UNISA Online Application 2026: Semester 2 Dates and Process

Key Takeaways: The Mid-Year Window

• The Dates: Applications for Semester 2 typically open in mid-April and close in early May 2026.
• The Restriction: Semester 2 is NOT a full intake. It is limited to qualifications with “Semester Modules” (e.g., BCom, BA).
• The “Year Module” Trap: You generally cannot start degrees like Teaching (BEd) or LLB (Law) in Semester 2, as these run on Year Modules.
• Application Fee: Approx. R140 – R150 (Non-refundable).
• Who must apply? First-time students OR existing students changing their qualification. If you are just a returning student registering for the next module, you do not “apply”—you “register.”

If you missed the January deadline, you don’t necessarily have to wait until 2027. UNISA (University of South Africa) is one of the few universities that offers a Second Semester Intake.

However, this is not a “free-for-all.” The mid-year intake is restricted. UNISA uses this period to top up numbers in specific courses, but they do not open the full catalogue.

Here is everything you need to know to successfully secure your spot for July 2026.

1. Important Dates (Estimates for 2026)

Note: UNISA dates change frequently. Always check www.unisa.ac.za in April.

• Applications Open: Mid-April 2026 (Likely around 15 April).
• Applications Close: Early May 2026 (Likely around 10 May).
• Registration Opens: June 2026 (After you accept the offer).
• Classes Start: July 2026.

Warning: The application window is usually only 3 weeks long. If you blink, you miss it.

2. What Can You Study in Semester 2? (The “Year Module” Rule)

This is the most confusing part of UNISA admissions.

Semester Modules (OPEN for July)

• These modules run for 6 months (July to November).
• Examples: Most BCom degrees, BA (General), and Diplomas in Business.
• Verdict: You CAN usually apply for these in Semester 2.

Year Modules (CLOSED for July)

• These modules run for 12 months (January to November). You cannot jump onto a moving train halfway through the year.
• Examples: Bachelor of Education (BEd), LLB (Law), and many Engineering modules.
• Verdict: If you want to study Teaching, you generally have to wait for the 2027 January intake.

How to Check:

Go to the UNISA registration website. Look at the module codes for your degree.

• If the code ends in “S2” (e.g., FAC1502-S2), it is a semester module.
• If it says “Year Module,” you cannot start it now.

3. The Application Process (Step-by-Step)

If you are a First-Time Applicant (never studied at UNISA before), follow these steps:

Step 1: Get Your Documents Ready

You cannot save the page and come back later. Have these scanned as PDF files (under 2MB each):

1. ID Copy: Certified (not older than 3 months).
2. School Results: Certified Matric Certificate (or Grade 11 if current Matric, but usually Semester 2 is for those who already have Matric).
3. Marriage Certificate: (If applicable).

Step 2: Apply Online

1. Go to www.unisa.ac.za/apply.
2. Click “Undergraduate admissions”.
3. Select “Start a new application”.
4. Choose your qualification (e.g., Bachelor of Commerce). Note: The system will filter out qualifications that are closed.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

• Amount: Approx R140 – R150.
• Reference: Use the Student Number generated during the application.
• Method: Credit Card (instant) or EFT (takes 3 days).
• Note: If you do not pay the fee by the closing date, your application is deleted.

4. Returning Students: Do You Need to Apply?

• Scenario A: You studied at UNISA in Semester 1 and passed/failed. You just want to do the next modules.
  • Action: Do NOT apply. You just Register on myUnisa in June.
• Scenario B: You studied a Higher Certificate last year and now want to start a Degree.
  • Action: YES, you must apply for “Admission to a New Qualification.”
• Scenario C: You applied in January, got accepted, but never registered.
  • Action: You usually have to Re-apply (and sometimes pay the fee again, depending on the cycle rules).

5. Accepting the Offer (The 10-Day Rule)

If your application is successful, UNISA will send you an email/SMS saying: “You have been offered a space for [Course Name].”

• The Clock: You usually have 10 days to log in and click “Accept Offer.”
• The Risk: If you forget to click “Accept,” they give your spot to someone else. You cannot reclaim it.

6. Common Errors to Avoid

1. Applying for “Full” Courses: Sometimes UNISA opens applications but keeps specific streams (like Nursing or Social Work) closed because they are full. Check the specific list released in April.
2. Assuming NSFAS applies instantly: If you apply in May, your NSFAS funding might only be finalized in August. Be prepared to pay the Minimum Initial Payment (Registration Fee) upfront to activate your account while you wait for NSFAS.
3. Uploading bad documents: Blurred photos of IDs are the #1 reason for rejection. Go to a scanner.

Summary: Be Ready in April

The Second Semester intake is a lifeline for students who want to save 6 months. But it is fast, limited, and strict.

Action Plan:

1. Set a Reminder: Put “Check UNISA Website” in your calendar for 15 April 2026.
2. Save Money: Put aside R150 for the application fee now.
3. Scan Documents: Have your certified ID and Matric certificate ready on your phone/laptop.

Disclaimer: Application dates and fees are subject to change by UNISA. Always verify on the official website.