The UNISA Online Application 2026 undergraduate process is the official way to apply for admission at the University of South Africa in 2026. This guide explains who must apply, how the selection process works, what documents to prepare, and how to respond to offers correctly. Following each step carefully ensures your application is processed without delays.
UNISA gets more than 350 000 applications annually, but not all can be admitted due to capacity.
Missing the 10-day window to accept an offer means your place is instantly given to someone else.
First-time applicants who skip the First Year Experience MOOC cannot accept their offers.
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How UNISA selects undergraduate applicants
The University of South Africa balances fair access with academic standards. Selection for the UNISA Online Application 2026 undergraduate is based on your Admission Points Score (APS), which combines your Grade 12 results with additional factors such as the school you attended and your personal background.
- Meeting the minimum APS allows your application to be considered, but it does not guarantee a place.
- Each qualification has limited space, and demand often exceeds capacity.
- Before you apply, confirm that you meet the statutory and college-specific admission requirements for your chosen qualification.

Who must apply for UNISA Online Application 2026 undergraduate
You need to submit the UNISA Online Application 2026 undergraduate if any of the following applies:
- You are a first-time applicant to UNISA.
- You are a current UNISA student who wants to change qualifications or specialisations.
- You are completing a Higher Certificate and want to continue with further undergraduate studies.
- You previously applied, received an offer, but did not accept or register.
- You plan to study at a TVET college under the UNISA-TVET partnership.
Choosing your qualification
Choosing the right programme is a crucial part of the UNISA Online Application 2026 undergraduate. Applicants are encouraged to select up to two alternative qualifications in addition to their first choice.
- Confirm that you meet the admission requirements for every qualification you apply for.
- Rank your choices in order of preference.
- Remember that space is limited. Even if you meet the requirements, your first choice may not be available.
The application process in four steps
The UNISA Online Application 2026 undergraduate is managed entirely online. Each applicant may apply for up to three qualifications, but can only register for one once accepted.
Step 1: Apply online
Submit up to three qualifications, ranked in order of preference.
Step 2: Wait for the outcome
You will be informed of the outcome and offered a space in a specific qualification for a set semester. You must respond within 10 working days, or your offer will expire.
Step 3: Complete the First Year Experience MOOC
All first-time undergraduate applicants must complete this short online course before accepting an offer.
Step 4: Register for your granted period
Once you accept the offer, you must register for that semester. If you do not, your space will be withdrawn and you will need to reapply in the next cycle.
Uploading supporting documents for UNISA Online Application 2026 undergraduate
Your application will only be processed if all required documents are uploaded correctly. Files must be certified within the last three months and submitted as separate PDFs.
- Certified copy of your school qualifications (e.g. Senior Certificate).
- Certified copy of your official tertiary academic record (if applicable). Internet copies are not accepted.
- Certified copy of RSA ID or passport (for international students).
- Certified copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable).
- Sworn translations if your documents are not in English or Afrikaans.
Uncertified or incomplete uploads will result in rejection. UNISA regional offices do not provide scanners, so prepare your files in advance.
Application fee and payment
Once you receive your student number, you must pay the non-refundable application fee.
- Use your student number as the payment reference.
- Payment can be made via bank deposit, EFT, or online credit card payment through the secure UNISA website.
- Credit card payment is the fastest and most reliable method.
After you submit your UNISA Online Application 2026 undergraduate
Once submitted, keep monitoring your application status:
- Track your email inbox regularly for updates.
- Accept or decline an offer within the 10-day period.
- Complete the First Year Experience MOOC if required.
- Register in the correct semester to confirm your space.
- If you miss registration, you must reapply in the next application window.
Quick checklist before you submit
- I meet the APS and subject requirements for my chosen qualifications.
- I selected up to three qualifications in order of preference.
- All my documents are certified, clear, and uploaded as separate PDFs.
- I am ready to complete the First Year Experience MOOC if offered a space.
- I know that meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission.
Apply here
Start your UNISA Online Application 2026 undergraduate today:
👉 Apply now at UNISA
Universities Are Now Open for 2026 Applications
Do not miss your chance! Explore which South African universities are currently open for applications and secure your spot before deadlines close.
Apply at Other SA Universities NowFAQs
How many qualifications can I apply for
You may apply for a maximum of three qualifications. You will register for one only.
How long do I have to accept an offer
You have 10 working days to accept or decline. If you do not respond, the offer will be withdrawn.
Do I need to complete the First Year Experience MOOC
Yes. First time Unisa applicants must complete the First Year Experience MOOC before accepting an offer.
What happens if I do not register after accepting
If you do not register for the granted semester, you will need to re apply in the next application period.
Are spaces guaranteed if I meet the APS
No. Selection depends on your points score and the number of places available for each qualification.

