Changing your academic path is a big decision, and the University of South Africa (UNISA) offers a clear process for students who wish to take that step. Whether you’re rethinking your career goals or have discovered a new field of interest, you may decide it’s time to Change Your Qualification at UNISA. This means applying for a new programme that better aligns with your goals—whether it’s switching from a diploma to a degree, changing your major, or pursuing an entirely different qualification.
How to Change Your Qualification at UNISA
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully change your qualification at UNISA, from checking requirements to registering for your new course.
When Can You Change Your Qualification?
At UNISA, qualification changes can only be made during the official application periods. This typically aligns with UNISA’s general application windows for new qualifications:
- For the first semester: Applications usually open in September and close in October of the previous year.
- For the second semester (if available): Applications may open in April and close in May.
Changing qualifications outside of these application windows is not allowed. Always check the UNISA website for updated application dates.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Qualification
Step 1: Review Admission Requirements
Before initiating a change, you must check if you meet the admission criteria for the new qualification. Requirements may vary depending on the programme, and some qualifications have limited space or specific subject requirements. Use UNISA’s application tool or qualification brochures to confirm whether you qualify.
For postgraduate programmes, ensure you have the appropriate undergraduate qualification or equivalent.
Step 2: Check Your Academic Record
UNISA evaluates each application based on your academic performance. If you are an existing student with poor academic standing or who is under academic exclusion, your request to change qualifications may be declined.
You can download your academic record from your myUnisa portal to see how your performance might affect your application.
Step 3: Apply Online for the New Qualification
You cannot simply request to switch qualifications from your student portal. Instead, you must apply as if you are a new student for the qualification you want to change to.
To do this:
- Visit www.unisa.ac.za.
- Click on “Apply” > “Apply for admission”.
- Select your appropriate level (Undergraduate, Honours, Postgraduate).
- Complete the online application form and upload the required documents.
- Use your existing UNISA student number where applicable.
You may apply for a maximum of two qualifications, and the university will process your application based on the order of preference.
Step 4: Wait for the Outcome
UNISA will notify you of the outcome via email or through your myUnisa student portal. If accepted, you will receive a conditional or final offer of admission.
You must accept the offer within the deadline provided, or it will be withdrawn.
Step 5: Register for the New Qualification
Once your change has been approved and the offer accepted, you will need to register for the modules of your new qualification during the registration period.
You cannot continue with your old qualification unless you are officially registered for the new one. If your change is not approved, you may continue with your current programme.
Read more: UNISA 2ND Semester Application 2025
Important Things to Note
- Credits from your previous qualification may not automatically transfer. You’ll need to apply for credit exemptions or recognition of prior learning (RPL) separately after acceptance.
- You may not change qualifications mid-semester. All changes take effect at the beginning of the new academic period.
- If you are funded by NSFAS, you must inform them of your qualification change, as it may affect your funding.
- If you’re moving from a lower to a higher qualification (e.g., Higher Certificate to Diploma), ensure you’ve completed the necessary credits or qualification first.
Changing your qualification at UNISA is a structured process that requires planning and attention to detail. Always apply during the official application window, ensure you meet the entry requirements, and follow up on your application status. With the right approach, this change can open doors to better academic and career opportunities.
