Many students in South Africa who missed the regular application period for the University of South Africa (UNISA) want to know whether late applications are possible for the 2026 academic year.
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UNISA is one of the largest universities on the continent and operates an online application system.
In 2026, the standard application windows were set by the university, and late applications are only possible in limited situations.
What Were the Official UNISA Application Dates for 2026?
UNISA opened its 2026 application period for undergraduate, honours and postgraduate qualifications in the second half of 2025.
For most undergraduate qualifications, the online application window ran from 3 November to 19 December 2025.
This period applies to most first-year entry programmes. In prior years, UNISA had stated similar closing dates, and it emphasises that all required documents must be uploaded by the closing date, as no applications or documents can be accepted after that deadline.
For master’s and doctoral degrees, UNISA’s application window for the 2026 academic year ran from early September to 21 November 2025, with some exceptions depending on the programme.
Does UNISA Accept Late Applications for 2026?
UNISA does not generally accept late applications once the official application period has closed.
The university’s policy is that no applications or supporting documents will be accepted after the published closing date, and if you miss the deadline, you must wait until the next application cycle.
This applies even if you submitted some documents late.
However, UNISA sometimes re-opens applications for a limited set of qualifications where spaces remain.
This re-open window is not guaranteed and depends on seat availability in specific programmes.
When UNISA re-opens a qualification, it means that more applications can be submitted for that course only, typically within a set timeframe after the original deadline.
Which Programmes Could Have Late Entry Options?
If UNISA announces a re-open window for late applications, it usually applies to a limited number of undergraduate qualifications with available space.
These might include popular degrees like Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Science, or various Higher Certificate qualifications, depending on demand and capacity.
Postgraduate programmes such as honours, postgraduate diplomas, master’s, and doctoral degrees are less likely to have formal late application windows because they usually fill during the regular application period.
Exceptions can occur, but they are rare and depend on departmental decisions and available spots.
What Requirements Must I Meet to Apply for UNISA in 2026?
Whether you are applying during the normal or a late window, UNISA requires that you meet the minimum admission requirements for your chosen qualification.
For undergraduate study, this generally means a valid National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent and the minimum Academic Points Score (APS) for the programme.
For postgraduate study, you must hold a relevant completed qualification that meets the specific entry requirements of the honours or higher degree you are applying to.
Some master’s and doctoral programmes require a research proposal or additional departmental documents.
All applicants must also upload certified supporting documents such as their ID document or passport, academic transcripts, highest school results, and any other required certificates as separate file uploads within the online system by the closing date.
How Do I Apply Online to UNISA?
UNISA uses an online application system for all qualifications. To apply, you must follow these steps:
- Visit the official UNISA “Apply for Admission” page and start a new application.
- Create a profile or log in if you have applied before.
- Select up to three qualifications you want to apply for in order of preference.
- Upload all required supporting documents in the correct file types before the closing date.
- Pay the non-refundable application fee, which is R150.00 for online applications, before or on the closing date.
- Submit your application and keep your application reference or student number for tracking.
UNISA will assess your application and contact you by email or SMS with the outcome. You should monitor your email regularly for updates.
What If I Missed the 2026 Deadline Entirely?
If you did not apply by the closing date and there is no re-open window for your qualification, you must wait until UNISA opens applications for the 2027 academic year.
Applications typically open in the second half of the year before study, usually around August or later.
You should prepare early and ensure that you have all supporting documents and meet the admission requirements before the next period begins.
UNISA will not accept any applications outside the official application windows unless a specific re-open period is announced.
When Will UNISA Open Applications for 2027?
While UNISA has not yet published the official 2027 application dates, the pattern from previous years suggests that the main application window for undergraduate and some postgraduate qualifications will open in the second half of 2026 and close towards the end of the year.
It is important to check UNISA’s official website regularly for announcements once the 2027 cycle is confirmed.
By understanding these timelines and requirements, you can be ready to apply on time and avoid missing your chance to study with UNISA next year.