The University of South Africa (UNISA) teaches many of its modules per semester, so new students can sometimes start in the second semester instead of in January. This is UNISA's mid-year intake, also called the semester 2 intake. It is smaller than the main intake and opens only for selected qualifications. Here is how it works, based on UNISA's official pages.
Which qualifications are open
UNISA does not reopen every qualification for semester 2. In 2025, its second-semester applications ran from 14 April to 9 May and covered selected programmes, including diplomas and degrees. In 2026, UNISA ran a controlled, phased semester 2 process: applications opened only for selected undersubscribed qualifications, from 3 June to 17 June 2026, and UNISA said this was not a general reopening of all qualifications.
Who can apply
The semester 2 intake is for new applicants, and for UNISA students who want to start a new qualification. Returning students who are already studying do not apply. They simply register for their second-semester modules during the registration period.
How to apply
- Watch UNISA's website and announcements from April, because the window is short.
- Check that your qualification is on the list of those open for semester 2.
- Make sure that you meet its admission requirements and minimum APS.
- Apply online and upload your documents before the closing date.
- Pay the R160 application fee with the correct reference.
After you apply
You may register only after you receive an offer of placement and accept it online. UNISA may cancel a registration if an applicant was admitted incorrectly, so make sure your details and documents are accurate.
Semester 2 registration in 2026
For undergraduate qualifications, honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas with semester modules, semester 2 registration opened on 29 June 2026 and closed on 23 July 2026. The final date for the initial minimum payment was 31 July 2026. Use your student number, a space and your allocation number as the payment reference.
Fees for second-semester modules
UNISA charges per module. In 2026, the balance for second-semester modules was due by 15 August. See the UNISA fees page for module prices.
Tips
Give one valid email address and cellphone number, because UNISA uses them to contact you about your offer. Activate your myLife email account once your registration is finalised, because UNISA uses it for official correspondence. If your qualification is not open in semester 2, apply in the main application period for the next year instead.
Related pages
See how to apply to UNISA, the UNISA admission requirements and the UNISA application status page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does UNISA have a mid-year intake?
Yes, for selected qualifications in semester 2. Not every qualification reopens.
When did UNISA semester 2 registration run in 2026?
From 29 June to 23 July 2026.
Do returning UNISA students need to apply for semester 2?
No. They register for their semester 2 modules during the registration period.