1. How do I apply to register to study at Unisa?
You need to apply Online. The dates on which the Online applications open are found on myUnisa website: WWW.UNISA.AC.ZA.
2. What admission requirements must you fulfil to be able to register for the Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work (HCSAW)?
It is important that you apply for a police clearance certificate during the application process so that you can submit it immediately during registration.
Click on the following link to see what the admission requirements are for the HCSAW:
3. What admission requirements must you fulfil to be able to register for the Bachelor in Social Work (BSW)?
It is important that you apply for a police clearance certificate during the application process so that you can submit it immediately during registration.
Click on the following link to see what the admission requirements are for the BSW:
4. What is a police clearance certificate?
It is important that you apply for a police clearance certificate during the application process so that you can submit it immediately during registration.
A police clearance certificate is a document that the South African Police Service issues after checking to see whether you have a criminal record (i.e., previous arrest, conviction and criminal proceedings) and finding that you have none. Unisa Department of Social Work requires you to obtain such clearance, because the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP), as the regulatory body entrusted to set and maintain standards of education and practice of the social service professionals (social work and child and youth care work) in the Republic of South Africa, makes having it a mandatory requirement for student social workers. For more information about the above, click here:
We encourage you to read more about how to obtain a police clearance on this web page.
5. You must have a matriculation/higher certificate to be able to register for the HCSAW or for the BSW. You might wonder: if I am still waiting to receive my certificate, will I, nevertheless, be able to write the screening test?
Yes, you must have a matriculation/higher certificate to be able to register for the HCSAW or for the BSW. Even if you are still waiting to receive your matric certificate, you will be invited to write the screening test, as long as you satisfy Unisa’s admission requirements for the qualification. Please ensure that Unisa has your correct contact details, including your correct cell phone number and e-mail address. Please alert the University as soon as possible if your contact details change, so that your application status remains valid with us.
6. What is a testimonial?
A testimonial is a written recommendation from any credible source, such as a character/academic reference that may be provided by a past teacher of yours. A sound testimonial vouches for your credibility as an individual and for the level of expertise that you have already attained. Having a solid document of reference serves to strengthen your reputation, by means of it expressing the level of trust that others have in you and in your suitability to register for either a BSW or an HCSAW. For instance, a testimonial may include such information as how long your credible sources have known you, as well as a description of your characteristics and qualities.
7. Of what does the online screening test consist?
Based on case studies, this screening test comprise of multiple-choice questions and you will have two hours to complete this test. The questions focus on aspects of personality, personal qualities, interpersonal skills and the problem-solving skills.
On your successful completion of the test, and if you satisfy the requirements to register for either the BSW or the HCSAW, you will receive a confirmation letter requesting you to register for the qualification.
8. Will I be automatically accepted into the BSW programme, once I’ve passed the HCSAW programme?
No, you must apply to be admitted to the BSW, for which you will have to write another screening test. Your acceptance for the BSW programme will depend on whether you meet the set requirements concerned.
9. Once I’ve passed the HCSAW, and I want to apply to register for the BSW programme, will I need to resubmit the necessary documentation?
Yes, you will have to resubmit the necessary documentation (see BSW admission requirements) required to register for BSW qualification.
10. Is the HCSAW a bridging qualification to the BSW programme?
No, HCSAW is a stand-alone qualification. You must apply for BSW complete the screening test, and if you score above the set cut-off percentage for the screening test, you will be offered a place in the BSW programme, for which you can register on condition that you present the mandatory matriculation certificate (if applicable), a Police Clearance Certificate, and testimonials.
11. What are possible careers in social work?
Once you have completed your degree, amongst others, you can choose to work in any of the following sectors: faith-based or church-based organisations; government or non-governmental organisations; schools; courts; correctional services; hospitals; corporate; private practice; academia; child and family organisations; and rehabilitation centres, among others.
12. Where do I find the curriculum of the HCSAW qualification?
Please click on the following link to access the curriculum of the HCSAW qualification?
13. Where do I find the curriculum of the BSW qualification?
Please click on the following link to access the curriculum of the BSW qualification?
14. Is possessing basic computer skills a requirement to register for the BSW?
Yes, it is necessary for you to have basic computer skills to register for the BSW. For instance, students with basic computer skills benefit when doing assignments/ portfolios/ reports and examinations as it must be typed out not handwritten. Moreover, for accessing Unisa websites and submitting assignments/ exam papers online. For more information, please follow the link below: https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/myunisa/default/Study-@-Unisa/Prepare-for-study-success/Connect-online.
15. How does the selection process work?
The social work screening test and its results are a mandatory requirement for admission.
Applicants who do not complete this assessment will be disqualified and marked as "does not meet college requirements", even if they meet other criteria. Admission to this degree is highly competitive, with limited space available. Applicants with the highest-ranking marks are admitted, provided they also meet all other specified requirements.
Appeals for this qualification cannot be accommodated due to its oversubscription.
16. What are the different fields of social work?
Amongst others, the following are different fields of social work: social development; social policy; community development; family development and guidance; substance abuse; gender-based violence; youth and child intervention; foster care; adoption; statutory work; gerontology; crime prevention; mental health; people with disabilities; the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and occupational social work and research.
Last modified: Mon Jan 20 06:55:19 SAST 2025