The University of South Africa (Unisa) has opened registration for Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) for the second semester of 2026. Students who want to improve their skills, gain practical knowledge, or study a short non-degree programme can now register.
According to Unisa, registration for second semester Short Learning Programmes is open from 18 May to 10 July 2026. These programmes are offered through Unisa’s Centre for Lifelong Learning and are designed to help students develop focused skills in a shorter period.
Unisa Short Learning Programmes Registration Dates 2026
Registration opening date: 18 May 2026
Registration closing date: 10 July 2026
Institution: University of South Africa
Programme type: Short Learning Programmes
Study period: Second semester 2026
Application method: Online
Applicants must make sure they complete their registration before the closing date, as Unisa states that required documents must be uploaded by the closing date and late documents will not be accepted.
What Are Unisa Short Learning Programmes?
Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes are introductory, practical, non-degree programmes. They are created to help students develop skills and knowledge in a specific subject field quickly and effectively.
These programmes are useful for people who want to:
Improve workplace skills.
Learn new knowledge in a short time.
Meet a specific employment requirement.
Broaden their understanding of a particular subject area.
Gain practical learning without registering for a full degree or diploma.
Unisa explains that SLPs follow a “just enough” learning approach, meaning they are designed to meet a specific learning need or employment requirement.
Who Must Apply for Unisa Short Learning Programmes?
Everyone who wants to start a new Short Learning Programme must apply for admission.
This includes:
First-time Unisa applicants.
Current Unisa students changing to a new Short Learning Programme.
Applicants who previously applied but were not offered a space.
Unisa also states that applicants may apply for a maximum of two Short Learning Programmes, ranked in order of preference. However, applicants may only register for one programme if both applications are successful. (University of South Africa)
Where Are Unisa Short Learning Programmes Offered?
Unisa Short Learning Programmes are located within different academic departments in Unisa’s colleges.
They are offered and administered by the Centre for Lifelong Learning. (University of South Africa)
Examples of Unisa Short Learning Programmes
Unisa offers different categories of Short Learning Programmes, including advanced courses, programmes, short courses, and workshops. Some examples include programmes and courses in areas such as law, education, business, governance, project management, ICT, archives, public administration, safety management, languages, and more.
Examples include:
Advanced Course in Value Added Tax
Course in Practical Labour Law
Course in C++ Programming
Course in Introduction to Java Programming
Programme in Project Management
Programme in Financial Management
Programme in Grade R Teaching
Short Course in Python Programming for Everybody
Short Course in Database Design
Workshop in Business Writing Skills
Applicants should check the official Unisa Short Learning Programme page to confirm which programmes are available for registration.
Important Things to Know Before Registering
Applicants must have a valid email address and cellphone number because Unisa communicates during the application process using these details.
Supporting documents must be uploaded online before the closing date.
Unisa does not provide scanners or electronic devices, so applicants must scan and prepare their documents before starting the application process.
Applicants must accept or decline an offer within the period stated in the offer letter. If the offer is not accepted on time, Unisa may withdraw the offer and give the space to another applicant.
How to Register
Applicants must register online through the official Unisa Short Learning Programmes page.
Click here to register for Unisa Short Learning Programmes 2026
Enquiries
For Short Learning Programme enquiries, applicants can contact Unisa by email.
Email: ucl@unisa.ac.za (University of South Africa)
Final Reminder
Unisa Short Learning Programme registration for the second semester of 2026 is now open. Applicants who want to register must do so between 18 May and 10 July 2026.
Because the registration period is limited, applicants are encouraged to apply early, upload all required documents, and check their email regularly for communication from Unisa.