Unisa has no qualification called a plain “Diploma in Teaching”. Its College of Education listing, checked on 10 October 2026, includes two diplomas: the Diploma in Adult and Community Education and Training (90189-GET) and the Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (90187). If you searched for the adult and community diploma, its requirements are below.
The 2027 application window (17 August to 9 October 2026) has closed.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- Diploma in Adult and Community Education and Training (ACET, 90189-GET): NQF 6, 360 credits, APS 18, maximum 8 years
- Entry with an NSC (diploma endorsement) with at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning
- Alternatives: an NCV level 4 endorsed for diploma study, a Senior Certificate with E on Higher Grade or D on Standard Grade, or a NASCA (diploma endorsement) with at least 50%
- Recognition of prior learning: at least 23 years old, at least Grade 10 and at least five years’ relevant teaching experience
- Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (90187): NSC (diploma endorsement) with 40% in the language, plus a police clearance certificate
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
For the ACET diploma, Unisa will also consider approved and recognised vocational, professional and academic qualifications and part qualifications at Level 5 (such as the Higher Certificate ABET/ACET) or Level 6. Unisa’s 2027 follow-on list shows that the Higher Certificate ABET (now phased out) leads to the ACET diploma.
The national minimum for a diploma is an NSC with at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the institution and an achievement rating of 3 (40 to 49%) or better in four recognised 20-credit subjects. Unisa’s own requirements are as listed above.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Unisa calculates the APS on the NSC 1 to 7 scale using six recognised 20-credit subjects, to a maximum of 42, excluding Life Orientation (a 10-credit subject). The ACET diploma has an APS of 18.
Unisa sets a minimum percentage in the language of teaching and learning for its education qualifications. For the diplomas above it is 40% for NSC applicants.
Documents and Application Requirements
All Unisa undergraduate applications are online, and the application fee is R160, paid once you have received your student number. The fee is non-refundable. Apply through the Unisa application page.
The Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education requires a police clearance certificate with the application. If you apply through recognition of prior learning, check the ACET page for what you must submit to show your age, school grade and teaching experience.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Admission is not automatic: it depends on whether you meet the requirements and on space being available. The 2027 undergraduate window closed on 9 October 2026, so ask Unisa about late applications or the next cycle.
Unisa’s ACET page does not say that the diploma leads to registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE). If you want to teach in a school, confirm with SACE and the Department of Higher Education and Training whether a qualification is recognised for that purpose before you enrol.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a diploma in teaching at Unisa?
Not under that name. Unisa’s College of Education listing, checked on 10 October 2026, shows the Diploma in Adult and Community Education and Training (90189) and the Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (90187).
What are the requirements for the Unisa diploma in adult and community education?
An NSC with diploma endorsement and at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning, or an NCV level 4 endorsed for diploma study, a Senior Certificate with E on Higher Grade or D on Standard Grade, or a NASCA with diploma endorsement and at least 50%.
Can I enter the ACET diploma through recognition of prior learning?
Yes. You must be at least 23 years old, have completed at least Grade 10 and have at least five years’ relevant teaching experience.
How long does the ACET diploma take?
It is a 360-credit NQF level 6 qualification with a maximum completion time of 8 years.
What does the Higher Certificate in Education require?
An NSC with at least 40% in the language of teaching and learning. It is not a professional teaching qualification, and the BEd and PGCE are covered on our Unisa teaching courses page.
Source: University of South Africa official admission pages, checked 10 October 2026. Confirm current requirements with Unisa and qualification recognition with the Department of Higher Education and Training and SACE. See requirements for teaching. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.