Which University Is Open For Late Applications?
Many South African students find themselves in a situation where traditional application deadlines have passed.
This can be due to various reasons, such as finalizing outstanding paperwork, missing out on earlier deadlines, or a late change of study plans.
But there are still some options available.
This guide will explore universities in South Africa that accept late applications, specifically focusing on the University of South Africa (UNISA).
Does Unisa Accept Late Applications?
The University of South Africa (Unisa) is a leader in providing flexible learning opportunities for South African students.
Unisa operates on a semester system, with applications opening in March/April for the July semester and in August/September for the February semester.
Unisa does not have a designated late application period.
However, they do consider applications received after the advertised closing date on a space-available basis.
This means that if places remain in a particular program after the deadline has passed, Unisa may still accept your application.
This is what you need to do if you want to apply to Unisa after the deadline:
- Check the application deadline for your desired program. You can find this information on the Unisa website or by contacting the specific department offering the program.
- Submit your application as soon as possible. Even though Unisa considers late applications, the sooner you submit yours, the better your chances of securing a spot.
- Be prepared to pay a late application fee. Unisa charges a late application fee for applications received after the closing date.
- Contact the Admissions Department. Let them know of your interest in the program and inquire about any available spaces. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information on your specific situation.
What are Rolling Admissions in South Africa?
Some South African universities operate on a rolling admissions system.
This means that applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis throughout the year, as opposed to having a single application deadline.
Universities with rolling admissions continue accepting applications until their programs are full.
These are some advantages of applying to universities with rolling admissions:
- Greater flexibility: You can submit your application whenever you’re ready, avoiding the stress of meeting a specific deadline.
- Potentially faster decisions: With applications reviewed continuously, you might receive an admissions decision sooner.
Here are some disadvantages of applying to universities with rolling admissions:
- Competition may be higher: As applications are processed on an ongoing basis, the earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a spot.
- Limited space in programs: If a program fills up before your application is reviewed, you might not be accepted.
These are some South African universities known for using rolling admissions:
- University of Johannesburg
- Nelson Mandela University
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
How Can I Find Out a University’s Late Application Policy?
The best way to find out a university’s late application policy is to visit their official website.
Most universities have a dedicated admissions section that outlines deadlines, application procedures, and any information on late applications.
You can also contact the university’s admissions department directly for further clarification.
How long does it take for UNISA to process a late application?
Processing times for UNISA applications can vary depending on the volume of applications received and the complexity of individual cases.
However, you can generally expect a response within 4-6 weeks of submitting your application.
Can I still apply for student accommodation if I apply to UNISA late?
UNISA’s student accommodation is separate from the application process.
While applying late for the program might not affect your accommodation application, securing on-campus housing can be competitive.
It’s best to contact UNISA’s student housing department directly to inquire about availability.
What are the chances of my late application to UNISA being accepted?
The chances of your late application being accepted depend on several factors, including the program you’re applying for, the number of available spaces, and the completeness of your application.
Submitting a strong application with all necessary documents can increase your chances of success.