Students at the UA can register at any time of the semester or year – whenever it suits them, depending on their personal circumstances. This means that if issues such as finances, work pressures or family issues prevent students from registering, they do not need to wait until the following year January to register, but can register and start studying as soon as they are ready.

The University philosophy is that a student can rather progress at a slower pace, as their finances allow, than not have the opportunity to study at all. For this reason, the UA has structured its offering in the following way: Students are allowed more time to complete their studies. This means that if a student experiences a lack of funds, he or she can put their studies on hold until they have sufficient funds available. Students pay their studies at various milestones during the semester, so a lump sum is not required at only one or two points. This spreads the expenses out over the semester. There are four exam opportunities in the year. This allows students to take a break for financial and other reasons, without losing too much study time.

Due to the unique intrinsic features of Open Distance Learning, such as fewer personnel hours spent, much smaller campuses to maintain etc., the University is able to offer affordable education at very competitive rates.

Instead of relying on scholarships, loans and/or family and community commitments, the two University allows you to study whilst earning an income. Two further advantages of studying while working are: You can start building a career You can apply your learning at your workplace – both you and the workplace will benefit, the University offer four examination opportunities during the year. This means that if work pressures prevent you from studying at a specific time, you can opt for the next exam opportunity.

The University offers a wide range of text books, research articles and other supporting information sources from across the globe via our Electronic Resource Centre or e-Library. The benefits of having the different books available in electronic format are: No limitations on the number of copies in the library; the saving on purchasing of costly books and the ability to selectively download some portions of materials.

Through the UA distance learning programmes, a student can take up a job anywhere or relocate for other reasons without interrupting his or her studies – even across borders. This ensures continuity of effort and saves on registration and tuition fees at new institutions.

Students will soon be able to communicate with administrators and lecturers using electronic and mobile applications. This includes receiving materials and information. This will save time and money.

At the University, each student can progress at his or her own pace. Multiple examination sessions facilitate progress without compromising quality. Whatever the reason for studying at a different pace – be it time, financial means, ability, work pressures or personal circumstances – a student can now determine and maintain his or her own pace.