The University of South Africa (UNISA) provides a convenient online application process for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs for the 2024-2025 academic year. The application portal is open from 11 August 2023 to 14 October 2023. This guide offers step-by-step instructions for applying, important dates for different qualifications, and other essential information about the process. Although UNISA, South Africa’s largest university, has not yet opened applications for 2025, many other universities in the country have already done so.
UNISA uses an Open Distance e-learning (ODeL) approach, allowing students to study from home without attending in-person classes. In recent years, exams have also been conducted online. UNISA’s ODeL status makes it an ideal choice for many people, regardless of their personal circumstances, work commitments, or lifestyle.
UNISA SLPs Application Dates And Fees
UNISA’s application period for Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) runs from 21 November 2018 to 31 January 2024/2025. SLPs are specialized courses offered by various academic departments, designed to address specific learning needs identified by individuals, companies, or society. Registration for first-semester courses is from 3 January 2024/2025 to 15 February 2024/2025. Year-long course registration continues until 15 March 2024/2025. Second-semester registration dates are not yet confirmed, so keep checking the official site or contact ucl@unisa.ac.za. There is no application fee for SLPs.
Application Fee
UNISA requires an application fee for both online and hard copy submissions, which is non-refundable regardless of the application outcome. The fee is only payable after you receive a student number from the system. The fee is R105 for online applications and R160 for hard copy submissions, specifically for non-degree purposes. For banking details, refer to UNISA’s payment methods link. Note that cash payments are not accepted, and applications submitted without the required fee will not be processed. Always keep a record of your transaction.
Acceptable Payment Methods
- Credit cards
- Bank deposit
- Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)
- UNISA web credit card payments
- Debit cards
- International students: Telegraphic Money Order (TMO)
- Postal orders, money orders
- Payments by employers/sponsors/donors & bulk payments
Required Documents
When applying for a new qualification, you must upload the following documents:
- Copy of school qualification
- ID copy for RSA students, or ID/passport for international students
- Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)
- Document translation if not in Afrikaans or English
- Official copy of tertiary academic record (if applicable)
These simplified instructions and detailed steps should help you navigate the UNISA application process smoothly.
UNISA Late Application
UNISA will announce the dates for late applications for 2024 on their official website at www.unisa.ac.za. Note that late applications may have different deadlines and availability for specific programs.
How to Apply for UNISA Online Application 2024-2025?
- Go to www.unisa.ac.za.
- Find the “Apply” or “Admissions” section on the homepage to access the application portal.
- If you’re applying for the first time, create an account on the MyUNISA portal.
- If you already have a MyUNISA account, log in using your credentials.
- Browse the available qualifications and choose the one you want to apply for.
- Fill in all the required information accurately, including personal details, academic history, and program-specific information.
- Upload necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts, certificates, and identification, in the specified format.
- Pay the application fee online and keep the payment confirmation for reference.
- Double-check all entered information and uploaded documents before submitting your application.
UNISA Online Application 2024-2025 Review Process
Each application submitted to UNISA is reviewed individually by Admissions Officers. There is no specific formula for making admission decisions; each application is assessed based on its merits and alignment with program requirements.
Supporting Documents for Online Application for UNISA 2024-2025
Applicants must upload the following documents when applying for a new program:
- Copy of ID document (for RSA students) or ID/passport (for international students).
- Translated copies of documents if they are not in English or Afrikaans.
- Copy of school qualifications, Senior Certificate, and National Senior Certificate.
- Copy of marriage certificate (if applicable) or divorce decree (if applicable).
- Official tertiary academic records (if applicable).
UNISA reserves the right to revoke an offer of admission if the applicant does not meet statutory, college, or minimum admission requirements for the chosen degree.
UNISA Registration for 2024-2025 Academic Year: How to Register
Registration Dates: Online registration for Undergraduate and Honours programs at UNISA will be open from 14 May to 19 July 2024. If you do not register for the 2024 academic year, you will need to reapply during the 2024-2025 application period.
Steps to Register Online at UNISA
- Go to UNISA’s registration page.
- Carefully read all the instructions displayed on the screen.
- Select your qualification level and click “GO”.
- Follow the prompts and answer any questions that appear.
- Enter your student number and other required information. If you do not have a student number, you cannot proceed.
- Verify your personal information on the screen. Correct any errors to ensure accuracy.
- Choose the modules you wish to register for from the drop-down list. Ensure you qualify for the modules selected and do not exceed the prescribed number of modules per semester or year to avoid delays.
- Use the provided tools to calculate your study fees.
- Submit your registration for evaluation.
By following these steps, you can successfully register for the 2024-2025 academic year at UNISA. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can refer to the instructions provided on the registration portal.