Bridging courses at UNISA: list, form, guide, cost, application processes
Are you dreaming of furthering your studies but didn’t quite meet the entrance requirements? Bridging courses at UNISA pave the way for students who want to achieve their academic goals and pursue their dream careers. In 2026, these programs stand as a beacon of hope for aspiring undergraduates, offering tailored pathways into various fields, from medicine to engineering and beyond.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- List of bridging courses at UNISA
- When can I apply for a bridging course at UNISA?
- Is a higher certificate a bridging course?
- How long does it take to complete a bridging course?
- How much is a bridging course at UNISA?
- Are there online bridging courses at UNISA?
- Does NSFAS pay for a bridging course at UNISA?
- Is there a bridging course for Accounting at UNISA?
- Are there free bridging courses at UNISA?
Key takeaways
- Bridging courses at UNISA in 2026 are your ticket to studying toward your dream career, especially if the qualification you aim for is a degree.
- With options like maths and science bridging courses at UNISA, the institution also offers a bridging course for teaching and psychology.
- The courses help you to reach your goals even if your matric marks are below standard.
List of bridging courses at UNISA
University of South Africa (UNISA) offers various bridging courses across different faculties. So, what are the bridging courses at UNISA?:
- Bridging courses for teaching
- Bridging courses for medicine
- Bridging courses for nursing
- Bridging courses for engineering
- Bridging courses for mathematics
- Bridging Health Sciences course
Who qualifies for a bridging course?
The specific requirements for bridging courses at UNISA can vary depending on the program and the student's academic background. General requirements include:
- A valid South African ID or passport
- Matriculation certificate or equivalent qualification
- Specific subject prerequisites (e.g., mathematics, English)
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How to apply for a teaching bridging course at UNISA?
To apply for a bridging course or preparatory programme at UNISA, follow these general steps below:
- Visit the official UNISA website.
- Click on the "Apply" option.
- Choose "Short Learning Programmes."
- Select "Apply for admission."
- Under "How to apply?" click on "Apply online."
- Choose "Short Learning Programmes."
- Indicate whether you have a student number starting with "7" (YES) or not (NO).
- Enter your personal details.
- Choose the qualification you wish to apply for and provide the necessary details to continue.
Note: Application and registration for UNISA's short learning programmes were open from 18 May to 23 July 2026.
When can I apply for a bridging course at UNISA?
You can apply for a bridging course (often structured as a Higher Certificate) at the University of South Africa during specific official application periods. Main application cycles typically open annually around August to September for the following academic year, and select undergraduate or limited programs occasionally open mid-year (such as June 3 to June 17).
Is a higher certificate a bridging course?
Higher certificates can be classified as one, especially since you study for around a year during these certificates, giving you an excellent introduction to your chosen field of study. A higher education certificate at UNISA is a prime example of what is considered a bridging course.
This may not be the case for every qualification; some specific instances, like a life science bridging course, may have different requirements. So, you should check in with your learning institution beforehand to avoid disappointment.
How long does it take to complete a bridging course?
The length of university bridging courses may vary depending on the programme and institution; however, you can expect it to take anywhere from six months to a year. You should contact a consultant to confirm how long your relevant programme will take.
How much is a bridging course at UNISA?
The cost of bridging courses at UNISA varies depending on the course and duration. On average, these courses can cost anywhere between R2,000 and R10,000 per module. It's important to check the specific fees for your chosen course on the UNISA website.
Are there online bridging courses at UNISA?
UNISA delivers bridging courses (such as higher certificates) through online and blended learning modes. As an open distance and e-learning institution, study materials, assignments, and tutorials are accessed digitally via the myUnisa platform, supplemented by printed formats for specific blended modules.
Does NSFAS pay for a bridging course at UNISA?
These courses naturally come at your own expense, and some may wonder if they can receive assisted funding to alleviate the financial burden. Unfortunately, NSFAS does not provide financial assistance for bridging courses at institutions.
Is there a bridging course for Accounting at UNISA?
Yes, UNISA offers an Advanced Diploma in Accounting Sciences (CTA Stream) which serves as a bridging course for candidates who have not completed a SAICA-endorsed BCom degree but wish to enter the Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA) program. Additionally, students can use lower-level qualifications like a Higher Certificate in Accounting as a stepping stone.
Are there free bridging courses at UNISA?
While UNISA might not offer entirely free bridging courses, it may provide financial aid or bursaries to eligible students.
Bridging courses at UNISA offer a valuable opportunity for students who do not meet the standard admission criteria but are determined to pursue higher education. By understanding the available courses, application processes, and associated costs, prospective students can take the necessary steps to achieve their academic and career goals.
Briefly.co.za shared a post on nursing courses available and colleges in South Africa to which you can apply. Nursing is one of the best jobs in the world today. If you wish to pursue a career in nursing, learn about the different courses one can take to get into this profession.
Nursing is considered one of the most important professions in the world today. This is because it keeps the healthcare sector of a nation functional.
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Justine De Lange (Lifestyle writer) Justine De Lange has over 6 years of experience in lifestyle, corporate and freelance writing. She started at Now Media for their lifestyle publication 'Let's Go', then joined 'travSIM' and 'Metavaro'. She now writes for Briefly News as a content writer, working with beats such as studies, services, business tips, and celebrity biographies (joined in 2022). In 2023, Justine finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. You can contact her directly via JustinedeLange14@gmail.com.
