Unisa publishes qualification information online rather than principally as a single prospectus PDF, with each qualification having its own page giving the code, NQF level, credits, SAQA identification number and Academic Point Score. Some supporting documents, such as the higher certificate and follow-on qualifications guide, are published as PDFs.
Because Unisa qualification information is primarily web-based and updated continuously, a downloaded PDF can be out of date within a single academic year. Check the qualification page on the Unisa site rather than relying on a saved document.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
Applications are generally assessed on the following.
- The qualification code and stream, since Unisa uses both
- The NQF level and total credits
- The Academic Point Score required
- Any minimum percentage in the language of teaching and learning
- Whether the qualification is still offered, since some are phased out
- Whether it is open to new applicants or only to previously registered students
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
Unisa qualification pages state explicitly where a qualification is being phased out or is open only to students previously registered for it. That detail rarely survives into third-party summaries and is the most consequential thing to check.
Unisa calculates its Academic Point Score on the National Senior Certificate 1 to 7 achievement scale using six recognised 20-credit subjects, to a maximum of 42. Life Orientation is a 10-credit subject and is excluded.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Subject requirements at Unisa are commonly expressed as a minimum percentage in the language of teaching and learning, and for science and mathematics qualifications a minimum in Mathematics.
Published examples include the Higher Certificate in Education requiring at least 40 per cent in the language of teaching and learning, and the Higher Certificate in Mathematics and Statistics requiring at least 30 per cent in the language of teaching and learning together with at least 40 per cent in Mathematics.
Documents and Application Requirements
Applications normally require the following.
- A certified copy of your identity document
- Your National Senior Certificate or latest statement of results
- Proof of the application fee, where one is charged
- Your final matric results, used to confirm any conditional offer
- A SAQA evaluation certificate, if you hold a foreign qualification
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Unisa states that meeting the general and specific admission requirements does not guarantee a place, since some qualifications have limited spaces. Admission is by offer of placement, which you must accept online before registering.
Unisa publishes a document setting out its higher certificates and the related follow-on qualifications per college. Consult it before choosing, so the certificate you take actually articulates towards the qualification you eventually want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Unisa publish a prospectus PDF?
Qualification information is primarily web-based with a page per qualification. Some supporting guides are published as PDFs.
Why should I check the website rather than a PDF?
Unisa updates qualification information continuously, and a downloaded PDF can be out of date within a single academic year.
How do I know if a qualification is being phased out?
Unisa qualification pages state this explicitly, including where a qualification is open only to previously registered students.
How does Unisa calculate the APS?
On the NSC 1 to 7 scale using six recognised 20-credit subjects, to a maximum of 42, excluding Life Orientation.
Source: University of South Africa official admission pages, checked August 2026. Check the qualification page on the Unisa website rather than a saved document. See UNISA courses and requirements. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.