The Unisa LLB (Bachelor of Laws, qualification 98680) needs a National Senior Certificate with degree endorsement and at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning, or one of the alternative routes Unisa lists. Unisa shows an Academic Point Score (APS) of 20 for the qualification.
The qualification is NQF level 8, 480 credits, and is studied by distance. Applications for the 2027 academic year were open from 17 August to 9 October 2026, so that window has now closed. Check the Unisa site for the next application dates.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- Qualification: Bachelor of Laws (98680), NQF level 8, 480 credits
- School-leaver route: NSC with degree endorsement and at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning
- Listed APS: 20
- Maximum time to complete: 10 years
- Application fee: R160 for online applications, non-refundable
- Place: not guaranteed, because some qualifications have limited spaces
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
Nationally, a Bachelor’s degree needs an NSC with at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching and an achievement rating of 4 (50-59%) or better in four 20-credit subjects, and institutions may set more (DHET minimum admission policy). Unisa asks for more than that minimum for the LLB. For the 2027 intake, Unisa accepts the following.
- A National Senior Certificate (degree endorsement) with at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning
- A Senior Certificate with matriculation exemption, with a D on Higher Grade or a C on Standard Grade in the language of teaching and learning
- A Higher Certificate in Law or in Criminal Justice, completed at a public or private higher education institution registered with the DHET, with an average of at least 60%
- A 360-credit NQF level 6 Diploma in Law or a related field
- A B Iuris, B Proc, B Com Law or BA Law degree
Confirm the exact wording for your route on the Unisa LLB page.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Unisa calculates its APS on the NSC 1 to 7 scale using six recognised 20-credit subjects, to a maximum of 42. Life Orientation is a 10-credit subject and is excluded. Unisa lists an APS of 20 for the LLB, and the language of teaching and learning must still reach 50%.
Unisa states that meeting the requirements does not guarantee a place for 2027. See the general admission requirements.
Documents and Application Requirements
All Unisa applications are online. The application fee for online applications is R160 and is not refundable. Unisa lists the documents it needs during the online application, so work from the Unisa application page rather than a third-party checklist. Whichever route you use, expect to prove it with the matching qualification: your NSC or Senior Certificate, or the certificate, diploma or degree transcript you are relying on.
Applying is not the same as registering. Admission is not automatic, so wait for Unisa’s outcome before you plan your registration.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Unisa’s 2027 undergraduate application window ran from 17 August to 9 October 2026. If you missed it, check the Unisa site for the next cycle before assuming a date.
If you do not meet the LLB requirements, Unisa tells applicants to consider a Diploma or Higher Certificate instead. The Higher Certificate in Law (98751) needs an NSC with at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning, or an equivalent listed on the Higher Certificate in Law page. It can also lead back to the LLB, but only if you finish it with an average of at least 60%.
The LLB is the academic qualification only. Ask the Legal Practice Council what is needed after the degree before you plan to practise as an attorney or advocate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Unisa LLB requirements?
An NSC with degree endorsement and at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning (listed APS 20), or an accepted alternative route: a Senior Certificate with matriculation exemption, a Higher Certificate in Law or Criminal Justice with a 60% average, a 360-credit diploma in law or a related field, or a law degree.
How long is the LLB at Unisa?
Unisa states a maximum of 10 years to complete the qualification. It does not give a minimum duration on the qualification page, so ask Unisa how long your study plan will take.
How much does the Unisa LLB cost?
The R160 application fee is non-refundable. Tuition is charged per module, and the current amounts are on Unisa’s fees pages, which you can reach from the LLB page.
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.
What if I do not meet the LLB requirements?
Unisa suggests a Diploma or Higher Certificate you do qualify for. The Higher Certificate in Law needs an NSC with at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning.
Does the LLB let me practise?
It is the academic qualification. Ask the Legal Practice Council what further training and admission are needed.
Confirm current requirements with Unisa and see admission requirements. Also see law requirements and browse all education requirements.