The largest university system in South Africa in terms of enrollment is the University of South Africa (UNISA), also referred to as Unisa. One-third of all South African college students attend it. UNISA is one of the world’s mega universities and the only one in Africa with over 400,000 students throughout its numerous institutions and affiliations, including overseas students from 130 different nations.
- Is Unisa open for 2026 applications?
- Which courses are open at Unisa?
- Is Unisa a real university?
- Can you apply at Unisa without matric?
Applications for admission to undergraduate qualifications (higher certificates, advanced certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas & degrees) for the 2026 academic year will be open from 1 September to 14 October 2026.
Everyone wanting to start a new qualification must apply for admission. This includes
- first-time Unisa applicants.
- Unisa students changing to a new qualification and/or specialisation.
- applicants who previously applied for admission and were not offered a space or who were offered a space, accepted the offer and did not register.
- students completing a higher certificate or any other programme and who wish to continue with further undergraduate studies.
All applications for admission must be submitted during the prescribed application period.
Applicants who plan to enrol for classes at a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college under the Unisa-TVET agreement may apply via the relevant TVET college or online through Unisa.