The University of South Africa (UNISA) is the largest distance learning university in Africa, known for providing flexible and accessible education to students from all walks of life . For students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for their desired degree or diploma, UNISA offers a pathway through bridging courses, formally known as Higher Certificates or Extended Programmes . These courses are designed to prepare students for tertiary education, fill gaps in prior learning, and build the foundational knowledge needed for academic success .
UNISA Bridging Courses 2026 List & Application
What Are UNISA Bridging Courses?
UNISA bridging courses are introductory-level learning programmes, typically lasting from six months to one year . They are also referred to as Extended Degrees or Higher Certificates . Successful completion of a bridging course is recognized as a basis for admission into higher qualifications, improving your eligibility and increasing your chances of meeting the entry criteria for your chosen field of study . They do not, however, guarantee automatic admission into a degree programme .
List of UNISA Bridging and Extended Courses for 2026
UNISA offers bridging courses across several colleges. The table below lists the extended programmes available, categorized by college and qualification .
Here’s a polished version of your Qualifications & Programme Codes Table with consistent formatting, bolded college names, and smoother phrasing for clarity:
Qualifications & Programme Codes
| College | Qualification | Programme / Stream Code |
|---|---|---|
| College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences | Diploma in Nature Conservation | 98024-XNC |
| Diploma in Ornamental Horticulture | 98025-XOH | |
| Diploma in Animal Health | 98026-XAH | |
| Bachelor of Consumer Science (Food & Clothing Stream) | 98005-XFC | |
| Bachelor of Consumer Science (Food & Nutrition Stream) | 98005-XFN | |
| Bachelor of Consumer Science (Food Retail Management Stream) | 98005-XSJ | |
| BSc in Environmental Management (Botany) | 98052-XEB | |
| BSc in Environmental Management (Chemistry) | 98052-XEC | |
| BSc in Environmental Management (Zoology) | 98052-XEZ | |
| College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (Life Sciences) | BSc in Life Sciences (Biochemistry & Botany) | 98053-XBB |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Biochemistry & Microbiology) | 98053-XBM | |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Biochemistry & Physiology) | 98053-XBP | |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Biochemistry & Zoology) | 98053-XBZ | |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Botany & Microbiology) | 98053-XBN | |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Botany & Zoology with Geography) | 98053-BZG | |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Genetics & Zoology) | 98053-GZB | |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Microbiology & Physiology) | 98053-XMP | |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Microbiology & Zoology) | 98053-XMZ | |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Physiology & Zoology) | 98053-XPZ | |
| BSc in Life Sciences (Psychology & Physiology with Genetics) | 98053-XPG | |
| College of Engineering, Science, and Technology | Diploma in Information Technology | 98806-XIT |
| BSc in Computing | 98906-XCO | |
| BSc in Informatics | 98907-XIN | |
| BSc (Applied Mathematics & Computer Science) | 98801-XAC | |
| BSc (Applied Mathematics & Physics) | 98801-XAP | |
| BSc (Applied Mathematics & Statistics) | 98801-XAS | |
| BSc (Chemistry & Applied Mathematics) | 98801-XCM | |
| BSc (Chemistry & Computer Science) | 98801-XCC | |
| BSc (Chemistry & Physics) | 98801-XCP | |
| BSc (Chemistry & Statistics) | 98801-XCS | |
| BSc (General) | 98801-XGE | |
| BSc (Mathematics & Applied Mathematics) | 98801-XMM | |
| BSc (Mathematics & Chemistry) | 98801-XMH | |
| BSc (Mathematics & Computer Science) | 98801-XMC | |
| BSc (Mathematics & Statistics) | 98801-XMS | |
| BSc (Statistics & Physics) | 98801-XSP |
Additional Fields with Bridging Courses
Beyond the programmes listed above, UNISA offers Higher Certificates in other professional fields .
Law: The Higher Certificate in Law provides a foundation in basic legal principles, South African law, and legal writing.
