Applications for the 2027 academic year are not yet open. New undergraduate and postgraduate applicants will typically need to submit their admission applications between August and November 2026. Returning students who are already enrolled will register for their modules in January 2027.
UNISA occasionally opens limited re-admission windows outside of the main application period. It is worth checking the official UNISA website regularly, as these windows are announced with little advance notice.
Expected 2027 Application and Registration Timeline
The dates below are based on expected schedules and are subject to official university announcements:
- New Applications (Undergraduate and Honours): August to November 2026
- Master’s and Doctoral Applications: Usually open until December 2026
- Registration Period: January to February 2027 (for Semester 1 and year modules)
- Semester 2 Registration: Opens around July 2027
Difference Between Application and Registration
| Step | What It Is |
|---|---|
| Application | Submitting your request to study at UNISA |
| Acceptance | UNISA confirms you qualify and offers you a place |
| Registration | Officially enrolling, selecting modules, and paying to begin studying |
All three steps must be completed before you become an active UNISA student.
Registration Key Dates 2027
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Semester 1 Registration Opens | January 2027 |
| Semester 1 Registration Closes | February 2027 |
| Late Registration (with late fee) | After standard closing date |
| Semester 2 Registration Opens | June 2027 |
| Semester 2 Registration Closes | July 2027 |
Exact dates are published on the UNISA website at the start of each year. Always confirm before registering.
Documents Needed for Registration
For first-time students:
- Your student number (from your acceptance letter)
- Proof of payment of the Minimum Initial Payment (MIP) or confirmation of NSFAS funding
- Access to your myUNISA portal account
UNISA registration is completed entirely online — no in-person visit is required.
How to Register Online (myUNISA Portal)
Step 1: Log In to myUNISA
Go to my.unisa.ac.za and log in using your student number and password.
Step 2: Accept Your Offer
Navigate to myAdmin > Applications > My Offer and click Accept. You must complete this step before registration becomes available.
Step 3: Go to Registration
Select Registration from the myAdmin menu.
Step 4: Confirm Personal Details
Review and confirm that all your personal and contact details are up to date before proceeding.
Step 5: Select Your Modules
Choose the modules for the upcoming semester as recommended for your qualification year. Do not register for modules you have not yet met the prerequisites for.
Step 6: Pay the Minimum Initial Payment (MIP)
Review your fee statement and make the required MIP. Registration will only be activated once the MIP is received by UNISA.
NSFAS students: If funding has not yet been confirmed, contact UNISA’s finance office about conditional registration options.
Step 7: Submit and Download Proof of Registration
Click Submit to finalise registration. Download and save your Proof of Registration — you may need it for NSFAS, bursary providers, or your employer.
How Many Modules Can You Register For?
- Maximum per semester: Typically 4 modules (to maintain academic standards and a manageable workload)
- Minimum for NSFAS full funding: 10 modules per year (across both semesters)
- Students on bursaries may have specific module load requirements — check with your sponsor
What Happens If You Miss the Registration Deadline?
- A late registration period is usually available with an additional late fee
- After the final deadline, registration closes and you cannot enrol for that semester
- You may re-apply for the following semester or academic year
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register without paying fees? NSFAS-approved students may be conditionally registered while funding is being processed. Students with bursaries should submit a letter from their sponsor. Otherwise, the MIP must be paid first.
Can I change my modules after registration? UNISA allows module changes within a short window after registration opens. Log in to myUNISA and use the module change function within the stipulated period.
Do I need to re-register every year? Yes. All students must register for each new academic year and each semester. Registration is not automatic.
Can I register for Semester 2 only? Yes. Some UNISA programmes offer semester-specific intake. Check whether your chosen qualification is available for Semester 2 entry.