Before you apply
How to Apply
I know online portals can be a nightmare when everyone's applying at once, but Unisa's process is manageable if you go step by step.
Apply online through Unisa's application portal at unisa.ac.za between 15 April 2026 and 9 May 2026. You'll pay a non-refundable R160 application fee. You also need to upload your ID document, matric certificate or latest academic record, and proof of payment before the deadline. If your documents aren't in English or Afrikaans, get them sworn-translated first.
Every document must be black and white, under 2MB, and saved as PDF, DOC or TIF. Unisa doesn't accept incomplete applications, so double check everything is uploaded before the closing date.
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.zaAdvertisement
Applying
- 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.
