Why Is My UNISA Application Still Pending? Real Reasons & Solutions”

Applying to the University of South Africa (UNISA) is exciting — but waiting for feedback can be stressful. Many applicants spend weeks refreshing their inbox or logging into the portal, not sure what each status means or whether they should be worried.

This guide explains how to check your UNISA application status, what each status message means, common reasons for delays, and the steps you should take once your status changes.

How to Check Your UNISA Application Status

You can check your application status online using UNISA’s official application portal. Here’s the simple method:

Step-by-step:

1. Go to the UNISA Application Status page.

2. Enter the following details:

   • Student number

   • Surname and full name

   • Date of birth

3. Click Submit to view the latest update on your application.

If you recently submitted your application, allow a few days for the system to update.

UNISA Application Status Codes Explained

UNISA uses several status messages. Understanding them helps you know where you stand and what actions to take.

1. Application Received

UNISA has successfully received your application, but it has not been evaluated yet.
What to do: Nothing — just wait.

2. Pending or In Progress

Your application is currently being reviewed. This is the most common status for many weeks.
What to do: Be patient. Make sure all required documents were uploaded correctly.

3. Required Documents / Incomplete Application

This means UNISA needs additional documents or something you submitted was unclear.
You must:

• Log into the portal

• Upload any missing items (ID, matric results, qualifications, certificates, etc.)

Failure to update documents may lead to rejection.

4. Provisionally Accepted

Good news — your application meets the minimum requirements.
However, you still need to:

• Submit outstanding documents (if any)

• Confirm your acceptance once official registration opens

This is NOT final acceptance yet, but it’s a very positive sign.

5. Accepted

Congratulations! You have been officially accepted into the programme.
Your next step is to register during UNISA registration dates.

6. Declined / Not Accepted

UNISA could not offer you a space. This may be due to limited capacity or not meeting entry requirements.

What you can do:

• Apply for a different qualification

• Improve your results and apply again next cycle

• Consider Higher Certificate programmes if you want a pathway to a degree