Categories: University Application

Unisa Applications 2026: Opening Dates, Requirements & How to Apply

With 2025 now at its halfway mark, students across South Africa and beyond are actively searching online for reputable universities to apply to for the 2026 academic year. One of the top institutions on many prospective students’ lists is the University of South Africa (Unisa), renowned as the country’s largest open distance learning university.

If you’re eager to study at Unisa in 2026, you’re probably wondering: When do Unisa applications open? What documents will I need? And how can I secure my spot? In this article, we’ll answer all your questions and guide you through the application process.

What You Need to Know

Unisa is the largest open-distance learning university in South Africa. The University of South Africa (Unisa) offers a wide range of qualifications across various academic levels and fields of study, making it one of the most accessible and diverse institutions in South Africa. Here’s a breakdown of the qualifications available at Unisa:

🎓 Qualifications Offered at Unisa

Higher Certificates

These are entry-level qualifications that typically require a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with minimum admission points. They are ideal for students who may not qualify for diploma or degree studies yet.

Diplomas

Diplomas offer both theoretical and practical knowledge and are designed to prepare students for specific careers.

Advanced Certificates & Advanced Diplomas

These qualifications provide further specialization in a particular field, usually requiring a prior diploma or degree.

Bachelor Degrees

These are undergraduate qualifications that usually take 3 to 4 years to complete and provide in-depth academic training in a chosen field.

Honours Degrees

Honours degrees are postgraduate qualifications that provide advanced knowledge and are often required for entry into Master’s programmes.

Postgraduate Diplomas

These are specialized qualifications that build on a bachelor’s degree and prepare students for advanced professional practice.

Master’s Degrees

These are research- or coursework-based qualifications that develop expert-level knowledge in a specific discipline.

Doctoral Degrees (PhD)

Unisa offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) qualifications in various disciplines for students interested in high-level academic research.

💡 Note:

Admission requirements, duration, and availability of qualifications may vary by faculty and programme. It’s essential to consult the official Unisa website or the prospectus for the most current information and course details.

🗓 When Are Unisa Applications Opening for 2026?

Set a reminder! UNISA’s 2026 application window opens on Monday, 18 August 2025, and closes on Friday, 10 October 2025. Start gathering your documents now to submit your application early and avoid any delays.

🧾 Essential Documents for Your Unisa Application

To apply successfully to Unisa, you’ll need to gather and upload a set of required documents. These must be scanned as separate files, with each file no larger than 2MB and saved in PDF, Word (DOC), or TIF format.

Here’s what you need:

A copy of your Senior Certificate or National Senior Certificate
A copy of your official academic records (if applicable)
A valid South African ID or passport (for international students)
A copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)
Proof of payment for the R140 application fee

💡 Tip: Use Unisa’s application checklist to ensure nothing is missed before you submit.

How to Apply at UNISA for 2026

Here are the Simple Steps to apply to the University of South Africa (UNISA)

Go to www.unisa.ac.za
Choose your qualification type – either Undergraduate or Postgraduate.
Read the instructions from Step 1 to Step 3 carefully.
Click on “Apply for Admission”.
Read the new page carefully before moving on.
Select if you’re a first-time or returning applicant.
Enter your ID or passport number.
Fill in your details correctly.
Upload the required documents.
Submit your application – once it’s successful, you’ll get a student number automatically.

❓FAQs About 2026 Unisa Applications

📅 When will Unisa open applications for the 2026 academic year?

UNISA has announced that its 2026 application cycle will open on Monday, 18 August 2025, and close on Friday, 10 October 2025. You are encouraged to apply as soon as the portal opens.

✅ What are the eligibility requirements for Unisa?

Applicants must have the appropriate school-leaving qualification, such as an NSC, and meet the APS requirements for their chosen course. A valid email address and cellphone number are also required.

🧾 What documents do I need to apply to Unisa?

You’ll need to upload:

School qualifications (NSC or equivalent)
Academic transcripts (if applicable)
ID/passport
Marriage/divorce documents (if applicable)
Proof of R140 application fee payment

💰 How much is the application fee?

The Unisa application fee is R140. This non-refundable fee must be paid before the application closing date. Note: Unisa does not accept in-person payments—use a bank deposit or EFT.

🎯 Final Thoughts

While waiting for the official application dates to be announced, use this time wisely by reviewing your application documents to ensure they are complete, accurate, and that your details—especially your name—are consistent across all documents. It’s also a good idea to scan and save these documents in a well-organized folder for easy access. Additionally, go through Unisa’s previous prospectus to confirm that you meet the admission criteria for the qualification you intend to apply for. Being well-prepared in advance can help streamline your application process when submissions open. Stay organized, be proactive, and don’t miss out on your opportunity to study in 2026!