Requirements

Unisa Bed Intermediate Phase Requirements

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Requirements

Introduction

Becoming a teacher for Grades 4–6 in South Africa is a calling, but it also comes with very specific academic requirements. If you are aiming to study the Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching (BEd) at the University of South Africa (Unisa), it’s crucial to understand exactly what Unisa expects before you apply.

This matters because Unisa is one of the most popular choices for aspiring teachers, especially working adults and students who cannot attend full‑time contact universities. Every year, thousands of applications are rejected simply because applicants did not meet the Unisa BEd Intermediate Phase requirements or did not submit their documents correctly.

This guide explains the key Unisa BEd Intermediate Phase admission requirements, how to apply, what documents you need, and the most common reasons applications are turned down. Use it as a checklist before you submit your Unisa application.

What Are the Unisa BEd Intermediate Phase Requirements in South Africa?

Unisa updates its admission rules from time to time, but the core requirements stay fairly similar. Always double‑check the latest details on the Unisa website, but as a guide, you can expect the following.

1. Minimum school qualification

You must have one of the following:

  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with admission to Bachelor’s degree studies
  • Senior Certificate (SC) with endorsement (old matric)
  • National Certificate (Vocational) – NC(V) Level 4 with Bachelor’s degree endorsement and relevant subjects
  • A recognised foreign school-leaving certificate, evaluated by SAQA

2. Minimum APS (Admission Points Score)

Unisa uses an APS system based on your final Grade 12 results.

  • The BEd Intermediate Phase typically requires an APS of around 23–26 points or higher (depending on the year and competition for places).
  • Some subjects may have their own minimum symbol requirements.

To calculate APS, Unisa allocates points to your final NSC percentages. For example (this may change slightly, but is a common scale):

  • 80–100% = 7 points
  • 70–79% = 6 points
  • 60–69% = 5 points
  • 50–59% = 4 points
  • 40–49% = 3 points
  • 30–39% = 2 points
  • 0–29% = 0 points

Your six best subjects (excluding Life Orientation, or sometimes counting it with reduced weight) are used to reach the APS.

3. Language requirements

Because teaching is communication-heavy, Unisa expects a certain level of language proficiency:

  • Language of teaching and learning (LOTL): usually English or Afrikaans at NSC level 4 (50–59%) or higher.
  • If you plan to teach in a specific language, Unisa may require a certain symbol in that language at matric level.

Check the specific Unisa brochure for your chosen language combination (e.g. English and isiZulu; English and Afrikaans, etc.).

4. Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy

For Intermediate Phase teaching, Mathematics is a core subject in the school curriculum (Grades 4–6). Unisa usually looks at your performance in:

  • Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy at NSC level 3 or 4 and above, depending on the year of admission rules.
  • If your Maths marks are low, you may be admitted on a more limited basis, or you may need to complete certain bridging or foundational modules.

5. Subject combinations and curriculum focus

The Unisa BEd Intermediate Phase focuses on the Grade 4–6 curriculum, usually including:

  • Languages (home language and first additional language)
  • Mathematics
  • Life Skills
  • Social Sciences
  • Natural Sciences and Technology

Some admission streams may require certain school subjects, especially languages, to ensure you can cope with the language methodology modules in the degree.

6. Age and study load

  • You must be 16 years or older to study at Unisa.
  • Unisa may limit your admission if your recent academic performance (at Unisa or another institution) shows you are not coping with higher education study load. They use “academic progression rules”.

7. Previous higher education qualifications (if applicable)

If you have already studied at a university, TVET college, or private higher education institution:

  • You can apply for the BEd using recognised prior learning (RPL) or credits from previous study.
  • Your previous studies must be NQF Level 5 or higher and from an institution accredited by the CHE and/or recorded by SAQA.
  • Unisa may grant credit exemptions for equivalent modules, but this is not automatic.

8. SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications

If you completed your schooling or tertiary studies outside South Africa:

  • You must obtain a SAQA Certificate of Evaluation for your foreign qualifications.
  • Unisa will not process your application without SAQA evaluation if you do not have a South African matric.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Unisa BEd Intermediate Phase

Follow these steps to improve your chances of a smooth application process.

Step 1: Check the official Unisa admission brochure

  1. Visit www.unisa.ac.za.
  2. Go to Study > Undergraduate qualifications > Bachelor degrees.
  3. Find BEd in Intermediate Phase Teaching and download the latest brochure or fact sheet.
  4. Confirm the exact APS, subject requirements, and closing dates for applications.

Step 2: Create or update your Unisa myLife/myUnisa account

  1. If you are a new applicant, register on the Unisa website to get a student number.
  2. If you have applied before, use your existing number and update your contact details.
  3. Make sure your email address and cellphone number are correct – Unisa communicates largely via email and SMS.

Step 3: Gather and scan your documents

  1. Collect all required documents (see the section below).
  2. Scan each document clearly in PDF or JPEG format.
  3. Check Unisa’s size limits (normally around 2MB per file) and ensure everything is legible and not cut off.
  4. Certified copies must be clearly stamped and signed, and usually not older than 3 months.

Step 4: Complete the online application

  1. During the official application period, click “Apply for admission” on the Unisa website.
  2. Select Undergraduate qualifications and then BEd Intermediate Phase Teaching as your qualification.
  3. Fill in all personal details, school results, and previous study history accurately.
  4. Upload each supporting document in the correct section.
  5. Submit the application and make sure you receive a reference number or confirmation.

Step 5: Pay the application fee

  1. Unisa charges a non‑refundable application fee (amount may change each year – check the Unisa website).
  2. Pay via the approved payment methods (e.g. EFT, bank deposit).
  3. Use your student number and reference exactly as instructed.
  4. Keep proof of payment – Unisa may request it if there is a query.

