Apply to UNISA 2027: Everything You Need to Know

By | July 28, 2025
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Apply to UNISA 2027: Everything You Need to Know

Apply to UNISA 2027: Everything You Need to Know

The University of South Africa (UNISA) has confirmed that applications for the 2027 academic year are officially open. Prospective students can now access the online portal to submit and upload their details for any new qualification.

Available Qualifications

UNISA offers a wide range of study options, including higher certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, master’s degrees, and doctorates. Short courses — some as brief as six months — are also available. Both contact and online study modes are offered to suit different students’ needs.

Application Period

The application window opens on Monday, 17 August, and closes on Friday, 9 October 2026. To be considered, applicants must complete the online form, upload all required documents, and pay the application fee before this deadline.

Who Should Apply

You qualify to apply if you fall into any of these categories:

  • You’re applying to UNISA for the first time.
  • You’re a current UNISA student wanting to switch qualifications or specialisations.
  • You applied previously but weren’t accepted, or didn’t register despite receiving an offer.
  • You’ve completed a higher certificate or similar qualification and want to continue studying at undergraduate level.

Documents You’ll Need

Have the following ready before starting your application:

  • School qualification certificates
  • Academic transcripts from any tertiary institutions attended
  • ID document or passport
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)
  • Certified translations for any documents not in English or Afrikaans

How to Apply

Visit www.unisa.ac.za and follow these steps:

  1. Click “Admissions.”
  2. Select “Apply for Admission.”
  3. Click “Apply Now.”
  4. Choose your qualification level (undergraduate, honours, postgraduate, etc.).
  5. Read through the on-screen instructions.
  6. Scroll down and click “Start the Process.”
  7. Enter your national ID number.
  8. Tick the box to give POPI Act consent.
  9. Click “Next.”
  10. Complete your personal and contact details.
  11. Indicate whether you have a disability.
  12. Click “Next” after each section.
  13. Choose up to two courses of study.
  14. Enter your academic history (institutions attended, results achieved).
  15. Fill in all remaining required fields.
  16. Upload your supporting documents in the correct format and size.
  17. Check your application carefully and fix any mistakes.
  18. Click “SUBMIT” before the deadline.
  19. You’ll receive your student number by email or SMS once submitted.

Document Upload Requirements

All outstanding documents must be uploaded by 9 October 2026 — nothing submitted after this date will be processed. Make sure your files:

  • Are in PDF, DOC, or TIF format
  • Are under 2MB each
  • Are scanned in black and white
  • Are uploaded individually, one document per file

Application Fee

First-time applicants must pay a non-refundable R150 application fee (in South African Rand), which becomes due once you’ve received your student number.

How to Pay

Payment must be completed before the closing date using an approved method, such as EFT or a direct bank deposit. Cash payments won’t be accepted.

Choosing Your Qualifications

You may list up to three qualifications in order of preference, but can only register for one, even if accepted into all three. UNISA will inform you of the outcome and, if successful, confirm which qualification and intake period you’ve been offered.

Meeting Entry Requirements

Acceptance depends on meeting the specific requirements for your chosen qualification. If you fall short, it’s worth exploring alternative options — download the prospectus for guidance. Note that some qualifications have limited spaces, so meeting the minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee a place for 2027.

How Applications Are Assessed

UNISA reviews each application based on three main factors:

  • Whether you meet the academic requirements for your chosen qualification
  • Your Admission Point Score (APS)
  • The number of available spaces in that qualification

Need Help? Contact UNISA

Phone: 0800 075 278 / 0800 00 1870 Email: unisa@thehotline.co.za

Visit the official UNISA website for further information.

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