The University of South Africa (UNISA) is the largest open distance learning (ODL) university in Africa and fully NSFAS-funded for eligible undergraduates. In 2026, over 400,000 students will study 100% online for qualifications from certificates to PhDs, with zero on-campus attendance.
This complete 2026 guide explains what UNISA is, how distance learning works, pros and cons, NSFAS funding, application steps and student success tips. Whether you’re a working parent, rural learner or NSFAS beneficiary, UNISA makes higher education flexible, affordable and accessible.
What is UNISA? (Quick Facts 2026)
UNISA operates as an open-distance e-learning institution. Students attend classes online, access course material digitally, and may need to attend occasional practical sessions depending on the qualification.
UNISA caters to working individuals, parents and students who prefer remote learning flexibility. The university offers diplomas, degrees, certificates, and postgraduate programs.
| Feature | Details |
|---|
| Full Name | University of South Africa |
| Founded | 1873 (world’s oldest distance uni) |
| Students | 400,000+ (largest in Africa) |
| Campuses | No physical classes — 100% online |
| Qualifications | Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees, Honours, Masters, PhDs |
| Faculties | 8 (Accounting, Law, Education, Science, etc.) |
| NSFAS Funding | Yes — full bursary for undergrads |
| Global Rank | Top 10 distance learning unis worldwide |
How UNISA Distance Learning Works (2026)
UNISA uses Open Distance Learning (ODL) — you study wherever you are, whenever you can.
Core Components
| Element | How It Works |
|---|
| Study Materials | Posted printed books + digital PDFs on myUnisa |
| Online Platform | myUnisa — lectures, assignments, forums |
| Tutors | e-Tutors via email/discussion forums |
| Exams | In-person at regional centres (twice a year) |
| Support | Call centre, WhatsApp, regional offices |
A Day in the Life of a UNISA Student
| Time | Activity |
|---|
| 6:00 AM | Read printed module guide |
| 8:00 AM | Log into myUnisa → watch video lecture |
| 12:00 PM | Submit Assignment 01 online |
| 6:00 PM | Join discussion forum with e-tutor |
| Weekend | Study at own pace |
UNISA vs Traditional Universities
| Feature | UNISA | Campus Uni (e.g., UCT) |
|---|
| Location | Anywhere with internet/post | On-campus |
| Attendance | None | Daily lectures |
| Fees | Lower (R5,000–R15,000/year) | Higher (R40,000+) |
| Pace | Self-paced | Fixed semesters |
| NSFAS | Fully funded | Fully funded |
| Social Life | Limited | Rich campus life |
Is UNISA NSFAS-Funded? (2026)
YES — 100% for eligible students.
| Benefit | UNISA NSFAS Students |
|---|
| Tuition | Paid directly to UNISA |
| Books | R5,200 learning materials |
| Living Allowance | R16,500/year |
| Device | Laptop/tablet (once-off) |
| Data | 30GB/month (Telkom) |
UNISA 2026 Application: Key Dates & Steps
| Event | Date |
|---|
| Applications Open | 10 September 2025 |
| Closing (Undergrad) | 14 November 2025 |
| Registration | January 2026 |
| Study Starts | February 2026 |
How to Apply
- Go to unisa.ac.za/apply
- Create myUnisa account
- Choose qualification (e.g., BCom, Higher Certificate in Education)
- Upload: ID, matric certificate, proof of payment (R135 fee)
- Apply for NSFAS separately → NSFAS Application
Top UNISA Qualifications (2026)
| Level | Popular Programs |
|---|
| Certificates | Accounting, Marketing, Teaching |
| Diplomas | Public Administration, Law |
| Degrees | BCom, BA, BSc, BEd |
| Honours | Psychology, Business Management |
| Postgrad | MBA, MEd (limited NSFAS) |
Pros & Cons of UNISA Distance Learning
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Study anywhere | Requires self-discipline |
| No relocation | Limited peer interaction |
| Work full-time | Exams in-person |
| Lower costs | Slower feedback |
| Flexible pace | Tech issues can delay |
Student Success Tips (2026)
- Create a Study Schedule — 15–20 hours/week
- Join myUnisa Forums — ask questions
- Use Regional Centres — for exams, support
- Download Materials Early — avoid data issues
- Apply for NSFAS Laptop — via myNSFAS
- Submit Assignments on Time — no extensions
UNISA Support Services
| Service | Contact |
|---|
| Student Enquiries | 0800 00 1870 |
| myUnisa Help | myunisahelp@unisa.ac.za |
| Regional Offices | 10+ across SA (Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town) |
| WhatsApp | 060 070 2600 |
| NSFAS @ UNISA | nsfas@unisa.ac.za |
2026 UNISA Upgrades
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|
| myUnisa App | Study on phone |
| AI e-Tutors | 24/7 assignment help |
| Zero-Rated Data | Free access to myUnisa |
| Hybrid Exams | Online option (pilot) |