Apply With Unisa 2027-2028

Apply With Unisa 2027-2028

Planning to apply to the University of South Africa for the 2027-2028 academic year? As a Unisa alumnus and higher education consultant who has guided hundreds of students through open distance learning admissions, I know how critical it is to align your application with Unisa’s official timelines and requirements. Missing a deadline or document can mean waiting another year, so this guide breaks down exactly what you need to know.

Unisa, Africa’s largest open distance e-learning institution, follows a structured annual intake that varies by qualification level. For the 2027-2028 cycle, undergraduate, honours, and postgraduate diploma applications are expected to open between August and October 2026, with most closing in November. Unisa does occasionally announce limited re-opening windows, for example, a recent window ran from 3 to 17 June for select qualifications. Master’s and doctoral applications typically remain open longer, often until 19 December, though exceptions apply per college. Short Learning Programmes have mid-year intakes too, with second-semester 2027 registrations running from 18 May to 10 July.

Before you apply, verify you meet both statutory and college-specific admission requirements, including the minimum APS score for your programme. You will need certified copies of your ID, academic records, a valid email address, and a cellphone number. All Unisa communication is digital, so check your inbox regularly.

A non-refundable R150.00 application fee applies and must be paid by the closing date via EFT or online banking. Unisa does not accept cash. Keep your proof of payment, because applications without confirmed payment are not processed.

This guide uses Unisa’s official announcements and my direct experience with the myUnisa portal to help you prepare confidently. Thyis guide will cover key dates, document checklists, fee payment steps, and how to track your application status, so you can submit the first time correctly and secure your spot for 2027-2028.

READ: Unisa Online Application 2027 Closing Date

Important Tips to Notice before Applying

• Upload all documents by the application closing date; late submissions will not be accepted.
• If you applied before 2016 and are applying for a new qualification, you must upload all required documents again to avoid delays.
• If you plan to enrol through a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college under the UNISA-TVET agreement, you can apply either via the TVET college or online through UNISA

Who Should Apply

• New applicants seeking admission to undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
• Returning students starting a new qualification must also apply and upload all required documents.
• Applicants interested in limited honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas should note that applications for these may open earlier in the year, typically around April to May, but for the 2026 academic year, the main application period is from January to April 2026.

When to Apply to UNISA 2027-2028

Unisa’s application for admission to:

Unisa Application Date For Undergraduate Qualifications 2027:

• Applications for admission to undergraduate qualifications for the 2027 academic year are expected to open between August and October. However, applications re-open for undergraduate qualifications for limited qualifications only. Apply between 3 and 17 June

Unisa Application Date For Honours degrees & postgraduate diplomas 2027:

• Applications for admission to honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas for the 2027 academic year are supposed to open from August to October. However, applications re-open for limited honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas only. Apply between 3 and 17 June 2026

Unisa Application Date For Master’s & Doctoral Qualifications Diplomas 2027:

• Applications for admission to Master’s & Doctoral Qualifications Diplomas for the 2027 academic year are supposed to open from September to November. However, applications re-open for master’s & doctoral qualifications until 19 December 2026 (some exceptions apply).

Unisa Application Date For Short Learning Programmes Diplomas 2027:

• Applications and registration for Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes are open from 8th January to 15th February.

Who can apply to UNISA for 2027- 2028?

Everyone interested in beginning a new qualification must apply for entry. This comprises the following set of people:

• First-time Unisa applicants 
• Students at Unisa switching to a new qualification and/or specialisation
• Applicants who previously applied for admission but were not offered space, or were offered space and accepted the offer but did not register.
• Students who have completed a higher certificate or any other program and wish to pursue further undergraduate studies

READ: Unisa Johannesburg 2027-2028

UNISA Contact Information

Please get in touch with Unisa at the following address:

• Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria
• Sunnyside campus (applications, registrations & learning centre):
• Cnr Justice Mahomed & Steve Biko Streets, Sunnyside, Pretoria
• Tel: 0800 005 311
• Email: unisa@whistleblowing.co.za

Apply to UNISA for the 2026-2027 academic year to realise your full potential via a world-class education. Investigate a diverse selection of programmes, flexible study opportunities, and knowledgeable professors. Take the first step towards a successful career to secure your future. Visit Unisa’s Official Website for more details.

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