When will UNISA 2027 Applications Open
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is expected to open applications for the 2027 academic year in August or September 2025, based on its usual annual application cycle. UNISA typically follows a structured schedule, with undergraduate, honours, and postgraduate applications opening several months before the academic year begins. Prospective students should monitor UNISA’s official website (www.unisa.ac.za) and social media channels for the exact announcement, as dates may vary slightly depending on faculty and program availability.
Once applications open, students will have a limited window (usually 6–8 weeks) to submit their applications before the deadline. Some high-demand qualifications, such as law, education, and health sciences, may close earlier due to capacity constraints. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as the portal opens to avoid missing their preferred program. Additionally, returning students and those applying for financial aid (such as NSFAS) should ensure they meet all deadlines to secure registration and funding.
To prepare for the 2027 application period, prospective students should gather all required documents, including certified copies of their ID, academic transcripts, and proof of payment for the application fee (if applicable). UNISA’s online application system is user-friendly, but early preparation helps avoid last-minute technical issues. Keep an eye out for official announcements in mid-2025 to confirm exact dates and ensure a smooth application process for the 2027 academic year.
Tip: Subscribe to UNISA’s newsletter or follow their official pages for real-time updates on application openings.
When will UNISA 2027 Applications Open
If you are looking forward to studying at UNISA in the 2027 academic year, then you may be wondering when their applications will be opening. Keep reading to find out.
So when will UNISA applications for 2027 open?
The university has stated that they will be open and accepting online applications to the 2027-2027 academic year from 1 September 2027 and close on 15 December 2027.
The University of South Africa (Unisa) is an open distance e-learning university which allows students to pursue their studies by using online resources and study materials provided by Unisa themself.
Unisa offers a combination of career-orientated courses usually associated with a university of technology, combined with general formative academic programmes typically linked to a traditional university.
This university offers many certificates, degrees and diplomas at the bachelor, master and doctoral levels.
The criteria to be funded by NSFAS is as follows:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be accepted or applying to a Public South African University
- SASSA grant beneficiaries are immediately accepted
- Household income must come to below R350 000 per year
- People with disabilities need to have a household income which comes to below R600 000 per year
The NSFAS bursary covers more than just tuition. They also pay registration fees and provide various allowances for accommodation, learning material, living and transport.
NSFAS applications usually open in August or September every year for University students.
How to Apply UNISA Online Application 2027
- Go to UNISA Online Application portal
- A working email address
- your South African identity number
- If you are an international applicant, your passport number
Students may study full-time or part-time which allows them to work while studying, they also get to structure their own schedule in order to complete each course they are registered for.
Unisa students are also able to receive financial aid via a bursary from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), if they meet the criteria.
