The University of South Africa (Unisa), the largest university in the country, has officially begun accepting applications for the academic year 2025. Aspiring students must follow a series of steps to secure their admission.
Contents
Unisa Applications Open 2025
Unisa uses an Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) system, which allows students to study remotely without attending on-campus classes. Recently, Unisa has also moved its exams online. This flexible learning model is ideal for individuals with various personal commitments, work schedules, or unique lifestyles.
Application Period
The application period for the 2025 academic year is open from 21 August to 11 October 2024, providing applicants with 51 days to submit their applications. Applications are available for:
- Undergraduate programs
- Honours degrees
- Advanced certificates
- Postgraduate diplomas
- Higher certificates
- Advanced diplomas
Check This
Application Process
For 2025, Unisa’s selection process involves calculating an applicant’s points score, which is based on their final Grade 12 marks and other factors such as:
- Type of school attended
- Gender
- Socio-economic background
- Race
Admission Requirements
Applicants must ensure they meet both the general and specific admission criteria for their selected program. This includes meeting the required Academic Points Score (APS), which is calculated based on the applicant’s final Grade 12 marks and used to determine eligibility for various programs.
General Admission Criteria
- Academic Qualifications: Applicants must have completed their secondary education and obtained a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language of instruction (usually English) is required. Applicants may need to provide proof of language proficiency through standardized tests or previous academic records.
- Age Requirements: There may be age requirements for certain programs, especially for mature students or those applying for specific qualifications.
Specific Admission Criteria
- Academic Points Score (APS): The APS is calculated based on the applicant’s final Grade 12 marks. Each subject is assigned a point value, and the total points determine the APS. The minimum APS required varies depending on the college and the specific program. For example:
- College of Science, Engineering, and Technology: Programs like engineering or computer science may require a higher APS.
- College of Education: May have different APS requirements for programs like Early Childhood Education or Secondary Education.
- Subject Requirements: Some programs may have specific subject requirements. For example:
- Engineering Programs: May require Mathematics and Physical Science.
- Health Sciences Programs: May require Life Sciences or Biology.
- Additional Criteria: Some programs may have additional criteria such as:
- Portfolios: For programs in the arts or design, applicants may need to submit a portfolio of their work.
- Interviews: Certain programs may require an interview as part of the selection process.
- Work Experience: For postgraduate programs, relevant work experience may be required.
Reviewing Admission Requirements
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the specific admission requirements for each program they are interested in. This information can typically be found on the university’s official website or in the program’s admission guide. It is important to ensure that all criteria are met before submitting an application to avoid any delays or rejections.
Important Information
- Admission to Unisa for 2025 is not guaranteed and depends on available spaces for each program.
- Applicants can apply for up to two programs, but can only register for one, even if accepted for both.
- Unisa will notify applicants of their admission status, indicating the program they have been accepted into and the corresponding study period.
- Once an offer is made, applicants must respond within the specified timeframe. Failure to accept the offer within 10 working days will result in the offer being withdrawn and given to another applicant.
- First-time applicants must complete the First-Year Experience MOOC before accepting their offer.
- Only one offer can be accepted; accepting one will automatically cancel the other.
- After accepting an offer, students must register for the specified study period. If they do not register for that semester, they will need to reapply during the next application cycle.
Who Needs to Apply?
The following groups need to apply:
- First-time applicants to Unisa
- Current students wanting to change their program or specialization
- Those completing a higher certificate and looking to pursue further undergraduate studies
- Applicants who previously applied, received an offer, but did not accept or register
- Individuals planning to enroll at a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college under the Unisa-TVET partnership
Click the link to know more
Related posts:
I am a passionate technology and business enthusiast, constantly exploring the intersection where innovation meets entrepreneurship. With a keen eye for emerging trends and a deep understanding of market dynamics, I provide insightful analysis and commentary on the latest advancements shaping the tech industry.