University of South Africa
About the university
University of South Africa is the largest open distance learning university in Africa and one of the largest in the world. Based in Pretoria, it primarily offers online and distance education, allowing students from across the globe to study without relocating. UNISA provides flexible learning options, making it ideal for working professionals and students who need a self-paced academic environment. It offers a wide range of programs in business, law, education, and social sciences. The university has a strong reputation for accessibility and inclusivity, enabling higher education for millions of students across Africa and beyond.
Key information
- Location: Pretoria, ZA
- Ranking #10
- THE #1000
- National ranking #3
- Institution type: public
Popular faculties
- Business
- Law
- Education
- Social Sciences
- Accounting
- Information Technology
Programs (29)
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Finance and Accounting
- Marketing
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Law
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- History
- Linguistics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Environmental Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Education
- Fine Arts
- Music
Student body
- Total students: 400,000
- Undergraduate: 300,000
- Graduate: 100,000
- International students: 15%
Campus life
Student life at UNISA is very different from traditional universities because it is mainly a distance-learning institution. Students study remotely, which gives them flexibility to manage their own schedule and balance work, study, and personal life. The university provides online resources, digital libraries, and virtual support systems. This model is ideal for self-motivated students who prefer independent learning rather than a campus-based experience.
Housing & accommodation
Housing cost: $100 - $400 / per month
Housing options
- Private apartments
- Shared housing
- Online learning (remote study)
Student clubs and organizations
- Online student communities
- Academic forums
- Professional networks
- Virtual clubs
Career & internships
Employment rate: 75%
Partner companies
- Standard Bank
- Deloitte
- PwC
- SAP
- Microsoft
- Government of South Africa
Internships: UNISA provides limited traditional internship pathways due to its distance learning model. However, many programs encourage students to gain work experience independently while studying. The university supports career development through online career services, networking platforms, and partnerships with organizations. Postgraduate programs often include research components that enhance employability.
Admission requirements
Required documents
- Academic transcripts
- Passport copy
- English proficiency test
- Application form
Minimum GPA: 2.5
Tuition costs
- $1,500 - $4,000 / per year
- Acceptance rate: 90.00%
- Scholarships available: UNISA offers limited scholarships and bursaries, mainly focused on postgraduate students and academically strong candidates. Funding opportunities are available through external organizations, government programs, and research grants. Due to the low-cost structure of distance education, the university already provides one of the most affordable higher education options globally.
Quick facts
- Founded: 1873
- Teaching languages: english
- Study formats: offline
Contact
- [email protected]
- +27 12 429 3111