Application Information
Applications Open
14 April 2025
Applications Close
9 May 2025
No late applications accepted
Application Fee
R135 (Non-refundable)
About UNISA (University of South Africa)
UNISA is Africa's leading open distance learning institution, recognized globally for providing accessible, quality education to over 300,000 students across South Africa and internationally.
Our students are highly valued in the workplace, not only for their qualifications but also for their demonstrated work ethic, independence, perseverance, and self-discipline. UNISA learners typically exhibit greater maturity, effectively balancing their studies with work commitments and family responsibilities.
Why Choose UNISA?
Employers value UNISA graduates for their independence, time management skills, and ability to balance multiple commitments
Study anywhere, anytime - your classroom can be at home, work, or even while traveling. Education adapts to your schedule
State-of-the-art e-learning platform with comprehensive support services, accessible even without personal internet through UNISA telecentres
Access to myUnisa portal, online discussion forums, e-tutors, career counseling, and study support services
UNISA Colleges
UNISA operates through eight specialized colleges, each offering focused expertise in different academic areas:
College of Science, Engineering & Technology (CSET)
Develops future African science, engineering and technology leaders through innovative distance learning
College of Accounting Sciences
Premier accounting education provider with internationally recognized qualifications
College of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
Addressing Africa's agricultural and environmental challenges through distance education
College of Human Sciences
Comprehensive humanities, social sciences, and education programs
College of Law
Leading distance law education with practical legal training
College of Economic & Management Sciences
Business and management education for the African context
College of Education
Teacher education and educational leadership development
Graduate School of Business Leadership
Executive education and business leadership development
College of Science, Engineering & Technology (CSET)
The College of Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET) is dedicated to developing world-class, forward-thinking African leaders in science, engineering, and technology who push the boundaries of innovation.
CSET Vision & Mission
Vision: "To develop world class, futuristic, African science, engineering and technology leaders who aspire to extend the frontiers of innovation."
Mission: CSET provides graduates with an enabling environment for advancing science, engineering and technology knowledge that is nationally responsive and globally relevant.
Modern Facilities
The UNISA Science Campus features state-of-the-art laboratories, advanced equipment, 12 buildings, a library, two auditoriums, and extensive study areas. These facilities support both undergraduate and postgraduate education while attracting international scholars for collaborative research.
Qualifications Offered
UNISA offers a comprehensive range of qualifications through distance learning:
Higher Certificates
Entry-level qualifications
Diplomas
Career-focused programs
Bachelor's Degrees
Undergraduate degrees
Honours Degrees
Postgraduate specializations
Master's Degrees
Advanced postgraduate
Doctoral Degrees
Highest academic awards
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
UNISA recognizes that valuable learning occurs outside formal education. Through RPL, you can gain credits toward formal qualifications based on skills and knowledge acquired through work experience, short courses, or community involvement. Your prior learning is assessed against prescribed learning outcomes.
Email: [email protected] | Website: www.unisa.ac.za/rpl
Are You Ready for CODeL?
Comprehensive, Open, Distance and e-Learning (CODeL+) represents a different approach to education compared to traditional learning experiences. As a CODeL student, you take primary responsibility for your studies, with most interaction occurring through digital platforms.
Step 1: Assess Your Self-Discipline
Distance learning requires strong self-motivation and time management skills. Can you create and stick to a study schedule without regular classroom attendance?
Step 2: Evaluate Your Technology Access
While UNISA provides telecentre access, regular internet connectivity is beneficial. Assess your access to computers and online resources.
Step 3: Consider Your Learning Style
Do you learn effectively through independent study? Can you stay engaged with course materials without face-to-face interaction?
Step 4: Plan Your Support System
Identify how you'll access UNISA's support services (myUnisa, e-tutors, discussion forums) and establish a study environment.
Step 5: Prepare for Digital Communication
Most communication with lecturers and peers happens online. Are you comfortable with email, forums, and digital submissions?
Important Consideration
Distance education isn't suitable for everyone. It demands exceptional self-discipline, time management, and independent learning skills. However, for motivated students, it offers unparalleled flexibility to balance education with work and personal commitments.
Admission Requirements
General Admission Requirements
Admission depends on meeting specific requirements for your chosen qualification. Below are general guidelines:
| Qualification Level | Minimum Requirements |
|---|---|
| Higher Certificate | National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in language of instruction and 40% in Mathematics, or equivalent qualification |
| Diploma | NSC (Diploma endorsement) with specific subject requirements varying by program |
| Bachelor's Degree | NSC (Degree endorsement) with at least 50% in four subjects including language of instruction and Mathematics |
| Postgraduate | Appropriate undergraduate qualification with minimum average marks (typically 60%+) |
Important Notes
- Meeting minimum requirements doesn't guarantee admission due to space limitations
- Specific programs may have additional requirements
- International qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA
- RPL applications are considered for relevant prior learning
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through the UNISA application portal:
Application Process Steps:
- Choose Your Qualification: Select up to two qualifications in order of preference
- Complete Online Application: Fill in all required information accurately
- Upload Supporting Documents: Certified copies of ID, qualifications, and other required documents
- Pay Application Fee: R135 non-refundable fee (use student number as reference)
- Track Application: Monitor your application status through myUnisa
Required Documents
- Certified copy of ID document/passport
- Certified copy of school qualifications (NSC or equivalent)
- Certified copy of tertiary academic records (if applicable)
- Marriage/divorce documents (if applicable)
- Sworn translations for non-English/Afrikaans documents
Payment Information
Application fee: R135 (non-refundable). Visit www.unisa.ac.za/paymentinfo for banking details and payment methods. Credit card payments can be made securely on the UNISA website.
Student Support Services
UNISA provides comprehensive support to distance learning students through various channels:
myUnisa Portal
Primary online learning platform for course materials, assignments, and communication
myLife Email
Free student email account for official university communications
E-Tutors
Online tutors supporting groups of approximately 200 students in each undergraduate program
Regional Centres
28 service centres across South Africa providing in-person support and resources
Library Services
Africa's largest academic library with 2.7+ million resources, including extensive digital collections
Online Forums
Discussion platforms for student interaction and lecturer engagement
UNISA Contact Details
Main Campus
Address: Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria
GPS: -25.767438, 28.199325
Science Campus
Address: Christian de Wet Road, Florida Park, Roodepoort
State-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities
Official Websites
Main Website: www.unisa.ac.za
Application Portal: www.unisa.ac.za/apply
myUnisa: my.unisa.ac.za
Frequently Asked Questions
The application fee is R135 and is non-refundable. This fee applies to all applicants and must be paid before your application can be processed.
Semester 2 2025 applications open on 14 April 2025 and close on 9 May 2025. No late applications are accepted after this date.
CODeL (Comprehensive Open Distance e-Learning) is UNISA's approach to distance education, combining printed materials with online resources, digital interaction, and comprehensive student support services.
While internet access is beneficial for using myUnisa and online resources, UNISA provides telecentres where students without personal internet can access digital resources. However, regular internet access is recommended for optimal learning experience.
RPL allows you to receive credits toward formal qualifications based on knowledge and skills gained through work experience, short courses, or informal learning. Your prior learning is assessed against specific module outcomes.
UNISA offers comprehensive support including: myUnisa online portal, e-tutors, regional service centres, library services, online discussion forums, career counseling, and dedicated administrative support.
Completion times vary: Higher Certificates (1-2 years), Diplomas (3 years), Bachelor's degrees (3-4 years), Honours (1 year), Master's (2 years), Doctoral (3+ years). Distance learning allows flexible pacing within maximum time limits.