UNISA Applications 2025

Complete Guide to Distance Learning Admission

Overview

UNISA, established in 1873, is a comprehensive university offering vocational and academic programmes across eight colleges, including Economic and Management Sciences, Education, Law, and Science, Engineering, and Technology. With over 350,000 students and 500 qualifications, it’s accredited by the South African Council on Higher Education (CHE).

Student Population

350,000+

Students enrolled

Qualifications

500+

Programmes offered

Application Fee

R140

Non-refundable

Why Apply to UNISA in 2025?

Accessibility

Study remotely, ideal for working professionals or NSFAS students.

Affordability

Lower tuition costs compared to contact universities.

Flexibility

ODL allows self-paced learning with online resources.

Career Advancement

Enhances employability for roles like Assistant Teacher.

Global Recognition

Degrees recognized in many countries worldwide.

Eligibility

Undergraduate

  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent
  • Minimum APS (varies by programme)
  • Specific subject requirements

Honours & Postgrad

  • Relevant bachelor’s degree
  • Minimum 60% average
  • Limited spaces available

Master’s & Doctoral

  • Relevant honours/master’s degree
  • Research proposal required
  • Strict application deadlines

Exclusions:

  • Applicants not meeting APS or subject requirements
  • Late applications (except announced late windows)
  • Incomplete submissions

Key Dates and Deadlines

Undergraduate Qualifications:

  • Re-Opened Application: January 13–27, 2025
  • Semester 2 Application: April 14–May 9, 2025

Honours & Postgraduate Diplomas:

  • Re-Opened Application: January 13–27, 2025
  • Semester 2 Application: April 14–May 9, 2025

Master’s & Doctoral Degrees:

  • Re-Opened Application: November 23, 2024–January 31, 2025
  • Extended Registration: Until June 30, 2025

Short Learning Programmes:

  • Application & Registration: January 8–February 15, 2025

Required Documents

South African Applicants

  • Certified ID Document
  • School Qualifications (NSC)
  • Tertiary Academic Record
  • Proof of Payment (R140)

International Students

  • Passport copy
  • SAQA Evaluation
  • University Ledger
  • Sworn Translations

Note: All documents must be certified and uploaded in PDF format during online application.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1

Check Eligibility

Verify APS and subject requirements on UNISA website

2

Gather Documents

Certify ID, NSC, academic records

3

Apply Online

Complete form at www.unisa.ac.za and pay R140 fee

4

Track Application

Check status via www.unisa.ac.za/track

5

Register

If accepted, register by February 28, 2025

Challenges and Tips

Challenges

  • Limited spaces in competitive programmes
  • Late applications rarely accepted
  • Document certification issues
  • Technical barriers for rural students
  • Admission scams targeting applicants

Tips

  • Apply by January 27, 2025 for re-opened applications
  • Verify APS and subject requirements
  • Certify documents within 3 months
  • Activate myLife email for updates
  • Use only official UNISA portals
  • Report fraud to [email protected]

Conclusion

The UNISA application for 2025 offers access to flexible, accredited qualifications through Africa’s leading distance learning university. Apply online via www.unisa.ac.za by January 27, 2025 for re-opened undergraduate/honours programmes, submitting certified documents and R140 fee. UNISA qualifications support matric rewrite 2025, NSFAS studies, and Assistant Teacher roles, empowering your future. Apply now and shape your career through quality distance education.

Related Information

To explore financial aid options that can support your UNISA journey, check out our detailed guide on NSFAS Application 2025..