The University of South Africa (UNISA) remains one of the most popular higher education institutions in the country, especially for students who need flexibility, affordability, and access to quality distance learning. If you are planning to study in 2027, the UNISA 2027 Prospectus is the starting point for understanding what the university offers, how to qualify, and how to apply successfully.
Unlike many universities, UNISA does not release a single downloadable PDF prospectus. Instead, all qualifications, admission requirements, and module details are published through an online prospectus system on the official UNISA website. This guide explains exactly how to use the UNISA 2027 prospectus, what information you will find there, and how to prepare for your application.
University of South Africa (UNISA) 2027 Prospectus
The UNISA 2027 Prospectus is an online database of all qualifications offered by the university for the 2027 academic year. It replaces the traditional printed prospectus and allows applicants to access real-time, up-to-date information directly from UNISA.
Through the online prospectus, you can view:
- Undergraduate, honours, postgraduate diploma, master’s and doctoral qualifications
- Admission requirements for each qualification
- APS/AS score requirements
- Qualification codes and SAQA IDs
- NQF levels and total credits
- Maximum completion time
- Compulsory and elective modules
Because UNISA updates its online system regularly, the information you see is always more accurate than older PDF prospectuses shared online.
How to Access the UNISA 2027 Online Prospectus
Accessing the UNISA 2027 prospectus is simple and free. Follow these steps carefully:
- Go to the University of South Africa’s official website and navigate to the “Qualifications” or “Find a Qualification” section.
- Browse Available Qualifications
- You will see a full list of qualifications grouped into categories such as Higher Certificates, Diplomas, Advanced Certificates, Bachelor’s Degrees, Honours Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s and Doctoral Degrees
- You can also filter by college, such as College of Human Sciences,College of Accounting Sciences, College of Education, College of Law, College of Science, Engineering and Technology
- Click on the qualification you are interested in. This opens a detailed page showing all essential information you need before applying.
What Information You’ll Find in Each UNISA Qualification
Each qualification listed in the UNISA 2027 prospectus follows a structured format. Here is what to expect:
- Qualification Code – Used during application and registration
- NQF Level – Indicates the academic level of the qualification
- Total Credits – Shows the workload required to complete the qualification
- SAQA ID – Confirms national accreditation
- APS / AS Score – Minimum score required for admission
- Admission Requirements – School or prior qualification requirements
- Maximum Completion Time – How long you have to finish the qualification
- Modules – Compulsory and elective subjects
This structure makes it easier for applicants to compare qualifications and choose the one they qualify for.
To help you understand how the UNISA 2027 prospectus works, here is an example of a listed qualification:
Qualification Name: Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Communication Studies
Qualification Code: 99311 – GCS
NQF Level: 7
Total Credits: 360
SAQA ID: 14352
APS / AS: 20
Maximum Completion Time: 8 years
Admission Requirements: National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a degree endorsement, At least 50% in the language of teaching and learning OR Senior Certificate (SC) with matriculation exemption or equivalent qualification
This level of detail allows applicants to immediately see whether they qualify before applying.
Understanding UNISA Admission Requirements for 2027
Admission to UNISA is not automatic, even if you meet the minimum requirements. Entry is based on:
- Meeting the qualification-specific admission requirements
- Availability of space in the chosen qualification
- Completion of all required documents
Some qualifications are highly competitive and may close early, even if applications are still open.
UNISA 2027 Application Process Explained
Applying to UNISA for the 2027 academic year is done entirely online. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you avoid mistakes when applying:
Go to the official UNISA application website and choose whether you are applying for Undergraduate studies, Honours or postgraduate diploma, Master’s or doctoral studies
You will be asked whether you already have a UNISA student number. If yes, log in using your existing details. If no, the system will generate one for you
Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your ID document. Errors can delay your application.
Choose Your Qualifications. You may apply for up to two qualifications, provided that you meet the admission requirements, the qualification is open for applications. If you do not qualify, the system will block you from continuing.
Provide Address Details because UNISA is a distance learning institution, your physical and postal address is very important. Study materials and official communication depend on accurate address details.
Upload all the Required Documents such as ID and academic results
Submit Your Application. Once submitted, you will receive an acknowledgement message. Save your student number for future use.
UNISA 2027 Application Fee: What You Need to Know
All applicants applying to the University of South Africa (UNISA) for the 2027 academic year are required to pay a non-refundable application fee. This fee applies to all online applications, regardless of whether you are applying for undergraduate, honours, postgraduate diploma, or postgraduate qualifications.
Application Fee Amount for 2027:
Application Fee: R150 (non-refundable)
The application fee must be paid before your application can be processed. Submitting an application without payment will result in your application remaining incomplete, which may delay or prevent consideration.
It is important to note that the application fee is charged per application cycle, not per qualification. This means that even if you apply for two qualifications in one application, you only pay one application fee.
Accepted Payment Methods:
UNISA provides several convenient ways for applicants to pay the application fee:
1. Payment at an FNB Branch
Applicants can pay the application fee at any First National Bank (FNB) branch across South Africa. When making the payment:
Use your UNISA student number as the reference
Ensure the teller captures the reference correctly to avoid payment delays
2. Payment via the Capitec App
Capitec Bank clients can pay the UNISA application fee directly through the Capitec mobile banking app. This option is popular due to its convenience and speed. Always double-check that your student number is entered correctly before confirming the payment.
3. Other Approved Electronic Payment Options
UNISA also accepts payments through other approved electronic banking platforms, including EFTs from major South African banks. These options are useful for applicants who prefer online banking rather than visiting a branch.
Important Payment Guidelines:
Always use your student number as the payment reference
- Do not use your ID number, name, or phone number as a reference
- Incorrect references can result in payment delays or your application not being processed
- Once payment is made, allow a few working days for the payment to reflect on the UNISA system.
Why Choose UNISA for 2027?
UNISA offers several advantages that continue to attract thousands of students each year:
- Flexible distance learning
- Study while working
- Wide range of qualifications
- Recognised nationally and internationally
- Lower costs compared to contact universities
For many South Africans, UNISA remains the most practical path to higher education.
Contact UNISA for More Information
If you need help with the UNISA 2027 prospectus or application process, contact UNISA directly:
Telephone: 0800 00 1870
Email: study-info@unisa.ac.za
The UNISA 2027 Prospectus is your gateway to understanding everything the university offers — from available qualifications and admission requirements to application steps and funding options. While there is no downloadable PDF prospectus, UNISA’s online system provides detailed, up-to-date information that is far more reliable.
If UNISA is part of your 2027 study plans, start exploring the prospectus early, check that you qualify, prepare your documents, and apply as soon as applications open. Early preparation significantly improves your chances of securing a space at one of Africa’s largest and most respected universities.
