If you are planning to study a teaching course at the University of South Africa (UNISA), it is crucial to know the correct closing dates for your specific qualification. UNISA uses different closing dates for different types of programmes—undergraduate teaching degrees have different deadlines from postgraduate certificates, which differ again from master’s level studies.
This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of closing dates for all UNISA teaching courses for the current academic year.
UNISA Teaching Courses Closing Dates (Current Year)
Important Note About Application Windows
UNISA operates on a strict timeline. Applications submitted after the closing date will not be accepted. Late applications are generally not considered, so it is essential to plan ahead and submit all required documents well before the deadline.
The application process involves two stages:
Admission application – Applying for a place in the qualification
Registration – Registering for specific modules once admitted
This guide focuses primarily on application closing dates, as registration dates apply only after you have been accepted into a programme.
Bachelor of Education (BEd) & Other Undergraduate Teaching Degrees
Undergraduate teaching qualifications include:
– Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching
– Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching
– Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching
Application Closing Dates
Applications for undergraduate qualifications for the current academic year closed on 11 October of the previous year.
| Qualification Type | Application Closing Date |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Education (all phases) | 11 October (previous year) |
| Other undergraduate teaching degrees | 11 October (previous year) |
Important: If you missed this deadline, you may need to wait for the next application cycle, which typically opens in August or September for the following academic year.
Registration Dates (For Admitted Students)
If you have already been accepted into an undergraduate teaching programme, the registration dates are:
| Module Type | Registration Opens | Registration Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Semester modules | Early January | Late February |
| Year modules | Early January | Late March |
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
The PGCE is a one-year postgraduate qualification for graduates who hold a university degree but did not study education at undergraduate level. It allows you to qualify as a teacher in Senior Phase and FET.
Application Closing Dates
Based on recent application cycles, PGCE applications typically close in October of the previous year. For the current academic year, the application period has passed.
| Qualification | Typical Application Closing Date |
|---|---|
| PGCE (all specialisations) | 11 October (previous year) |
Registration Dates (For Admitted Students)
If you have been admitted to a PGCE programme, registration for the current academic year opens in early January and closes in late February for semester modules.
Bachelor of Education Honours (BEd Hons)
The BEd Honours is a postgraduate qualification for qualified teachers who wish to specialise further.
Application Closing Dates
Applications for limited honours degrees for the current academic year are open for a very short window.
| Qualification | Application Opens | Application Closes |
|---|---|---|
| BEd Honours (limited qualifications) | Early June | Mid‑June |
Critical: If you are interested in a BEd Honours programme, you must apply during this narrow two-week window in June of the current year.
Registration Dates (For Admitted Students)
For admitted honours students:
– Semester modules: Registration closes in late February
– Year modules: Registration closes in late March
Master of Education (MEd)
The Master of Education is for experienced educators seeking advanced knowledge and research skills.
Application Closing Dates
Applications for master’s and doctoral qualifications for the current academic year were re-opened until mid-December of the previous year.
| Qualification | Application Closing Date |
|---|---|
| Master of Education (all specialisations) | Mid‑December (previous year) |
Note: Some qualifications may have extended deadlines. Check the UNISA website for the full list of qualifications with different closing dates.
Registration Dates (For Admitted Students)
For admitted master’s students:
| Qualification Type | Registration Opens | Registration Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Master of Education (all specialisations) | Early January | Late March |
Summary Table: UNISA Teaching Courses at a Glance
| Qualification | Application Opens | Application Closes | Registration Closes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Education (BEd) | August/September (previous year) | 11 October (previous year) | Late March (year modules) |
| PGCE | August/September (previous year) | 11 October (previous year) | Late February (semester modules) |
| BEd Honours (limited) | Early June (current year) | Mid‑June (current year) | Late March (year modules) |
| Master of Education (MEd) | Previous year | Mid‑December (previous year) | Late March |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happens if I miss the application closing date?
A: UNISA generally does not accept late applications. If you miss the closing date for your chosen qualification, you will need to wait for the next application cycle. For most undergraduate programmes, the next cycle opens in August or September for the following academic year.
Q: Are the closing dates the same for all teaching courses?
A: No. As shown in the summary table above, different qualifications have different closing dates. BEd and PGCE close in October of the previous year, while BEd Honours has a short window in June of the current year. Master’s programmes closed in December of the previous year.
Q: Can I still register if I applied late?
A: No. Application and registration are two separate processes. You must be admitted through the application process before you can register. Late applications are not accepted, so late submission means you cannot register for that academic year.
Q: Where can I find the most up-to-date closing dates?
A: The official UNISA website (www.unisa.ac.za) is the only source for accurate, current information. Check the “Apply for Admission” section regularly, as dates may be extended or changed.
Q: Is the application fee refundable?
A: No. The application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.
Final Advice
Apply early: Do not wait until the closing date. UNISA receives a high volume of applications, and it is better to submit well in advance.
Check your qualification’s specific deadline: As demonstrated above, different teaching courses have very different closing dates.
Monitor the UNISA website: Application dates can be extended or changed. The official UNISA website is your most reliable source.
Prepare your documents in advance: You will need certified copies of your ID, Matric certificate, and any previous tertiary qualifications.
Disclaimer: All dates are subject to change. Always verify current closing dates on the official UNISA website (www.unisa.ac.za) before applying.