UNISA application for 2025: deadlines, requirements, registration

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is among the top-ranking higher learning institutions in the country and on the continent. Did you know the university is the largest open distance learning institution in Africa? It stands out as a focal centre of academic excellence for learners seeking world-class education. Sending a UNISA application is relatively easy. Every year, the university receives thousands of applications.

Are you interested in joining UNISA to pursue your higher learning studies? The institution offers a wide range of courses at various levels of academic learning. If you meet the minimum requirements, send a UNISA application to secure a slot at the institution.

UNISA application for 2025: Everything you should know

You can pursue multiple UNISA courses, depending on your passion and interests. These range from certificate 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.

Read also

Which is the oldest university in the US? A top 11 guide

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

UNISA online application for 2025

The official UNISA 2025 application dates are 21 August to 11 October 2024 for undergraduate programmes. Note that postgraduate and short courses will have different dates. Applications for admission to master's and doctoral degrees will be open from 2 September to 22 November 2024.

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 at 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.

Read also

School holidays 2024 in South Africa: An essential guide

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

Application process

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

• Head to the university 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.

Read also

Top 15 affordable boarding schools in South Africa in 2023

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

How to track your 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.

How to pay the application fee at UNISA

All prospective students who apply online must pay a non-refundable application fee of R140. All prospective students must know about the UNISA application fee and banking details beforehand.

The application fee can be transferred electronically or deposited into the university’s bank account at any First National Bank (FNB) and ABSA Bank branches. Cash is not accepted at any office.

Read also

Sanlam student loans: Everything you ought to know before applying

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.

Application for Short Learning Programmes in 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.

Read also

Simplified NWU forgotten student number recovery process (2024)

Is UNISA open for 2025 undergraduate applications?

The 2025 UNISA application opening date for undergraduate programmes is 21 August 2024. The closing date will be 11 October 2024.

Which courses are still available at UNISA for 2025?

Hundreds of courses are still available at UNISA for the 2025 academic year. If you are interested in joining the institution, visit its official website to view the complete list of available programmes.

Can you apply at 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.

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

Read also

List of higher certificate courses at UNISA and their requirements as of 2024

Briefly.co.za recently 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