Common UNISA Student Challenges & Solutions

With 400,000+ students juggling work, family, and distance learning, 60% face at least one major hurdle each year. From missed deadlines to NSFAS delays, one wrong move can derail your degree.

This 2026 survival guide tackles the Top 10 UNISA challenges with real student examples, proven fixes, and preventive tips. Whether you’re a first-year, working mom, or NSFAS student, beat the system and graduate on time.

Top 10 UNISA Student Challenges (2026)

Challenge 1: Missing Assignment Deadlines

Real Case: Thandi (Gauteng) submitted Assignment 02 at 00:05 — got 0%.
Why: No calendar alerts, last-minute panic.

Fixes

• Set phone reminders 3 days before
• Submit 24 hours early
• Use myUNISA calendar sync
• Late? Appeal within 7 days (doctor’s note)

Challenge 2: NSFAS Payment Delays

Real Case: Sipho waited 3 months for living allowance — couldn’t buy data.
Why: Unlinked bank, wrong address.

Fixes

• Link student bank account → Bank Guide
• Update address in myNSFAS
• Check status weekly → Status Meanings
• Call 08000 67327 if stuck

Challenge 3: No Study Materials

Real Case: Nomsa started studying in April — no books arrived.
Why: Wrong postal code.

Fixes

• Update address before 31 Jan
• Download digital PDFs on myUNISA
• Visit regional office to collect
• Request reprint (R200)

Challenge 4: myUNISA Login/Portal Issues

Real Case: Lerato locked out during exam week.
Why: Forgot password, no 2FA.

Fixes

• Use incognito mode
• Reset via SMS OTP → Login Guide
• Enable 2FA
• Call 0800 00 1870

Challenge 5: Exam Venue Confusion

Real Case: Bongani went to wrong centre — missed exam.
Why: Didn’t check timetable.

Fixes

• Download exam letter 2 weeks early
• Confirm venue on myUNISA
• Arrive 1 hour early
• Aegrotat? Submit doctor’s note in 7 days

Challenge 6: Failing Modules

Real Case: Zinhle failed 6/10 modules — lost NSFAS.
Why: Overloaded with 120 credits while working.

Fixes

• Max 60 credits/semester if working
• Use past papers → Exams Guide
• Join discussion forums
• Appeal failed modules within 30 days

Challenge 7: Data & Internet Problems

Real Case: Rural student used 10GB on one PDF.
Why: No zero-rated access.

Fixes

• Use Vodacom/MTN/Cell C → free myUNISA
• Download at night (2AM–5AM)
• Use NSFAS 30GB (Telkom)
• Visit public libraries

Challenge 8: Plagiarism Accusations

Real Case: Student got 0% for “copy-paste” from study guide.
Why: Didn’t paraphrase.

Fixes

• Use Turnitin (free on myUNISA)
• Cite everything (Harvard/APA)
• Rewrite in own words
• Appeal if false positive

Challenge 9: Registration Errors

Real Case: Paid fees but not registered — no exam entry.
Why: Didn’t click “Submit”.

Fixes

• Save proof of registration PDF
• Pay minimum fee first
• Check “My Studies” tab
• Fix before 31 Jan

Challenge 10: Isolation & Low Motivation

Real Case: Working mom quit after 1 year — felt alone.
Why: No study buddy.

Fixes

• Join UNISA WhatsApp groups
• Use discussion forums
• Set weekly goals
• Attend regional meetups (free)

2026 UNISA Support Upgrades

Next Steps

1. Login → myUNISA Login
2. Register → Registration Guide
3. Get Materials → Study Materials
4. Pass Exams → Assignments & Exams

Help When You’re Stuck