UNISA Admission Requirements

The University of South Africa (UNISA) sets admission requirements for each qualification. These combine the type of pass on your National Senior Certificate, minimum marks in certain subjects and a minimum Admission Point Score (APS). Because UNISA teaches through distance learning, it also offers routes for working adults who do not meet the school-leaver requirements.

The type of pass you need

The endorsement on your National Senior Certificate decides which level you can start at. A degree needs a degree endorsement, which is often called a bachelor's pass. A diploma needs at least a diploma endorsement, while a higher certificate needs a higher certificate endorsement. Most degrees also ask for at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning.

If you do not meet the requirements for your first choice, UNISA advises you to apply for a lower qualification that you do qualify for. For example, you might start with a higher certificate and then move on to a diploma or degree.

Examples from UNISA qualifications

• BCom in Economics: a degree endorsement, at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning and at least 50% in Mathematics, with an APS of 21
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB): an APS of 20. UNISA also accepts a Higher Certificate in Law or Criminal Justice with an average of at least 60%.
• Diploma in Civil Engineering: a diploma endorsement with level 4 in English, Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, and Physical Science or Technical Science, with an APS of 18. Mathematical Literacy is not accepted.
• Diploma in Safety Management: at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning, with 40% in Mathematics or 70% in Mathematical Literacy
• Bachelor of Social Work: at least 60% in English and 60% in four further subjects. This is a selection qualification, so you also need a police clearance and two testimonials.

Older school certificates

If you finished school before 2008 with a Senior Certificate, UNISA accepts it with matriculation exemption. Each qualification then sets minimum symbols on the higher or standard grade instead of NSC levels.

Recognition of prior learning

Older applicants who lack the usual school results may qualify through recognition of prior learning (RPL). The rules differ by qualification. For instance, the BCom in Economics accepts RPL applicants who are at least 30, have completed at least Grade 10 and have five years of relevant work experience. Some other degrees set the age at 27.

Meeting the requirements is not a guarantee

UNISA assesses each application with a points score system and offers places based on the requirements and on available space. Some qualifications have a limited number of places. As a result, applicants who qualify may still have to wait until UNISA has processed every application before they hear whether they have a place.