UNISA 2027 Applications: Apply Online for 2027 Intake

Applying to the University of South Africa for 2027 requires following a fully online process because UNISA operates as a distance learning university and does not accept physical applications or walk-in submissions.

The 2027 application period is expected to open in August 2026 and close in October 2026, depending on the qualification type, and late applications are generally not accepted.

About the University of South Africa (UNISA)

The University of South Africa is the largest open distance learning university in Africa, and it allows students to study from anywhere in South Africa and internationally using online platforms and digital study materials.

UNISA offers flexible learning that allows students to work while studying, which makes it a popular choice for undergraduate, honours, and postgraduate qualifications.

The university operates on a structured academic calendar with fixed application windows, and admission is based on qualification requirements rather than physical campus attendance.

Courses Offered at UNISA

UNISA offers a wide range of qualifications across multiple colleges, designed for distance learning delivery.

1. College of Accounting Sciences offers accounting and financial management degrees.
2. College of Economic and Management Sciences offers business, HR, and public administration programmes.
3. College of Science, Engineering and Technology offers IT, mathematics, and science programmes.
4. College of Human Sciences offers education, languages, and social science degrees.
5. College of Law offers law-related qualifications including LLB.
6. College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences offers agricultural studies.

Each qualification has specific admission requirements and module structures that must be followed carefully.

Application Fees at UNISA

UNISA requires applicants to pay a non-refundable application fee when submitting a new application.

The application fee is R160 for online applications for new qualifications, and payment must be completed within the application window.

Your application will not be processed if the fee is not paid and correctly referenced to your application number.

Admission Requirements for UNISA

To apply for UNISA 2027, you must meet both general and programme-specific admission requirements.

You must have a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification that meets the requirements for higher education entry.

You must meet the minimum Admission Point Score or subject requirements depending on your chosen qualification.

You must also ensure that you qualify for the level of study, whether it is higher certificate, diploma, degree, honours, or postgraduate study.

Some programmes may require additional documentation or subject combinations depending on the faculty.

How to Apply Online at UNISA 2027

You must apply through the official UNISA online application system because paper applications are not accepted for new students.

1. Go to the UNISA website and open the “Apply for admission” section.
2. Create a myLife email account or use a valid email address.
3. Select your qualification type and study options.
4. Complete your personal and academic information accurately.
5. Upload all required supporting documents.
6. Pay the application fee and upload proof of payment.
7. Submit your application and save your student reference number.

After submission, you must track your application status through the UNISA student portal regularly.

Required Documents for UNISA Application

You must upload certified copies of all required documents during the application process.

1. Certified copy of your ID or passport.
2. National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification.
3. Official academic record if you have studied at another institution.
4. Marriage certificate or divorce decree if applicable.
5. Sworn translations if documents are not in English or Afrikaans.

All documents must be clear, certified, and uploaded individually as required by the system.

UNISA Application Dates for 2027

UNISA follows strict application windows, and each qualification type has its own timeline.

The undergraduate application period for 2027 is expected to run from around mid-August 2026 to early October 2026.

Honours and postgraduate diploma applications usually open and close within the same window as undergraduate applications.

Master’s and doctoral applications often extend slightly longer, usually closing around November 2026.

If you are reading this after October 2026, then undergraduate applications for 2027 are most likely closed and you will need to wait for the next cycle or limited late admission announcements.

UNISA Study Mode and Registration

UNISA operates differently from traditional universities because all learning is distance-based, meaning you will not attend daily lectures on campus.

Once accepted, you will register for modules online and receive study material digitally or by post depending on your programme.

Registration usually opens after acceptance results are released, and students must register within the official registration period to secure their place.

Contact Information for UNISA

If you need help with your application or technical issues, you can contact UNISA directly through official channels.

• UNISA Call Centre: +27 12 429 6888
• General enquiries email: study-info@unisa.ac.za
• Physical address: Room 09-51, Theo van Wijk Building, Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, City of Tshwane, South Africa
• Postal address: PO Box 392, UNISA, 0003, South Africa

You can also track updates and announcements directly on the official UNISA website.