Before you apply
How to Apply
I know the online portals can be a nightmare, but take it step-by-step. Apply at https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Apply-for-admission/ under the 'Undergraduate qualifications' section. You need to upload your matric certificate, ID, and any other relevant docs. Make sure your documents are scanned and ready before you start, or you'll have to reapply next time.
There isn't a published application fee in the research data, so check Unisa's official page for the latest. Application deadlines for 2027 are not specified, so keep an eye on their site for the opening and closing dates. Everything happens online, so you won't need to queue at a campus.
Application fee
General: R0
Closing date
9 May 2026
How you apply
Online, through the university's portal
Know what you're applying for
Before you apply, work out what you're interested in studying and check whether you meet the entry requirements — it decides which programmes are worth putting on your application.
Documents you'll need
- Certified copy of your ID or passport
- Certified copy of your latest results (Grade 11 or matric, whichever you have)
- Academic transcript — only if you're a transfer student from another institution
- SAQA evaluation — only if you did your schooling outside South Africa
- Proof of residence — only if you're applying for a res spot
Don't forget NSFAS
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) is a separate application from your university application, with its own closing date. Applying to The University of South Africa does not apply you for NSFAS — you need to do both.
Apply for NSFAS at nsfas.org.zaApplying
- 1
Go to the university's website
Find the online application or admissions portal.
- 2
Create your application profile
Register with your ID number and contact details.
- 3
Upload your documents
Add your certified ID and results, plus anything else the portal asks for.
- 4
Submit before the closing date
Pay the application fee if there is one, and keep your reference number.