How do you qualify for honours programs at Unisa?

The University of South Africa offers a wide range of honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas, allowing you to further specialize in your chosen field.

However, securing admission to these honours programs requires meeting specific criteria.

What is the difference between Honours and a Postgraduate Diploma at Unisa?

Both Honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas are postgraduate qualifications offered by Unisa.

However, they serve slightly different purposes:

1. Honours degrees: These qualifications go deeper into your undergraduate major, providing specialized knowledge and research skills. They consist of coursework and a research dissertation. Earning an Honours degree is often a prerequisite for Master’s degree programs.
2. Postgraduate diplomas: These qualifications focus on acquiring specific skills or knowledge in a particular field. They are generally shorter in duration than Honours degrees and primarily involve coursework, with less emphasis on research.

When choosing between an Honours degree and a postgraduate diploma, consider your career goals.

If you aim for a research-oriented career or plan to pursue a Master’s degree, an Honours degree might be a better fit.

If you seek to gain specialized skills for immediate career advancement, a postgraduate diploma might be the more suitable option.

What are the minimum admission requirements for Honours degrees at Unisa?

To qualify for Honours degrees at Unisa, you must generally meet the following criteria:

1. Hold a Bachelor’s degree: You must possess a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution, preferably in a field related to the Honours program you wish to pursue.
2. Minimum percentage in your major: Each Honours program has a minimum percentage requirement in the major subject(s) of your undergraduate degree. This requirement typically falls within the range of 60% to 70%, but it can vary depending on the specific program. You can find the exact percentage requirement for your chosen program on the Unisa website.
3. Satisfactory academic performance: Your overall academic record in your undergraduate degree will also be considered.

Can I apply for Honours with outstanding modules from my undergraduate degree?

Unisa generally allows applications for Honours degrees even if you have outstanding modules from your undergraduate degree.

However, there are some limitations:

1. The number of outstanding modules: Unisa’s 2026 Student Rules allow only one outstanding undergraduate module. You apply on the DSAR16 form to register it together with two postgraduate modules for non-degree purposes.
2. Nature of the outstanding module: It may not be part of the major subject needed for admission to the postgraduate qualification (the CTA is an exception). If you fail it, the postgraduate modules are cancelled in June.

If you have outstanding modules in your major subjects, you will need to complete them before being admitted to the Honours program.

What if my undergraduate qualification is from outside South Africa?

Foreign qualifications require evaluation by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

You may apply without the SAQA certificate of evaluation. If you are accepted, you must submit it by the closing date of registration.

How do I apply for honours programs at Unisa?

Unisa operates a fully online application system.

Visit the Unisa application website during the designated application period and follow the four-step online application process.

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

1. Go to the Unisa website dedicated to Honours and postgraduate diploma applications.
2. Browse the available Honours programs and select the one that aligns with your interests and career goals.
3. Carefully review the specific admission requirements for your chosen program, including the minimum percentage requirement.
4. Gather the necessary documents, such as your official academic records, a copy of your ID or passport, and any other documents your qualification asks for.
5. Submit your documents and click on “Apply.”

What documents do I need to submit with my honours application?

The required documents typically include your official academic records, a copy of your ID or passport, and any extra documents your qualification asks for. Files must be PDF, DOC or TIF and no bigger than 2MB each.

For applications based on RPL, additional documentation related to your work experience may be necessary.

Consult the specific program requirements on the Unisa website for detailed information.

When are the application deadlines for honours programs at Unisa?

Applications for honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas for 2027 open on 17 August and close on 9 October 2026.

It’s essential to check the specific program information on the Unisa website well in advance of the application period.

What are the fees associated with honours programs at Unisa?

The fees for honours programs at Unisa can vary depending on the program chosen and your enrolment status (e.g. South African citizen, international student).

You can find the latest fee structure on the Unisa website student fees section.

If you’re a first-time applicant to Unisa, you’ll need to complete the free online Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) offered by Unisa before accepting your offer for honours studies.

Also keep in mind that meeting the minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee acceptance because honours programs at Unisa often have limited spaces.

A strong academic record and a compelling application can increase your chances of admission.