Grade R is the year of study before Grade one. UNISA Grade R courses, are designed to provide a foundation upon which the student can build, so as to excel when doing the course proper. Theses courses have proven to be successful; many reputable persons who have contributed to national development have passed through this system.
UNISA – the University Of South Africa is one of the most prominent and reputable universities in South Africa. The institution consistently works towards equipping students with the right skills to become experts at the various fields of study they choose. UNISA is one of the best institutions in South Africa to study Grade R teaching courses.
UNISA Grade R Courses Fees
UNISA Grade R Teaching Courses and Fees in South Africa (2025 Guide)
The demand for qualified Grade R teachers in South Africa continues to grow as early childhood education becomes a greater priority across the country. Many aspiring and in-service educators look to the University of South Africa (UNISA) for flexible and affordable qualifications in this field. This guide offers a detailed, up-to-date breakdown of the UNISA Grade R teaching programs, fee structures, qualification requirements, and how students can plan for the 2025 academic year and beyond.
UNISA’s Grade R Teaching Programmes
UNISA offers two main routes for students interested in teaching Grade R (the Reception Year):
- Diploma in Grade R Teaching (Qualification Code: 90173)
- Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching (BEd, Code: 90102)
In addition, there are several short courses designed to enhance teaching skills for early childhood practitioners.
Diploma in Grade R Teaching: 90173
The Diploma in Grade R Teaching is a 360-credit qualification that allows current Grade R educators to formalize their teaching qualifications. It’s specifically intended for:
- Individuals already employed as Grade R practitioners
- Teachers looking to upgrade to formal recognition
Important Note:
- The final intake for this diploma is 2025, with the qualification being phased out by 2027.
- It is not open to applicants who are not currently working in Grade R classrooms.
Qualification Details:
- NQF Level: 6
- Minimum Duration: 3 years
- Maximum Completion Period: 8 years
- Delivery Mode: Distance learning (online/offline study with limited contact)
Fees for Diploma in Grade R Teaching (2025)
UNISA calculates tuition fees per module, and the cost can vary slightly from year to year.
| Category | Estimated Fee (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| Per module | R930 – R1,600 |
| Total per year (10 modules avg.) | R9,300 – R16,000 |
| Application Fee (once-off) | R110 (online) / R170 (post) |
| Registration/ICT/Admin Fees | R300 – R400 |
| Total Estimated Year 1 Cost | R13,000 – R16,500 |
International Students:
- May incur foreign student levies of approximately R1,500 per module
- Total annual cost can increase by R10,000 – R15,000 depending on number of modules
Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching (BEd FP)
If you are not currently employed in a Grade R classroom or are planning a long-term career in early childhood education, the BEd in Foundation Phase Teaching is the better option. It qualifies graduates to teach from Grade R to Grade 3 in public and private schools.
Programme Highlights:
- Qualification Code: 90102
- NQF Level: 7
- Duration: 4 years full-time (part-time available)
- Credits: 480
- Open to all applicants with a matric or equivalent qualification
Estimated Fees (2025):
- Per Module: R1,200 – R1,800
- Annual Tuition: R14,000 – R18,000 depending on number of modules
- Application and Registration Fees: ~R400
- Total Year 1 Estimate: ~R15,000 – R19,000
Short Courses in Grade R and Early Childhood Education
For those not pursuing a full diploma or degree, UNISA offers short learning programmes that provide specialized training and continuing professional development (CPD).
Examples of Short Courses:
| Course Title | Estimated Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Programme in Grade R Teaching | R6,500 | 6 months |
| Programme for Practitioners in Early Childhood Dev. | R6,200 | 6 months |
| Course in Early Learning Support (birth to 5 years) | R7,000 | 6 months |
| Advanced Programme in Inclusive Education | R3,000 – R6,000 | 3 – 6 months |
Short courses are often modular and may have flexible start dates. They do not qualify graduates for full-time teaching posts but are excellent for upgrading skills or earning SACE CPD points.
Admission Requirements
Diploma in Grade R Teaching (90173):
- Matric (NSC) with diploma pass
- Proof of employment in a registered Grade R classroom (very strict)
BEd in Foundation Phase Teaching (90102):
- NSC or Senior Certificate with university exemption
- No teaching experience required
Short Courses:
- Often open to anyone with matric
- May require current employment in education or basic teaching experience
Phasing Out: What You Need to Know About the Diploma in Grade R Teaching
Due to policy shifts and the need to professionalize the teaching workforce, the Department of Basic Education and UNISA have announced:
- No new applications for the diploma will be accepted after 2025
- Existing students will be allowed to complete until 2027
- New entrants will be directed to the BEd Foundation Phase Teaching programme instead
This shift emphasizes the importance of completing your diploma on time or preparing for a transition to the BEd if you’re starting later.
2025 Application & Registration Timeline
| Step | Estimated Timeframe (2025) |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | August – October 2024 |
| Final Date to Apply | Likely November 2024 |
| Registration Window | January – February 2025 |
| Semester 1 Begins | February 2025 |
| Semester 2 Intake | July – August 2025 (limited courses) |
Funding and Bursary Options
Several funding options are available for students pursuing Grade R teaching:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition and accommodation for qualifying students (only available for full qualifications, not short courses)
- Funza Lushaka Bursary: Prioritizes students pursuing BEd degrees in critical phases
- Employer Sponsorships: Often available to teachers already employed in public schools
- Payment Plans: UNISA allows payment per module to spread costs
Career Opportunities After Qualification
With Diploma in Grade R Teaching:
- Registered Grade R teacher in public or private schools
- Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre manager
- Assistant teacher in Grade 1 classes
With BEd in Foundation Phase:
- Fully qualified to teach Grades R–3 in South African schools
- Eligible to apply for SACE registration
- Better employment prospects in both public and private sectors
Sample Budget for a First-Year Diploma Student (2025)
| Item | Estimated Cost (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | R110 |
| Registration/Admin Fees | R400 |
| Tuition (10 Modules Avg.) | R13,000 |
| Learning Materials (Books) | R1,500 |
| Internet/Data | R2,000 (annual) |
| Total | R17,010 |
Related:
- Milpark Education – Fees, Courses, Online Application
- Social Work Requirements At UNISA
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Conclusion
Grade R is a great course to study in South Africa. Graduates with Grade R teaching certificates are highly demanded in the country. Besides, to study Grade R courses in South Africa and become an expert in the field, one should attend a good university. The University of South Africa is one of the best South African universities to earn a Grade R teaching degree. In this article, the Grade R courses you can offer and their fees have been provided. Also, above, you would find some useful information that will help you even after you graduate as a Grade R programme student.