Unisa Admission Requirements

The University of South Africa (Unisa) is one of Africa’s leading providers of open distance learning (ODL).

As a South African looking to enhance your qualifications through Unisa, understanding the admission requirements is necessary for a successful application.

This article provides a complete guide to go through Unisa’s admission process.

Unisa Admission Requirements

There are two main categories of admission requirements for Unisa applicants: general requirements and program-specific requirements.

1. General Requirements:
   • Applicants must possess a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a bachelor’s degree pass or an equivalent qualification.
   • Meeting the minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee admission, as competitive programs might have higher benchmarks.
2. Program-Specific Requirements:
   • Each program has specific requirements beyond the general ones. These may include achieving minimum marks in specific NSC subjects relevant to the chosen program.
   • Some programs require additional tests or portfolios showcasing relevant skills or experience.

For more details on the admission requirements, it’s recommended to visit the Unisa website‘s “Qualifications” page.

There, you can look at various programs and their specific admission criteria.

What are the entry requirements for Unisa for international students?

International students looking for admission to Unisa follow a similar process to South African applicants.

However, there are some other considerations:

1. Academic Qualifications: International qualifications need evaluation by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) to ensure they meet the South African National Qualifications Framework (NQF) standards.
2. English Language Proficiency: If English isn’t your native language, you might need to provide proof of English language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. The specific score requirement depends on the chosen program.
3. Visa Requirements: International students must obtain the appropriate visa for studying in South Africa. Unisa’s international office can provide guidance on this process.

It’s important to note that deadlines for international student applications might differ from domestic applications.

Is Unisa open for 2024 applications (undergraduate)?

Unisa accepts applications throughout the year. However, application deadlines for specific programs and semesters can vary.

We advise that you check the deadlines for your desired program on the Unisa website well before the application period closes.

How much is the application fee for Unisa for international students?

Application fees for international students may differ slightly from domestic student fees.

The current application fee for international undergraduate applicants is R1000 (South African Rand). 

Unisa’s website provides the most up-to-date information on application fees.

Can UniSA reject my application?

Yes, Unisa can reject your application. These are some reasons why this might happen:

1. Incomplete application: Ensure you submit all required documents and meet the deadlines.
2. Not meeting minimum requirements: Double-check your qualifications against the program’s specific entry criteria.
3. Limited space availability: Competitive programs might have a limited number of spaces available.

If your application is rejected, Unisa will provide feedback on the reasons.

You can then address the shortcomings and reapply in the next application cycle.