Applying to the University of South Africa (UNISA) is only the beginning of your journey. Once you’ve submitted your application, the next critical step is to upload all required supporting documents. Without these, your application will not be processed, and you could lose your spot entirely. Understanding when, where, and how to upload your documents correctly can make the difference between acceptance and rejection.
This complete guide will walk you through the entire process of uploading documents to UNISA after applying. It covers everything from the types of documents required and accepted formats to step-by-step instructions and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Uploading Documents Matters
UNISA receives hundreds of thousands of applications annually. To streamline the selection process, the university only processes complete applications. If you fail to upload your documents on time or incorrectly, your application may be:
- Delayed in processing
- Rejected for being incomplete
- Disqualified without notice
Document uploads are your opportunity to prove your eligibility and qualify for admission. UNISA cannot assess your application unless all required documents are present and correctly formatted.
When Should You Upload Documents to UNISA?
The best time to upload your documents is immediately after you submit your online application. UNISA allows you to upload documents:
- During the online application process
- After submission, via a dedicated upload portal
- In response to a request if documents are missing or rejected
It’s crucial to upload your documents before the application deadline, as late uploads may not be accepted.
Documents Required When Applying to UNISA
The documents you need to upload depend on whether you are applying as an undergraduate, postgraduate, international student, or returning student. However, the most commonly required documents include:
For First-Time Undergraduate Applicants
- Certified copy of your Senior Certificate or National Senior Certificate
- Certified copy of your ID (South African citizens)
- Certified copy of passport (international applicants)
- Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)
- Sworn translations if documents are not in English or Afrikaans
For Returning or Transfer Students
- Official academic records from previous institutions
- Conduct certificate from your former university
- Certified ID or passport copy
- Proof of qualification from UNISA or another institution (if applicable)
For Postgraduate Applicants
- Complete academic transcripts
- Honours or bachelor’s degree certificates
- Certified ID or passport copy
- Detailed CV or research proposal (for research degrees)
- Proof of payment for evaluation (in some cases)
For International Applicants
- All documents listed above
- SAQA evaluation certificate (for foreign qualifications)
- Study visa or permit
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
Requirements for Uploaded Documents
UNISA has strict formatting rules to ensure documents are easy to read and process. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Format: PDF only
- File Size: Under 2MB per file
- Certification: Certified within the last 6 months
- File Naming: Use clear names like
ID_Document.pdf
,Matric_Certificate.pdf
- Language: English or Afrikaans only; others must be officially translated
Failure to comply with these requirements could result in document rejection.
Step-by-Step: How to Upload Your Documents After Applying
Once you’ve submitted your online application and received your student number, you can proceed to upload your documents.
Step 1: Visit the UNISA Document Upload Portal
Go to the official UNISA document upload page
This page is designed for applicants who have already submitted their application and now need to submit supporting documents.
Step 2: Enter Your Student Number
Enter the student number that UNISA emailed to you after your application. Without this number, your documents cannot be linked to your application.
Step 3: Upload Each Document Individually
Click on the upload button and select each file from your device. Match the document type with the correct category, such as:
- Identity document
- Academic qualification
- Proof of residence
Wait for each file to finish uploading before moving to the next.
Step 4: Review and Submit
After uploading all required documents:
- Double-check that each file is correct and legible
- Make sure you haven’t uploaded the same file multiple times
- Click submit to finalize your document upload
Step 5: Confirmation
Once you submit your documents, you should receive an automatic confirmation email. If you don’t receive it within 24 hours, try uploading again or contact the UNISA admissions office.
What If You Encounter Errors While Uploading?
It’s not uncommon to face technical issues. Here’s how to handle them:
1. File Too Large
Compress the PDF using online tools like Smallpdf or Adobe’s compressor. Do not reduce quality to the point where the file becomes unreadable.
2. File Type Not Accepted
Only PDF files are accepted. Convert Word documents or images to PDF before uploading.
3. Upload Button Not Working
- Clear your browser cache
- Use a different browser (preferably Chrome or Firefox)
- Disable pop-up blockers
4. Incorrect Student Number
Make sure you’re using the number issued by UNISA and not your ID or old application number.
If the issue persists, contact:
- Email: study-info@unisa.ac.za
- Phone: 0800 00 1870
How to Check If Your Documents Were Received
To verify that your documents were successfully received:
- Log into the myUNISA portal using your student number and password
- Go to the “My Admin” tab and check for document status updates
- Alternatively, track your application status online, which may reflect missing or received documents
Keep checking for any change in status like:
- “Awaiting Documents”
- “Documents Received”
- “Under Review”
Updating or Re-uploading Documents
Sometimes, UNISA may reject a document due to one of the following reasons:
- Blurry or illegible copy
- Wrong document type
- Expired certification
- Unclear language
In such cases, you’ll receive an email or SMS requesting that you resubmit the affected document. Use the same upload portal, and make sure to replace the document with a corrected version.
Always respond promptly to such requests—usually within 10 days—or risk having your application cancelled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I email my documents instead of uploading them?
No. UNISA does not accept emailed documents for standard applications. All documents must be uploaded via the official online platform.
What if I forgot to upload a document?
You can return to the document upload page any time before the application window closes and upload any missing documents. However, after the deadline, uploads may no longer be accepted.
How do I know which documents are missing?
Log into the application tracking portal or check your email for communication from UNISA. The system will usually highlight what’s missing.
Are certified copies required?
Yes. Every document must be certified within the last 6 months. Scanned certified copies are accepted but must be clear and legible.
Can I upload documents for someone else?
Yes, provided you have their student number and documents. However, it’s best if the applicant handles it to avoid errors.
Tips to Ensure a Smooth Upload Process
- Name each file clearly and uniquely
- Keep all files in one folder on your device for easy access
- Use a reliable internet connection to avoid upload interruptions
- Save a copy of your confirmation receipt
- Set reminders to check your application status weekly
Consequences of Not Uploading Documents
Failing to upload your documents will result in:
- An “Incomplete Application” status
- Automatic rejection without notice
- Loss of opportunity to register even if you meet all criteria
It is your responsibility to ensure your application is complete and up to date.
Conclusion
Uploading documents to UNISA after applying is not a secondary task—it’s a crucial part of the application process. The university cannot evaluate or process your application without the appropriate supporting documentation. By preparing early, following formatting guidelines, and staying responsive, you increase your chances of successful admission.
Take document submission seriously, treat it with the same urgency as the application itself, and always double-check for completion. This small yet essential step could be the key that opens the door to your academic future at UNISA.