Great news for prospective students! The University of South Africa (Unisa) has opened a special application window for a limited number of qualifications for the 2026 academic year. This is a crucial opportunity for those looking to start or continue their higher education journey. With applications closing soon, it's vital to understand the process and prepare accordingly.
Unisa Applications Open: Key Dates for June 2026
The special application period for these limited Unisa qualifications is brief but important. Make sure to submit your application between 3 June 2026 and 17 June 2026. Both the application submission and the required application fee payment must be completed by the closing date of 17 June 2026.
General Application Requirements for Unisa
To apply for any qualification at Unisa, you must meet the statutory admission requirements and any specific criteria set by the relevant college. You will need a valid email address and cellphone number for all communication. All required supporting documents must be scanned and ready for upload during the online application process.
For Honours degrees and Postgraduate Diplomas, ensure that the qualification you choose directly aligns with your previous academic studies and meets its specific entry requirements.
Essential Documents for Your Unisa Application
- Certified copy of your South African ID or passport (for international applicants).
- Certified copy of your Senior Certificate (Matric) or National Senior Certificate (NSC), or your highest qualification obtained.
- Certified copies of official tertiary academic records, if applicable. Unisa does not accept internet copies.
- A university ledger or grading scale for international qualifications.
- A SAQA evaluation certificate for qualifications obtained outside South Africa (this may be required later in the process).
- Marriage certificate or divorce decree if your name differs on your supporting documents.
- Sworn translations if any of your documents are not in English or Afrikaans.
- [VERIFY: Specific departmental forms or a research outline and CV may be needed for certain postgraduate applications.]
Remember, you have 10 days after submitting your application to upload any outstanding supporting documents, provided your initial application was submitted before the closing date of 17 June 2026.
Understanding Unisa APS Scores and Application Fees
Unisa uses an Admission Point Score (APS) to assess applications. The minimum APS requirements vary significantly per qualification. As a general guide for the main application cycle, Higher Certificates typically need an APS of 15-18, Diplomas range from 19-21, and Bachelor's Degrees generally require 21-25. It is crucial to check the specific APS requirements for the qualification you are interested in on the Unisa website.
A non-refundable application fee of R150.00 is required for all online applications. This payment is necessary after you receive your student number and must be completed before the application closing date. Unisa does not accept cash payments at its offices. Accepted payment methods include bank deposit, EFT, credit card, or other online payment channels.
Important Unisa Application Policies
Please note that admission to Unisa is not automatic and is subject to meeting all requirements and available space in the chosen qualification. You are permitted to apply for a maximum of three qualifications, ranked by your preference, but you will only be able to register for one.
First-time Unisa students are required to complete the First-Year Experience MOOC. If you are offered a place, you must formally accept or decline the offer within the prescribed period. Failure to register after accepting an offer will necessitate a re-application for future study cycles.
All applications must be submitted online through the official Unisa admissions portal.
This limited application period for Unisa in June 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for prospective students. Ensure you thoroughly understand the requirements, have all your scanned documents ready, and submit your application and payment before the 17 June 2026 deadline. Don't miss out on the chance to further your education with one of South Africa's largest and most accessible open-distance learning institutions.
