The Unisa Higher Certificate in Law (code 98751) requires a National Senior Certificate with at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning. It is an NQF 5, 120-credit qualification with an APS of 17 and a maximum duration of three years.
Unisa designed it for candidates who do not meet the minimum admission requirements for diploma or degree study in the College of Law. It prepares them for higher education in an open and distance learning environment, including law, English proficiency and computer skills.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- NSC with at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning, or
- a Senior Certificate with an E on Higher Grade or D on Standard Grade in the language, or
- an NCV level 4 equivalent of 40%.
See the Unisa Higher Certificate in Law page for the full wording. Admission is not automatic: it depends on meeting the requirements and on space being available.
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
The certificate sits at NQF level 5 and suits applicants who fall short of the entry requirements for College of Law diplomas and degrees. Unisa’s page asks for a language percentage and lists no minimum for other subjects.
Admission is not automatic: it depends on meeting the requirements and on space being available. Unisa says selection for the higher certificate is limited and aligned to the vocational subject choices of NCV level 4 applicants.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
The page lists no Mathematics requirement; only the language percentage is specified. The APS is 17. Unisa calculates its Academic Point Score (APS) on the NSC 1 to 7 scale across six recognised 20-credit subjects, to a maximum of 42. Life Orientation is a 10-credit subject and is excluded.
Documents and Application Requirements
Unisa’s undergraduate application window for the 2027 intake ran from 17 August to 9 October 2026 and has now closed. All applications are made online. Apply through Unisa’s online application page, where the supporting documents are listed.
The application fee is R160 for online applications. You pay it after you receive your student number, and it is non-refundable.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Unisa’s 2027 follow-on list shows that Law certificate holders can progress to College of Law degrees and diplomas, except the BCom Law. For an LLB, the certificate must be passed with an average of at least 60%.
Requirements for admission as an attorney or advocate are set by the Legal Practice Council, not Unisa. Confirm them with the Council before you plan your route. See also UNISA courses and requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Unisa Higher Certificate in Law requirements?
An NSC with at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning, a Senior Certificate with an E on Higher Grade or D on Standard Grade, or an NCV level 4 equivalent of 40%.
Do I need Mathematics?
Unisa lists no Mathematics requirement for this certificate; only the language percentage applies.
Can it lead to an LLB?
Yes, according to Unisa’s follow-on list, if you pass the certificate with an average of at least 60%.
Are applications for 2027 still open?
No. The window ran from 17 August to 9 October 2026. Check Unisa’s site for the next intake.
Confirm requirements with the University of South Africa. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.