The University of South Africa (UNISA) is pleased to announce that applications for Higher Certificate programmes for the 2026 academic year are now open. Prospective students are invited to submit their applications between 18 August 2025 and 10 October 2025. These flexible, career-focused qualifications serve as an ideal pathway for learners seeking foundational knowledge or aiming to meet entry requirements for advanced studies.
Why Pursue a Higher Certificate at UNISA?
UNISA’s Higher Certificates provide accessible opportunities to:
- Bridge academic gaps: Qualify for diploma/degree programmes if you don’t meet initial admission criteria
- Build core competencies: Gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge in specialised fields
- Study flexibly: Balance learning with personal commitments through our distance education model
- Enhance employability: Earn a nationally and internationally recognised qualification
Comprehensive Programme List (2026 Intake)
Explore these accredited Higher Certificate offerings:
- Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare
- Higher Certificate in Archives and Records Management
- Higher Certificate in Banking
- Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice
- Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Education (Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase)
- Higher Certificate in Education (Senior Phase: Mathematics and Science Education)
- Higher Certificate in Law
- Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Marketing
- Higher Certificate in Mathematics and Statistics
- Higher Certificate in Physical Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work
- Higher Certificate in Tourism Management
Key Application Details
- Application Period: 18 August – 10 October 2025
- No Late Submissions: Strict deadline enforcement due to high demand
Admission Requirements
Minimum eligibility criteria:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with minimum 30% pass in English
- Specific programmes may require additional subject prerequisites
- Detailed requirements available on UNISA’s official website
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Access UNISA’s online application portal
- Select your preferred Higher Certificate programme
- Complete all required fields in the application form
- Upload certified copies of supporting documents (ID, certificates, etc.)
- Pay the non-refundable application fee
- Retain your application reference number for future inquiries
Benefits of Early Application
- Priority consideration for competitive programmes
- Adequate time for financial aid arrangements (including NSFAS applications)
- Reduced risk of technical delays during peak periods
- Earlier access to registration and orientation materials
Strategic Academic Investment
UNISA’s Higher Certificates empower students to:
- Transition smoothly into diploma/degree programmes
- Develop workplace-ready skills in growing industries
- Build academic confidence through structured support systems
- Access lifelong learning opportunities with South Africa’s largest university
Important Notice: Allocation is subject to programme capacity and meeting all admission criteria. Applicants are encouraged to review detailed programme information on the official UNISA website before applying.
Take charge of your educational journey – submit your 2026 Higher Certificate application through UNISA’s official channels before 10 October 2025.
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