If you're thinking of applying for a bridging course at the University of South Africa (UNISA), you're in the right place. Bridging courses can help you gain entry into a degree programme or refresh your knowledge in a particular field. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps you need to take to apply for a bridging course at UNISA.

Introduction

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of the largest universities in Africa, providing distance learning opportunities to thousands of students worldwide. UNISA offers a variety of programmes, including bridging courses, to help students achieve their academic goals. In this article, we'll focus on how to apply for a bridging course at UNISA.

What is a Bridging Course?

A bridging course is a programme designed to help students who don't meet the entry requirements for a particular degree programme. Bridging courses can also be taken to refresh your knowledge in a particular field before starting a degree programme. UNISA offers two types of bridging courses: the Foundation Programme and the Extended Programme.

Why Take a Bridging Course at UNISA?

Taking a bridging course at UNISA has many benefits. It can help you gain entry into a degree programme, improve your academic skills, and refresh your knowledge in a particular field. UNISA's bridging courses are designed to be flexible and convenient, allowing you to study at your own pace and from anywhere in the world.

Types of Bridging Courses Offered by UNISA

UNISA offers two types of bridging courses: the Foundation Programme and the Extended Programme.

Foundation Programme

The Foundation Programme is designed to help students who don't meet the entry requirements for a degree programme. The programme covers the basic knowledge and skills required for university-level studies. The Foundation Programme consists of four modules: Academic English, Numeracy, Life and Environmental Sciences, and Accounting.

Extended Programme

The Extended Programme is designed for students who need to improve their academic skills before starting a degree programme. The programme includes additional modules in Mathematics, English, and Life and Environmental Sciences. The Extended Programme can be taken over one or two years.

Eligibility Criteria for Bridging Courses at UNISA

To be eligible for a bridging course at UNISA, you must meet the following criteria:

Academic Qualifications

You must have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching (LOLT) of the degree programme you want to study. You must also have a minimum of 40% in Mathematics (or Mathematics Literacy) and a minimum of 40% in any four other NSC subjects.

English Language Proficiency

If English is not your first language, you must have a minimum score of 60% in the English language proficiency test. UNISA accepts the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) as proof of English language proficiency.

How to Apply for a Bridging Course at UNISA

Now that you know what a bridging course is and why it's important to take one at UNISA, let's take a look at the application process.

Step 1: Check the Application Dates and Requirements

Before you apply for a bridging course at UNISA, make sure you check the application dates and requirements. The application dates for each academic year are usually announced in August of the previous year. You can check the application dates on the UNISA website or in the prospectus.

Step 2: Create a MyUNISA Account

To apply for a bridging course at UNISA, you'll need to create a MyUNISA account. MyUNISA is an online platform that allows you to apply for courses, track your application status, and access your academic record.

To create a MyUNISA account, go to the UNISA website and click on the “MyUNISA” tab. Follow the prompts to create your account.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form

Once you've created your MyUNISA account, you can start your online application. Log in to your MyUNISA account and click on the “Apply for Admission” tab. Select “Bridging Course” as your qualification type and follow the prompts to complete the application form.

Step 4: Submit the Application and Required Documents

After you've completed the application form, you'll need to submit the application and required documents. The required documents include certified copies of your academic qualifications, a copy of your ID or passport, and proof of English language proficiency (if English is not your first language).

You can submit your application and required documents online or by post. If you choose to submit your application online, you'll need to upload the required documents as scanned copies. If you choose to submit your application by post, you'll need to send certified copies of the required documents to the UNISA address provided on the application form.

What Happens After You Apply?

After you've submitted your application and required documents, UNISA will review your application and notify you of the outcome. If your application is successful, you'll receive a letter of acceptance and instructions on how to register for your bridging course.

If your application is unsuccessful, you'll receive a letter explaining why your application was unsuccessful and what you can do to improve your chances of success in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete a bridging course at UNISA?

The duration of a bridging course depends on the programme. The Foundation Programme can be completed in one year, while the Extended Programme can be completed in one or two years.

How much does a bridging course at UNISA cost?

The cost of a bridging course at UNISA depends on the programme. You can check the fees on the UNISA website or in the prospectus.

Can I apply for a bridging course if I don't meet the English language proficiency requirements?

No, you must meet the English language proficiency requirements to be eligible for a bridging course at UNISA.

Can I apply for a bridging course if I don't have a National Senior Certificate?

No, you must have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching (LOLT) of the degree programme you want to study to be eligible for a bridging course at UNISA.

Can I study any degree programme after completing a bridging course at UNISA?

No, completing a bridging course does not guarantee admission to a degree programme. You'll still need to meet the admission requirements for your chosen degree programme.Can I study any degree programme after completing a bridging course at UNISA?