Step 6: Track your application status

  1. Log into the Unisa application status portal.
  2. Check regularly for updates such as:
    • “Application in progress”
    • “Conditional acceptance”
    • “Offer of placement”
    • “Unsuccessful”
  3. Respond to any requests for additional documents or clarification before the given deadlines.

Step 7: Accept your offer and register

If your application is successful:

  1. You will receive an offer to study via email/SMS and on your myUnisa profile.
  2. Accept the offer by the specified date.
  3. During the official registration period, register for your first‑year modules online.
  4. Pay the minimum registration fee to activate your registration.
  5. Set up your myUnisa and myLife email properly to access study materials and announcements.

Documents You Will Need

Prepare the following documents before you apply for the Unisa BEd Intermediate Phase.

  • Certified copy of ID or passport
    For South African citizens, a green ID book or smart ID card. For foreign students, a valid passport and, later, a valid study visa.

  • Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate
    Your National Senior Certificate, Senior Certificate, or NC(V) Level 4. If you wrote matric more than once, include all relevant statements of results.

  • Statement of results (if you wrote matric recently)
    If you have not yet received your official certificate from Umalusi, you can submit your Department of Basic Education statement of results.

  • Proof of any other completed qualifications
    Certificates and full academic transcripts from a TVET college, university, or private higher education institution, if applicable.

  • Academic record and certificate of good conduct (for previous tertiary students)
    If you studied elsewhere, you must provide a detailed academic record showing all modules passed/failed and your status.

  • SAQA evaluation (for foreign qualifications)
    A formal SAQA Certificate of Evaluation showing how your foreign qualifications compare to the South African NQF.

  • Proof of marriage or name change (if applicable)
    If your surname differs across documents, include a marriage certificate or legal name change document to avoid confusion.

  • Proof of payment of the Unisa application fee
    Bank deposit slip or EFT confirmation, with your student number/reference clearly visible.

  • Study visa and related documents (for international students in South Africa)
    For non‑SA citizens wanting to study from within South Africa, you’ll later need a valid study visa issued by the Department of Home Affairs.

Common Reasons for Rejection or Disqualification

Understanding why Unisa might reject a BEd Intermediate Phase application can help you avoid mistakes.

1. Not meeting the APS or subject requirements

If your APS is below the minimum, or you do not have the required level in key subjects (for example, language of learning and teaching), Unisa is likely to turn down your application.

Tip:
Use Unisa’s official APS calculators and check the exact requirements in the latest brochure before applying.

2. Incomplete or missing documents

Applications are often rejected because:

  • Certified copies are missing or unclear
  • Some pages of the certificate are not included
  • The ID copy is not certified
  • Academic records from previous institutions are not provided

Tip:
Double‑check that every document requested is uploaded in the correct place and is legible and certified where needed.

3. Outdated or uncertified copies

Unisa may decline your application if:

  • Certification stamps are too old (usually older than 3 months)
  • The certifying officer is not recognised (you should use SAPS, a commissioner of oaths, or certain professional offices)

4. Submitting after the closing date

Unisa strictly enforces application deadlines. Late applications are seldom considered for popular qualifications like BEd.

Tip:
Apply early in the application window. Do not wait until the last day when the system is usually busy or offline.

5. Poor previous academic performance

If you have a history of:

  • Being excluded or suspended from another institution
  • Consistently failing modules at Unisa or elsewhere

Unisa may limit or refuse admission based on its academic progression rules.

6. SAQA evaluation not submitted (for foreign qualifications)

If you studied outside South Africa and do not provide a proper SAQA evaluation, your application will not be processed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What APS do I need for Unisa BEd Intermediate Phase?

Unisa generally requires an APS of around 23–26 points or higher for the BEd Intermediate Phase, depending on the specific year’s admission rules and space availability. Always confirm the exact APS on the official Unisa brochure for the current intake.

Can I study BEd Intermediate Phase at Unisa with Mathematical Literacy?

In many cases, Mathematical Literacy is accepted for admission, provided you meet the minimum level (usually NSC level 4 or better). However, your Maths background can influence how comfortable you are with the Mathematics teaching modules, so higher marks are an advantage. Check the latest Unisa rules for any Maths‑specific requirements.

I did not get a Bachelor’s pass in matric. Can I still get into BEd at Unisa?

The BEd is a Bachelor’s degree, so Unisa typically requires a Bachelor’s level pass in your NSC or an equivalent qualification. If you did not get a Bachelor’s pass, you could consider:

  • Upgrading your matric through a registered institution
  • Completing a relevant Higher Certificate in Education at Unisa or another accredited provider, then applying for BEd afterwards, depending on progression rules

How long does the Unisa BEd Intermediate Phase take to complete?

The BEd Intermediate Phase is designed as a 4‑year full qualification (minimum duration). However, because Unisa is a distance education institution and many students study part‑time, it can take longer than 4 years if you register for fewer modules each semester or if you fail some modules.

Does Unisa provide practical teaching experience (WIL) in the BEd?

Yes. The BEd includes Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) components, where you must complete school-based teaching practice in accredited schools. You are usually responsible for finding a suitable school, but Unisa provides guidelines and requirements that the school must meet for your teaching practice to be recognised.

Pursuing the Unisa BEd Intermediate Phase is a solid step towards becoming a qualified teacher in South Africa’s public or private schools. By understanding the admission requirements, preparing your documents properly, and applying on time, you give yourself the best chance of being accepted.

If you’re serious about a career in teaching, use this guide as a checklist and then explore more detailed requirements and application tips for South African qualifications on requirements.co.za. The more informed you are, the smoother your journey into the classroom will be.

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