this program, and no alternative PGCE qualification will be offered at UNISA in the coming years.

When can you apply for the UNISA 2025 postgraduate?

Applications for UNISA's 2025 postgraduate programs are expected to open from September to November 2024. These dates may vary slightly, so it's important to regularly check the UNISA website for official announcements and deadlines.

Which courses are still available at UNISA for 2025?

UNISA offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in fields such as:

• Education (excluding PGCE)
• Business and Management
• Law
• Science, Engineering, and Technology
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Accounting and Finance
• Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

Many who desire to become teachers wish to learn more about the UNISA PGCE application in 2026. The general public should know that the institution is no longer offering PGCE modules for new students. Only continuing students can register for the UNISA PGCE modules for 2026.

Briefly.co.za listed all UNISA courses, requirements, fees, and contact details. Many South Africans desire higher education for various reasons, and UNISA is among the reputable institutions to join.

The institution offers higher certificates, advanced certificates, diplomas, and advanced diplomas. It also offers undergraduate, Baccalaureus Technologies, postgraduate programs, and short courses.

Source: Briefly News