How Much is UNISA School Fees 2025 Academic Session – A DETAILED GUIDE

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of the largest and most respected distance education institutions in South Africa. Offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, UNISA allows students to pursue their academic goals from anywhere in the world, providing access to higher education for those who need flexibility.

If you’re planning to enroll at UNISA for the 2025 academic year, understanding the tuition fees and additional costs is crucial for effective financial planning. In this article, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the 2025 UNISA school fees, including undergraduate and postgraduate fees, additional costs, payment options, and available financial aid.

About UNISA

UNISA (University of South Africa) is South Africa’s largest public university, offering distance education to students across the globe. As a leading open distance learning (ODL) institution, UNISA has enabled thousands of students to pursue degrees in fields like business, law, engineering, health sciences, education, and the arts. The university is known for its flexibility, allowing students to study at their own pace and from any location, making it a popular choice for non-traditional students, working professionals, and international learners.

With a mission to offer accessible and quality education, UNISA has built a robust platform for online learning, ensuring that students can engage in high-quality education regardless of geographical barriers.

UNISA Programs for 2025

UNISA offers a wide variety of undergraduate, postgraduate, and certificate programs, providing students with ample options to pursue their career goals. Some of the most popular programs at UNISA include:

1. Undergraduate Programs

• Bachelor of Arts (BA)
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
• Bachelor of Education (BEd)
• Bachelor of Science (BSc)
• Bachelor of Law (LLB)
• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
• Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)

2. Postgraduate Programs

• Postgraduate Diplomas (PGDip)
• Master’s Programs (MA, MSc, MBA)
• Doctoral Programs (PhD)

3. Short Courses and Certificates

In addition to degree programs, UNISA also offers a wide range of short courses and certificates in various fields like digital marketing, project management, teaching, and healthcare management.

UNISA Fees 2025: A Breakdown of Tuition Costs

Understanding the fees for your chosen program is critical to planning your education costs. UNISA tuition fees vary depending on the program, the number of modules you take, and whether you are a South African or international student.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the 2025 tuition fees for different categories:

1. Undergraduate Fees 2025

For undergraduate programs, UNISA charges tuition fees based on the number of modules you register for each year. A module is a specific unit of study within a program, and most programs consist of multiple modules.

• Bachelor’s Degrees:
  • South African Students: The fees for undergraduate degrees usually range from R1,000 to R6,000 per module. A full-time student can expect to register for 6–8 modules per year, with the total annual fees ranging between R6,000 and R48,000.
  • International Students: International students may pay slightly higher fees, ranging from R1,500 to R7,000 per module. The total fees can range from R9,000 to R56,000 annually, depending on the number of modules.

Example of Undergraduate Degree Fees:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA):
  • Local: Around R6,000 – R10,000 per year.
  • International: Around R10,000 – R14,000 per year.
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom):
  • Local: Approximately R6,000 – R12,000 per year.
  • International: Approximately R10,000 – R16,000 per year.

2. Postgraduate Fees 2025

Postgraduate fees at UNISA also depend on the program and the number of modules you take. Generally, postgraduate programs (such as Masters and Doctoral degrees) are more expensive than undergraduate degrees, but they vary by field of study.

• Master’s Degrees:
  • South African Students: Fees for a Master’s program range from R10,000 to R45,000 annually, depending on the faculty and number of modules.
  • International Students: The fees for international students range from R12,000 to R50,000 annually.
• Doctoral Degrees (PhD):
  • South African Students: Doctoral programs typically range from R15,000 to R60,000 per year, depending on the research requirements.
  • International Students: International doctoral fees range from R18,000 to R65,000 annually.

Example of Postgraduate Degree Fees:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA):
  • Local: Around R45,000 – R60,000.
  • International: Around R55,000 – R75,000.
• Master of Education (MEd):
  • Local: Approximately R30,000 – R40,000.
  • International: Approximately R35,000 – R50,000.

3. Short Courses and Certificates

Short courses and certificate programs offered at UNISA are usually more affordable than full degree programs, and the fees are typically set per course. These courses are ideal for individuals looking to upskill or gain knowledge in a particular field without committing to a full degree.

• Short Course Fees: Fees for short courses usually range from R1,000 to R8,000, depending on the duration and subject matter.
• Certificate Program Fees: The fees for certificates typically range from R3,000 to R15,000.

Additional Costs at UNISA

In addition to tuition fees, there are several other costs that students should be aware of. These include:

1. Application Fees

• South African Students: The application fee is typically R115.
• International Students: The application fee for international students is generally R170.

2. Registration Fees

• All Students: Registration fees are generally R1,000 and are due when you register for your courses each year.

3. Study Materials and Textbooks

• UNISA students are expected to purchase textbooks and other study materials for their modules. The cost of study materials varies but typically ranges from R1,000 to R5,000 per year, depending on the program.

4. Examination Fees

• While UNISA does not charge for individual exam sessions, students may need to pay for supplementary exams or re-registration if they fail a module. These fees typically range from R500 to R1,000.

5. Technology and Online Learning Fees

• Since UNISA operates primarily as an online learning institution, students must ensure they have access to a reliable internet connection, a computer, and other necessary technology. The cost of internet data and computer equipment can vary depending on your personal setup.

6. Accommodation and Living Costs

Although UNISA offers distance learning, some students may need to relocate for specific events like exams or practicals. Accommodation costs vary by location but typically range from R2,000 to R6,000 per month, depending on proximity to UNISA’s exam centers or your place of residence.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

UNISA understands that many students require financial assistance, and therefore offers several financial aid options:

1. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)

For South African students, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial aid to eligible students. NSFAS covers the cost of tuition, registration fees, and in some cases, living allowances.

2. UNISA Bursaries and Scholarships

UNISA offers bursaries and scholarships to students in need of financial support. These bursaries are often based on academic merit and financial need. Applications for bursaries typically open at the beginning of the academic year.

3. Payment Plans

UNISA provides flexible payment plans for students who may not be able to pay their fees in full upfront. Students can opt to pay their tuition fees in installments throughout the year, making it easier to manage their finances.

Payment Methods

UNISA accepts a variety of payment methods to accommodate students:

• Credit and Debit Cards
• Bank Transfers
• Cash Payments (at authorized payment centers)
• Online Payment Portal

Understanding the 2025 school fees for UNISA is crucial for prospective students to effectively plan for their education. The fees for undergraduate programs generally range from R6,000 to R48,000 per year, depending on the number of modules and your student status (local vs international). Postgraduate programs tend to be more expensive, ranging from R10,000 to R75,000 annually.

In addition to tuition fees, students must also factor in costs for registration, study materials, and other miscellaneous expenses. Thankfully, there are financial aid options, including **NSF

AS**, UNISA scholarships, and flexible payment plans, to assist students with their tuition fees.

For more details on how to apply, available financial aid, and further information on 2025 tuition fees, visit the official UNISA Application Page here.