The University of South Africa (Unisa) has officially reopened applications for selected undergraduate qualifications for the 2026 academic year.
Prospective students have a limited opportunity to apply between 3 June and 17 June 2026. Applications are only open for specific qualifications with available spaces, and all applications must be submitted before the closing date.
If you want to study at South Africa’s largest distance-learning university, now is the time to secure your place.
Unisa Applications Open for Limited Qualifications
Unisa has confirmed that applications have reopened for selected undergraduate qualifications only.
Applicants should note that not all qualifications are available during this application window. Admission will depend on the number of spaces available in each qualification and whether applicants meet the required admission criteria.
Application Period
- Opening Date: 3 June 2026
- Closing Date: 17 June 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Who Must Apply?
Everyone planning to start a new qualification at Unisa must apply for admission.
This includes:
- First-time Unisa applicants
- Current Unisa students changing qualifications
- Students changing their specialisation
- Applicants who previously applied but were not offered a space
- Applicants who accepted an offer but did not register
- Students completing a Higher Certificate who want to continue with undergraduate studies
- Students enrolling through the Unisa-TVET College partnership programme
Even if you studied with Unisa before, you may still need to submit a new application depending on your circumstances.
Getting Accepted Is Not Automatic
Many applicants assume that meeting the minimum admission requirements guarantees acceptance. However, Unisa has made it clear that admission remains competitive.
Students are selected based on:
- Final Grade 12 results
- Academic Points Score (APS)
- Qualification-specific requirements
- Available spaces within the qualification
- Various equity and access considerations
Because space is limited, meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee admission.
How the Unisa Selection Process Works
Unisa uses a selection process designed to promote fair and equitable access to higher education while maintaining academic standards.
As part of the process, Unisa calculates an individual points score using factors such as:
- Grade 12 performance
- School background
- Socio-economic factors
- Equity considerations
- Qualification demand and capacity
Applicants are encouraged to carefully check the admission requirements and APS requirements before applying.
You Can Apply for Up to Three Qualifications
Applicants may select a maximum of three qualifications when applying.
These qualifications must be ranked according to preference.
Important points to remember:
- You may apply for up to three qualifications.
- You can only register for one qualification.
- If accepted for multiple qualifications, you may only accept one offer.
- Accepting one offer automatically cancels the others.
Choosing your qualifications carefully can improve your chances of securing a study opportunity.
What Happens After You Apply?
After submitting your application, Unisa will assess your eligibility and inform you of the outcome.
If your application is successful:
- Unisa will offer you a space.
- You must accept or decline the offer within the specified period.
- Failure to respond before the deadline may result in the offer being withdrawn.
- Your space may then be allocated to another applicant.
Applicants who accept an offer must register for the relevant study period.
Failure to register will require a new application during a future application cycle.
First-Time Applicants Must Complete a MOOC
Students applying to Unisa for the first time will be required to complete the First-Year Experience Massive Open Online Course (MOOC).
Completion of the course is required before applicants can accept Unisa’s admission offer.
The programme is designed to help new students prepare for distance-learning studies and improve their chances of academic success.
Higher Certificate Students Must Reapply
Students who are currently completing a Higher Certificate qualification should note that they must submit a new application if they wish to continue with undergraduate studies.
Completion of a Higher Certificate does not automatically result in admission to a degree programme.
Why Unisa Uses a Selection Process
According to the university, the application and selection process helps:
- Address historical inequalities
- Improve student support
- Align student intake with available resources
- Maintain academic standards
- Improve student success rates
The process ensures that available academic capacity is used effectively while providing opportunities to deserving applicants.
Key Dates to Remember
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 3 June 2026 |
| Applications Close | 17 June 2026 |
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Unisa applications close for 2026?
Applications close on 17 June 2026.
Can I apply for more than one qualification?
Yes. You may apply for up to three qualifications in order of preference.
Do current Unisa students need to apply?
Yes, if they are changing qualifications or specialisations.
Does meeting the admission requirements guarantee acceptance?
No. Admission depends on available spaces and the selection process.
What happens if I do not accept my offer?
Your offer may be withdrawn and allocated to another applicant.
Do Higher Certificate students need to apply again?
Yes. Students wishing to continue with undergraduate studies must submit a new application.
Final Thoughts
With applications open for only a limited period, prospective students should act quickly to avoid missing the opportunity to study through Unisa in 2026.
Before applying, ensure that you meet the admission requirements, check the APS score for your chosen qualification, and prepare all required supporting documents. Submitting a complete and accurate application can significantly improve your chances of receiving an offer.