When is UNISA Application Opening for 2026?

If you’re planning to study at the University of South Africa (UNISA) in 2026, one of the most important questions on your mind is likely: when is UNISA application opening for 2026? Whether you’re a first-time applicant, returning student, or a postgraduate hopeful, understanding the application window and requirements is key to securing your spot.

According to official updates and academic calendars, the University of South Africa (UNISA) will open its 2026 application period on 1 September 2025, and the closing date will be 14 October 2025. This information is consistent with academic reports from credible platforms such as Silicon Africa.

It’s important to note that these dates are specific to UNISA. Other public universities in South Africa, such as the University of Cape Town (UCT), University of Johannesburg (UJ), and Stellenbosch University, may open their applications as early as April 2025. But for UNISA, the confirmed dates for 2026 remain:

Application Opening Date	1 September 2025
Application Closing Date	14 October 2025

The application period from 1 September to 14 October 2025 is for:

• First-time undergraduate applicants
• Returning students who did not register in the previous academic year
• Postgraduate certificate, diploma, and degree applicants
• Students changing their qualification or field of study

International students must also apply within this period and ensure that all required documents, including certified copies and passport copies, are submitted on time.

Applying to UNISA is a simple but detailed process. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application experience:

Before you apply, carefully select the qualification you wish to pursue. Visit UNISA’s official website to view all available programmes for the 2026 academic year.

Each qualification has specific entry requirements. Make sure your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent meets the minimum criteria for your chosen programme.

You will need the following documents when applying:

• Certified copy of your ID or passport
• Certified copies of your academic transcripts
• Proof of payment of the application fee (non-refundable)
• Recent academic results (for current matriculants)

All documents must be scanned and uploaded online.

Head over to the UNISA application portal at www.unisa.ac.za during the application period. Create a myUnisa profile and follow the on-screen prompts to submit your application.

Here are some useful tips and reminders to help you navigate the 2026 UNISA application:

• Apply early: Don’t wait for the last minute. Systems may be overloaded close to the deadline.
• Double-check your documents: Incomplete or incorrect submissions can result in rejection.
• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee (around R125) is required for all new applications.
• Track your application: After submission, you can track your application status on the myUnisa portal.

No, UNISA does not accept late applications. The institution adheres strictly to its deadlines. If you miss the application window between 1 September and 14 October 2025, you will need to wait for the next academic cycle.

If you’re interested in Short Learning Programmes (SLPs), note that they may have different application windows. Check the Centre for Lifelong Learning on UNISA’s website for separate timelines and requirements for SLPs.

While UNISA opens its application window later than some universities, it offers a flexible and accessible distance-learning model. Here’s a comparison:

University	Application Opening	Closing Date
UNISA	1 September 2025	14 October 2025
University of Cape Town	April 2025	July 2025
University of Johannesburg	April 2025	September 2025
Stellenbosch University	April 2025	August 2025

So, while others open earlier, UNISA gives you ample time to apply in September.

Choosing UNISA as your institution of study comes with several advantages:

• Affordable tuition fees
• Flexible distance learning, ideal for working professionals
• Wide variety of qualifications across disciplines
• Nationally and internationally recognised degrees

UNISA flexible learning approach makes higher education more accessible for thousands of South Africans every year.

To recap, when is UNISA application opening for 2026? – Applications open on 1 September 2025 and close on 14 October 2025. Whether you’re a local matriculant, a gap-year student, or a working adult returning to education, these dates are critical.