Update: 3 November 2025 — UNISA 2026 Applications are once again open, but only for selected programmes. If you missed the first application window (18 August – 10 October 2025) or were waiting on documents, this is your second chance. Apply between 3 November and 19 December 2025.
Important: Only qualifications marked “Open” on UNISA’s portal are accepting applications during this period.
Key Dates at a Glance
- Applications open: 3 November 2025
- Applications close: 19 December 2025
- Scope: Selected Undergraduate, Honours, and Postgraduate Diploma programmes only
- Note: Master’s, Doctoral, and SLP timelines remain as advertised in the main guide.
What’s Different About This Reopening?
- Limited availability: Not all programmes are open. Availability depends on faculty capacity and space.
- Short timeline: Applications close on 19 December 2025.
- Competitive selection: Complete and accurate applications are prioritised.
If you’re still preparing documents, check our guide: UNISA 2026 Application Documents (What You Need).
Who Should Apply Now?
You should apply during this window if you:
- Didn’t apply in the first window or were not offered a place.
- Want to switch to a programme that is currently marked “Open.”
- Now meet the minimum admission requirements and have all documents ready.
- Are an international applicant and need to factor in SAQA evaluations and visa timelines—start early!
How to Check If Your Programme Is Open
- Visit the relevant portal: Undergraduate or Honours/PG Diplomas.
- Search for your qualification.
- Confirm that the status shows “Open.”
- If it shows “Closed,” you will need to either choose an alternative open programme or wait for the next cycle.
We will follow up with a detailed article on the courses that are open during this re-open window.
Step-by-Step Guide: Applying in the Re-Open Window
- Create or verify your myUNISA profile.
- Prepare certified documents (certified within the last 3 months):
- ID or passport
- Senior certificate / previous qualifications
- Academic transcripts
- Name-change documents (if applicable)
- SAQA certificate (for international applicants)
- Complete the online application carefully—use the exact programme name and code.
- Upload clear, legible scans (no cropped documents or cut-off stamps).
- Pay the application fee and keep proof: UNISA Application Fee 2026.
- Submit your application and save your reference number.
- Track your status and respond promptly to any requests: UNISA Application Status Check 2026.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Rushed submissions are the #1 reason for delays or rejections. Before submitting, check: UNISA Online Application Mistakes to Avoid, covering:
- Poor-quality documents
- Duplicate uploads
- Incorrect programme codes
- Payment slip issues
FAQs – UNISA 2026 Applications
- When does this re-open window close?
- 19 December 2025. Late applications are usually not accepted.
- Are all programmes open?
- No. Only programmes marked “Open” on the portal.
- Can I apply for more than one programme?
- Yes, if allowed—but each application requires a separate fee.
- How long do decisions take?
- Timelines vary. Complete applications are processed faster. Check your status regularly.
- Can I change my programme after submitting?
- Changes are limited and time-bound. Choose carefully.
- What if I don’t have all my documents ready?
- Only complete applications are considered. Prepare your documents beforehand.
- Do international students have extra requirements?
- Yes. Factor in SAQA evaluations and visa timelines. Start early.
- How do I know if my documents are certified correctly?
- Certification must be within the last 3 months by an authorised person.
- What documents do I need to upload?
- ID/passport, previous qualifications, transcripts, name-change documents, SAQA certificate if applicable.
- How do I pay the application fee?
- What if I make a mistake in my application?
- How do I track my application status?
- Is there a fee for submitting multiple applications?
- Yes, each application requires a separate payment.
- Can I apply if I missed the first window?
- Yes, this re-open window is your second chance.
- What about funding?
- NSFAS has separate timelines and requirements. Apply early and keep proof of submission.
Quick Checklist Before You Apply
- Programme is marked “Open.”
- Meet minimum admission requirements and APS/module prerequisites.
- All documents are recently certified and clearly scanned.
- Know how to pay the application fee and keep proof.
- Reviewed common errors to avoid.
- Bookmarked the status tracker.
- Verified all required documents.
Spots are limited, and the window is short. If your programme is open, submit a complete application for UNISA 2026 Applications before 19 December 2025:
- Undergraduate applications: Apply Here
- Honours & Postgraduate Diplomas: Apply Here
Good luck, and we’ll see you in 2026!