Accounting: Students can pursue the Higher Certificate in Accounting, covering fundamental principles, financial accounting, and management accounting.
Information Technology: The Higher Certificate in Information Technology introduces students to programming, systems analysis, database management, and computer networks.
Education: The Higher Certificate in Education is designed for aspiring educators, covering educational theory, practice, and subject-specific content.
Entry Requirements for UNISA Bridging Courses
Entry requirements for bridging courses are generally more accessible than direct degree entry. The typical requirements include :
General Entry Requirements
A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification.
A minimum Admission Point Score (APS), which varies by programme.
For the Extended Science Pathway (ESP), specific score criteria apply:
49% or less in Mathematics or English at NSC level, or
59% or less at Standard Grade (SG).
A matric point score of 24 or less for Bachelor’s degrees, or 20 or less for Diploma qualifications .
Language Requirements
– Proficiency in English or Afrikaans is required, as these are the primary languages of instruction.
– Some programmes may require specific language passes at the matriculation level.
Additional Requirements
– Mature age exemption may be available for applicants aged 23 and older.
– Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessments may be considered for mature students.
– Work experience may be taken into account for certain programmes.
How to Apply for UNISA Bridging Courses 2026
The application process for UNISA bridging courses follows a structured timeline and requires careful preparation. Applications for Short Learning Programmes, including bridging courses, are submitted online .
Application Timeline for 2026
Undergraduate qualifications (Higher Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees): 18 August 2025 to 10 October 2025
Honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas: 18 August 2025 to 10 October 2025
Masters and doctoral qualifications: 2 September 2025 to 21 November 2025
Short courses for 2026:
– First semester modules: 5 January 2026 to 13 February 2026
– Year modules: until 13 March 2026
Step-by-Step Application Guide
1. Visit the UNISA website: Go to the official UNISA website at www.unisa.ac.za.
2. Navigate to applications: Click on the “Admissions” tab and then select “Apply for Admission 2026”.
3. Choose qualification type: Select the type of qualification, either undergraduate or postgraduate.
4. Select the application link: Click on the “Short Learning Programmes” or “Apply Now” link.
5. Provide personal details: If you are a new student, you will need to create a student profile. Returning applicants can log in with their existing student number (note: numbers starting with 7 are for Short Learning Programmes).
6. Select your qualification: Choose the Higher Certificate or extended programme you wish to apply for from the list.
7. Upload supporting documents: Prepare and upload certified copies of all required documents.
– A certified copy of your ID or passport.
– Certified copies of your academic transcripts and certificates (e.g., Senior Certificate, National Senior Certificate).
– Proof of payment for the application fee.
– Sworn translations of documents if they are not in English or Afrikaans.
– A copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable) .
8. Pay the application fee: The online application fee is R150.00 for the 2026 academic year . Keep your proof of payment.
9. Submit your application: Complete and submit your application before the deadline. Ensure your application is complete, as incomplete applications will not be accepted .
What Happens After You Apply?
After you submit your application, UNISA will assess it and inform you of the outcome . If your application is successful, UNISA will verify and capture your documents and perform a temporary registration on your behalf. You will receive a “Temporarily Registered” (TP) letter via e-mail and SMS, which will also indicate the fee that needs to be paid to activate your registration . Applicants who do not qualify for admission will also receive feedback .
Contact Information for Enquiries
For any questions or assistance regarding bridging courses, you can contact the relevant department :
Administrative Enquiries (Extended Science Pathway): espall@unisa.ac.za
General Academic Enquiries:
College of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences: CAESenquiries@unisa.ac.za
College of Science, Engineering and Technology: CSETenquiries@unisa.ac.za
Discipline-specific Enquiries:
Supervisor – Extended Science Pathway (CAES): 011 471 2510
Supervisor – Extended Science Pathway (CSET): 011 670 9224
School of Engineering: 011 471 3041
School of Computing: 011 670 9132
We hope this guide helps you navigate your options for bridging courses at UNISA in 2026. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask.