The University of South Africa (UNISA) is presenting a limited opportunity for prospective students to apply for selected undergraduate qualifications, honours degrees, and postgraduate diplomas for its Semester 2 intake in 2026. It's vital to understand that this is not a general reopening of applications for all courses. UNISA will directly contact eligible students who meet specific criteria for these particular undersubscribed programmes.
If you have been identified by UNISA or are looking to commence your academic journey mid-year, grasping the key dates is essential for a seamless application and registration process. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the UNISA Semester 2 2026 intake.
Understanding the UNISA Semester 2 Intake 2026: A Focused Opportunity
UNISA's Semester 2 intake for 2026 is specifically tailored for a select group of undersubscribed qualifications. This means that not all courses will be available, and direct communication from UNISA is the primary method to confirm your eligibility. This mid-year opportunity allows UNISA to fill spaces in programmes that did not reach their enrollment targets during the main application period. Applicants must meet the general and specific entry requirements for the qualification they are interested in.
Key Fact: This intake is highly restricted and not a general reopening of all applications. Only eligible students and applicants will be contacted directly by UNISA via official email or SMS.
Crucial Dates for UNISA Semester 2, 2026 Applications and Registration
Mark your calendars carefully! Missing these deadlines could mean a significant delay in starting your studies, potentially pushing your academic aspirations to the January 2027 intake. UNISA rarely extends deadlines.
Key Dates You Must Know:
- Registration for identified new students (temporarily registered): 20 May – 15 June 2026
- Applications open for selected undersubscribed undergraduate qualifications: 3 June – 17 June 2026
- Semester 2 registration for all eligible undergraduate qualifications, honours degrees, and postgraduate diplomas with semester modules: 29 June – 23 July 2026
- Classes commence for Semester 2: July 2026
- Application closing date: 17 June 2026
- Registration closing date: 23 July 2026
UNISA Admission Requirements for Semester 2, 2026
To be considered for admission to UNISA for Semester 2, 2026, you must meet a combination of statutory and college-specific requirements. A strong Academic Points Score (APS) is crucial, along with the correct endorsement on your National Senior Certificate (NSC) – whether it's for a Bachelor's, Diploma, or Higher Certificate pass.
Generally, English proficiency is required at NSC Level 4 (Home Language) or Level 5 (First Additional Language). For first-time UNISA applicants, completing the First-Year Experience MOOC (massive open online course) is a mandatory step before you can accept an offer.
Important Note: Meeting all general and specific admission requirements does not guarantee an offer due to limited spaces. The minimum APS score varies significantly between colleges and qualifications, so it's essential to check the specific requirements for each qualification on the UNISA admissions page.
UNISA Application Fee 2026: Payment Details and Deadlines
An application fee of R150.00 is required for all online applications. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid on or before the application closing date, which is 17 June 2026. Late payments will not be processed, so ensure this is handled well in advance of the deadline.
Payments can be made via bank deposit/EFT or online through myUNISA. When making a payment, use your student number and the application fee allocation number as a reference. Please note that UNISA does not accept cash payments at its offices.
Tip: The application fee must be paid on or before the application closing date (17 June 2026), as late payments will not be processed. Visit UNISA's fee payment page for more information.
Maximising Your Chances: Application Strategy and Important Considerations
Since this Semester 2 intake is highly restricted, your application strategy needs to be precise. You are allowed to apply for a maximum of three qualifications, which you should rank by preference. However, you can only register for one qualification if successful.
Key Considerations:
- Direct Contact is Key: Only eligible students and applicants will be contacted directly by UNISA.
- Strict Deadlines: UNISA rarely extends deadlines. Missing a closing date means you will likely need to wait until the January 2027 intake.
- Offer Acceptance: If you receive an offer, it must be accepted or declined within the prescribed period. Failure to do so will result in the offer being withdrawn.
- Registration is Crucial: If you accept an offer but do not register for the relevant semester, you will need to re-apply during the next application period.
- One Registration: You can only register for one qualification, even if you receive multiple offers.
The UNISA Semester 2 2026 intake presents a valuable, albeit highly selective, chance for eligible students to commence or advance their studies mid-year. Success hinges on meticulous attention to detail, especially regarding application and registration dates, meeting specific entry requirements, and timely fee submission.
Stay organised, verify all details on the official UNISA website, and ensure you are prepared to act swiftly when opportunities arise. Being informed and proactive is your best strategy for securing a place at UNISA during this limited mid-year intake.
