University of South Africa (UNISA)
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is Africa’s largest distance learning institution, offering flexible, high-quality education for students who prefer remote study. Established in 1873, UNISA has built a reputation for accessible, globally recognized qualifications that cater to a diverse student population.
Located in Pretoria, with learning centers across South Africa, UNISA is the perfect choice for students who need flexibility, whether they are working professionals, parents, or individuals looking to upskill while managing other responsibilities.
Popular Courses & Programs
UNISA offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across multiple disciplines. Some of the most in-demand programs include:
Business & Economics
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) – Accounting, Economics, and Business Management
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- Master of Business Leadership (MBL) and MBA
Education & Humanities
- Bachelor of Education (BEd) – Foundation, Intermediate, and Senior Phase Teaching
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) – Psychology, Sociology, and International Relations
- Postgraduate Certificates in Teaching and Inclusive Education
Science & Technology
- BSc in Information Technology, Data Science, and Environmental Sciences
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Renewable Energy and Sustainability Programs
Law & Social Sciences
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Public Administration, Political Science, and International Law
- Postgraduate Diplomas in Compliance and Governance
Health & Natural Sciences
- Bachelor of Nursing, Public Health, and Environmental Health
- BSc in Life Sciences, Biochemistry, and Food Science
UNISA’s self-paced study model allows students to learn at their convenience while accessing high-quality educational materials and resources online.
Admission Requirements
UNISA has specific APS score requirements depending on the faculty and program.
General Admission Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s Pass
- Mathematics and Physical Sciences required for Science, Engineering, and Health programs
- English at Level 4 or higher
- APS requirements range from 15 to 35, depending on the program
International students must meet equivalent academic and language proficiency requirements.
Tuition Fees & Financial Aid
UNISA is known for its affordable tuition fees, making quality education accessible to many. Estimated costs per year:
- Undergraduate programs: R20,000 – R60,000 per year
- Postgraduate programs: R35,000 – R100,000 per year
- Certain professional degrees may have higher fees
Financial Aid & Scholarships
- NSFAS Funding – Available for eligible South African students
- UNISA Merit-Based Scholarships – Awarded to top-performing students
- Corporate and Government Bursaries – Sponsored by organizations like Eskom, Nedbank, and Old Mutual
- Work-Study Programs – Opportunities for students to earn while studying
Student Support & Resources
As a distance-learning institution, UNISA offers comprehensive student support services to help students succeed.
Online Learning & Digital Resources
- UNISA’s MyUnisa platform provides lecture notes, study materials, and academic support.
- Virtual libraries and research databases available to students 24/7.
Tutoring & Support Services
- E-tutors available for most courses.
- Study groups and discussion forums to facilitate peer learning.
- Career development services to assist students in finding internships and employment opportunities.
Contact Information & How to Apply
Applications to UNISA are done online via the official admissions portal. Important deadlines include:
- Applications Open: September each year
- Early Application Deadline: November 30
- NSFAS Application Deadline: January 31
Contact Details
- Website: www.unisa.ac.za
- Email: study-info@unisa.ac.za
- Phone: +27 12 429 3111
- Address: Pretoria, South Africa
UNISA is the best option for students looking for flexible, high-quality, and affordable distance learning. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, UNISA allows you to earn a globally recognized degree at your own pace.
Ready to apply? Start your UNISA application here | Need financial assistance? Check available bursaries and scholarships | Want to compare UNISA with other universities? Explore our rankings guide