Cum Laude Requirements at UNISA

If you’re studying at the University of South Africa (UNISA) and aiming to graduate cum laude (with distinction), here’s what you need to know about meeting the requirements:

What Does “Cum Laude” Mean at UNISA?

Graduating cum laude is a mark of excellence that indicates a student has not only completed their qualification but has done so with outstanding academic performance.

Requirements for Cum Laude at UNISA

To qualify for this honour, you must meet all three of these criteria:

1. Pass All Modules for the Qualification
   • Every module required for your qualification must be successfully completed.
2. Pass All Final-Level Modules at the First Attempt
   • This applies to the last set of modules in your programme. If you had to rewrite or repeat any of these modules, you unfortunately won’t qualify for cum laude.
3. Achieve an Overall Average of 75%
   • Your final average across all modules must be 75% or higher. This average is calculated from the marks of all modules within the qualification.

Recognition of Cum Laude Achievement

• Your Advance Statement of Results and your certificate will reflect the fact that you achieved the qualification with distinction.
• However, individual modules passed with distinction will not appear as such on your certificate. They are recognised internally but are not officially noted.

Tips for Achieving Cum Laude

• Plan Your Studies Wisely: Ensure you balance your workload so that you can consistently perform well across all modules.
• Stay Focused on Final-Level Modules: Prioritise passing these modules on your first attempt, as this is non-negotiable for cum laude.
• Aim for High Marks in Every Module: While 75% is the minimum average required, scoring higher can give you a buffer in case of a tougher module.

If you meet these criteria, you’ll graduate cum laude from UNISA, a prestigious recognition of your hard work and dedication.