Planning to study at the University of South Africa (UNISA) in 2026? Applications for undergraduate qualifications will open from 18 August to 10 October 2025. Although the application window is not yet open, it's important to start preparing now to avoid missing out.
UNISA 2026 Applications Opening Soon: Prepare to Apply
When to Apply for UNISA 2026 Applications
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Application opens: 18 August 2025
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Application closes: 10 October 2025
All applications must be submitted online within this period. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Who Must Apply for UNISA 2026 Applications?
You must apply for admission if:
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You’re a first-time UNISA applicant
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You’re a current UNISA student changing qualifications or specialisations
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You’ve previously applied and were not offered a space or didn’t register
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You’ve completed a Higher Certificate or any programme and want to further your studies
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You plan to study at a TVET College under the UNISA-TVET agreement
Get Ready: What You Need Before You Apply for UNISA 2026 Applications
Before the application period begins, make sure the following is in place:
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You meet the admission and APS requirements for your chosen qualification
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You have a valid email address and cellphone number
(UNISA uses these to communicate with you) -
All required supporting documents are scanned, clear, and under 2MB in size
Documents You Will Need to Apply for UNISA 2026 Applications
Ensure these documents are ready and correctly scanned:
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Senior Certificate / National Senior Certificate
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Official academic records (if applicable)
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RSA ID / Passport
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Marriage certificate / divorce decree (if applicable)
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Sworn translations of any documents not in English or Afrikaans
⚠️ Submit only the required documents as individual files in PDF, DOC, or TIF format.
How the Unisa 2026 Application Process Works
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Apply Online
Visit the UNISA application portal when applications open:
UNISA Application Tool -
Upload Documents
Upload all supporting documents before the closing date. -
Pay the Application Fee
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R150 (non-refundable)
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Only pay after receiving your student number
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Send proof of payment to susdepid@unisa.ac.za
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Use correct reference format:
StudentNumber 5370810030
Visit UNISA Fee Payment Info for banking details.
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Submit a Complete Application
Incomplete applications will not be processed. Double-check everything before submitting.
Choosing the Right Qualification
UNISA offers the following undergraduate qualifications:
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Higher Certificates
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Diplomas
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Bachelor Degrees
You may apply for up to three qualifications, but can only register for one once accepted.
Important Reminders
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Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
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You’ll need to complete the First-Year Experience MOOC before accepting your offer.
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If offered a place, you must accept it within 10 working days.
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If you don’t register, you’ll need to reapply in the next cycle.
UNISA 2026 Application Fee Details
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Fee: R150
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Due by: 10 October 2025
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Non-refundable, regardless of the outcome
Ensure your payment is made on time and keep your proof of payment.
UNISA Contact Details
For more information or assistance:
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Email: study-info@unisa.ac.za
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Call: 0800 00 1870 (Toll-free within South Africa)
Conclusion
Although applications for the 2026 academic year are not yet open, now is the time to gather your documents, verify your eligibility, and understand the process. When 18 August arrives, you’ll be ready to apply without delays or errors.
Stay informed and check the official UNISA website regularly for updates.
