Thinking about a career in teaching and considering the University of South Africa (Unisa)? The Unisa Bachelor of Education (BEd) is a highly sought-after initial teaching qualification, preparing you for impactful roles in various educational settings. As an Open Distance and E-Learning (ODeL) program, it offers flexibility while providing comprehensive training in both theory and practice. Understanding the specific admission criteria, including Academic Performance Scores (APS), subject prerequisites, and the application process, is crucial for a successful application for the 2027 academic year. This guide will walk you through all the essential details.
Understanding the Unisa Bachelor of Education (BEd)
The Unisa Bachelor of Education is a comprehensive 4-year qualification, comprising 480 credits, designed to equip you with the essential disciplinary, pedagogical, and practical knowledge needed to excel as a teacher in South Africa. The program includes a vital compulsory teaching practice component, requiring dedicated time for practical experience in schools annually. Furthermore, a key requirement for all BEd students is to register with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) from your first year of study.
Unisa BEd Admission Requirements: APS Scores & Subjects
General BEd Programmes (Foundation & Intermediate Phase)
For aspiring teachers focusing on the Foundation or Intermediate phases, a minimum Admission Point Score (APS) of 23 is required. Please note that for certain programs within this category, Life Orientation may be excluded when calculating your APS.
BEd Senior Phase and FET Phase Teaching
If your BEd focus is on teaching the Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET) phases, the minimum APS requirement is higher, set at 30.
Specific Qualification Entry Requirements
National Senior Certificate (NSC)
For applicants holding a National Senior Certificate (NSC), the following subject requirements apply: at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning, and either at least 40% in Mathematics OR 50% in Mathematical Literacy.
Senior Certificate (SC)
Applicants with a Senior Certificate (SC) who qualify for matriculation exemption need to achieve at least a D symbol on Higher Grade (HG) or a C symbol on Standard Grade (SG) in the language of teaching and learning. For Mathematics, the requirement is an F symbol on HG or an E symbol on SG.
National Certificate (Vocational) - NCV Level 4
Candidates applying with a National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4 qualification must have obtained at least 60% in three fundamental subjects, including the language of teaching and learning. Additionally, a minimum of 70% is required in four vocational subjects chosen from approved categories.
How to Apply for Your Unisa BEd Degree
Application Period for 2027
The application window for undergraduate qualifications, including the Bachelor of Education, for the 2027 academic year is from 17 August to 9 October 2026. It is crucial to submit your application well before the 9 October 2026 deadline.
Online Application Process
- Select Your Qualification: Choose the specific BEd programme that aligns with your career goals. You can list up to three qualifications in order of preference.
- Get Your Unisa Student Number: If you are a new applicant, a Unisa student number will be assigned to you during the online application process.
- Complete the Application Form: Accurately fill in all required personal and academic details on the official Unisa application portal.
- Upload Supporting Documents: You will need to upload certified copies of your South African ID, your matric certificate (or relevant highest qualification), and proof of payment for the application fee. Ensure all documents are clear and legible.
- Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of R160 is required for online applications. Detailed payment information can be found on the Unisa payment info page.
- Accept Your Offer: If your application is successful, Unisa will issue an offer of admission. You must formally accept or decline this offer online within the stipulated timeframe.
Important Note: Admission to Unisa BEd programmes is competitive and not guaranteed, even if minimum requirements are met. Unisa employs a selection process that considers APS scores, subject combinations, and the overall availability of spaces within the programme.
Important Considerations
Programme Duration: The BEd is a 4-year (480 credits) qualification.
Teaching Practice: This is a compulsory component, requiring 5 weeks of practical experience each year, with 3 of those weeks needing to be consecutive.
SACE Registration: All BEd students must register with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) starting from their first year of study.
Application Fee: The application fee for online applications is R160.
Starting your journey towards becoming a qualified teacher with Unisa's Bachelor of Education is an exciting and rewarding path. By thoroughly understanding the admission requirements, paying close attention to APS scores and subject prerequisites, and meticulously adhering to the application timelines, you significantly enhance your chances of a successful application.
Ensure all your documents are in order, navigate the online application system with care, and remember that meeting the academic criteria is the foundational step towards your teaching career.
