UNISA Online Application 2027 | Open From April to November

The University of South Africa (UNISA) has officially launched its 2027 online application cycle, inviting prospective students to pursue flexible, world-class distance learning qualifications. As Africa’s leading open distance learning institution, UNISA offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates across disciplines such as Business, Law, Education, Engineering, and Humanities.

The simplified online application process allows you to apply anytime, anywhere, with dedicated support for new applicants. Whether you’re a school-leaver, working professional, or international student, UNISA’s affordable, accessible education model provides the perfect opportunity to advance your career while balancing life’s commitments.

 

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of the largest distance learning institutions in the world, offering flexible learning options to students across South Africa and beyond. If you’re considering pursuing your higher education through UNISA in 2027, this detailed guide will walk you through the UNISA Online Application Process for the 2027 academic year. Whether you are applying for an undergraduate, postgraduate, or certificate program, this guide provides all the information you need to successfully submit your application.

Why Choose UNISA?

Before diving into the application process, let’s explore the reasons why UNISA might be the right choice for you:

1. Flexible Learning

UNISA is South Africa’s largest open distance learning university. The university’s online learning model provides flexibility, allowing you to study from anywhere in the world while balancing work, family, and other commitments.

2. Wide Range of Programs

UNISA offers a broad selection of undergraduate, postgraduate, and certificate programs across various disciplines:

• Humanities: Psychology, Sociology, History, and more.
• Business and Management: Business Administration, Marketing, HR, and more.
• Science: Environmental Science, Chemistry, and more.
• Law: LLB and other legal studies.
• Education: Primary and Secondary Education programs.

Whether you’re starting your undergraduate journey or advancing your career with a postgraduate qualification, UNISA provides a wide range of options.

3. Affordable Education

UNISA offers competitive tuition fees, making it an affordable option for many students, particularly those who need the flexibility to work while they study.

4. International Reach

UNISA offers programs to students not only in South Africa but across the globe. With a focus on online and distance learning, you can take your course from virtually anywhere in the world.

5. Accredited and Recognized

UNISA is a recognized public university and is accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and the Council on Higher Education (CHE). This means that the qualifications you earn are recognized in South Africa and internationally.

UNISA Online Application Process for 2027: Step-by-Step Guide

The UNISA application process is designed to be simple, but careful attention is required to ensure all the steps are followed correctly. Here’s your complete guide to applying for the 2027 academic year.

Step 1: Visit the UNISA Website

The first step is to visit the official UNISA website to start the application process.

Once on the homepage, look for the “Apply for Admission” or “Online Application” link. This will lead you to the online application portal.

Step 2: Create an Account

To apply online, you must first create an account with UNISA. If you do not already have an account, follow these steps:

1. Click on “Apply Now”.
2. Create an account by entering your personal details, such as your name, email address, contact number, and ID or passport number.
3. Choose your login credentials (username and password). Make sure to remember them as you’ll need them to track your application status and to log in for future use.
4. Verify your email address by clicking on the link that UNISA will send to your email. This step ensures that your contact information is accurate.

Step 3: Select Your Program

Once you’ve created your account and logged in, it’s time to select the program you want to apply for. UNISA offers a broad selection of qualifications at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels:

• Undergraduate Programs: Includes degrees in Humanities, Law, Science, and Commerce, such as BCom, BSc, BA, and more.
• Postgraduate Programs: Includes Masters, PhDs, and postgraduate diplomas in fields such as Business, Education, Law, and Health Sciences.
• Certificate and Diploma Programs: UNISA also offers a variety of certificate and diploma programs for specialized skills development.

You will be asked to provide specific program details, such as your preferred specialization or major if applicable. It is essential to check the entry requirements for the program you are interested in, as certain qualifications may have additional prerequisites.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form

Once you’ve selected your program, the next step is to fill out the application form. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to provide:

• Personal Details: Full name, ID number or passport number, gender, date of birth, nationality, and contact information.
• Academic Qualifications: Your educational history, including your Matric Certificate, any National Senior Certificate (NSC) results, and transcripts from previous tertiary studies (if applicable).
• Program Details: The specific program you are applying for, and any additional documents required (e.g., portfolios for creative programs).
• Language Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you may need to submit proof of proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

UNISA requires several documents to support your application. These documents need to be scanned clearly and uploaded in PDF or JPEG format. Typical documents include:

• Certified Copy of Your ID/Passport: To verify your identity.
• Matric Certificate or Equivalent: Your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent school-leaving qualification for undergraduate applicants.
• University Transcripts: For postgraduate applicants, submit transcripts of any tertiary qualifications.
• Proof of English Proficiency: If you are an international student or English is not your first language.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): For postgraduate programs, especially for MBA or research-based programs.
• Motivation Letter or Statement of Purpose: Some postgraduate programs may require this, particularly for research-driven degrees.
• Reference Letters: Some postgraduate programs may also require reference letters from academic or professional sources.

Ensure all documents are clear and in the right format to avoid delays in your application.

Step 6: Pay the Application Fee

UNISA charges a non-refundable application fee to process your application. The fee is as follows:

• South African Applicants: The application fee is typically R115.
• International Applicants: The fee is R195.

Make sure to pay the application fee online via the application portal using a credit card or bank transfer. It’s crucial to pay this fee as soon as possible to ensure that your application is processed.

Step 7: Submit Your Application

Once you’ve completed all sections of the application form, uploaded the required documents, and paid the application fee, you’re ready to submit your application. After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your application reference number.

Make sure to keep this reference number safe, as it will be important for tracking your application status and communicating with the university.

Step 8: Track Your Application Status

After you submit your application, you can track the status of your application through the UNISA online portal. Here, you will be able to check:

• Application Status: Whether your application is in progress or if additional documentation is required.
• Admission Decision: Once your application has been reviewed, you will be notified if you have been accepted, rejected, or waitlisted.

You will also receive notifications via email, so be sure to regularly check your inbox.

Step 9: Wait for the Admission Decision

After submitting your application, UNISA will review your application and issue an admission decision. Admission results are typically communicated:

• Undergraduate Programs: By January or February 2027.
• Postgraduate Programs: By February or March 2027.

If accepted, you will receive an offer letter, which will provide instructions on how to proceed with registration, payment of fees, and other necessary steps to finalize your enrollment.

Step 10: Accept Your Offer and Register

If you are offered a place at UNISA, follow the instructions in the offer letter to:

1. Accept your offer: Confirm your place in the program.
2. Register for your courses: Select the modules or courses you will take for the semester.
3. Pay your tuition fees: Payment instructions will be provided once you’ve completed your registration.

Step 11: Begin Your Studies

Once registered, you’ll be able to access all of UNISA’s online learning resources. Your study materials will be made available to you, and you can begin your studies from anywhere in the world.

Important Dates and Deadlines for UNISA Online Application 2027

It’s important to adhere to deadlines to ensure your application is considered:

• Application Opening Date: Typically, applications for 2027 open in August 2027.
• Application Closing Date:
  • Undergraduate Programs: Generally close by October 2027.
  • Postgraduate Programs: Closing dates vary by program but typically close around October 2027.
• Late Applications: May be accepted, but typically incur an additional fee.

Check the UNISA website for specific dates, as they may change each year.

The UNISA Online Application Process for 2027 is designed to be straightforward, but it’s essential to follow each step carefully to ensure that your application is submitted successfully. By following this guide, you can submit a complete application and maximize your chances of being accepted into one of South Africa’s largest and most respected distance learning institutions.

For more information and to begin your application, visit the [UNISA Application Portal](https

://www.unisa.ac.za).