If you’re a student at the University of South Africa (UNISA), you may need to submit a declaration form during your studies.
This form confirms that your work is your own and follows the university’s rules.
Submitting it correctly is important to avoid problems like assignment rejection or delays in your academic progress.
What is the UNISA Declaration Form?
The UNISA declaration form is a statement that you include with your assignments or research work.
It confirms that the work is your own and that you haven’t copied from others without proper acknowledgment. This is important to maintain academic honesty.
For example, in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES), students must include a specific declaration in their dissertations or theses.
Why Do I Need to Submit a Declaration Form?
UNISA requires students to submit a declaration form to ensure that all academic work is original and free from plagiarism.
By signing the declaration, you confirm that you understand and follow the university’s rules on academic integrity.
This helps maintain the quality and trustworthiness of UNISA’s qualifications.
How Do I Submit the Declaration Form?
The process for submitting the declaration form depends on the type of assignment:
For Written Assignments:
- Prepare Your Assignment: Ensure your assignment includes the declaration statement, confirming that the work is your own.
- Log in to myUnisa: Access your account at myUnisa.
- Navigate to Assignments: Go to your module and find the assignment you need to submit.
- Upload Your File: Click on the “Submit” link next to the assignment. Use the “Browse” button to select your file, and then click “Continue” to upload it.
- Verify and Submit: Check that the correct file has been uploaded. If everything is correct, click “Submit Assignment” to finalize the submission.
For Dissertations or Theses:
- Include the Declaration: Insert the required declaration page in your dissertation or thesis, as specified by your college.
- Submit for Review: Send your final draft to your supervisor for approval.
- Turnitin Check: Your supervisor will submit your work through Turnitin to check for plagiarism.
- Final Submission: Once approved, follow the instructions provided by your college for the final submission process.
When Should I Submit the Declaration Form?
You should submit the declaration form along with your assignment or research work.
For assignments, it’s advisable to submit at least 72 hours before the due date to avoid any last-minute issues.
For dissertations or theses, follow the deadlines provided by your college.
Can I Resubmit If I Made a Mistake?
Yes, UNISA allows resubmission of assignments under certain conditions:
- The resubmit option is available.
- The assignment has not been marked yet.
- The due date has not passed.
If you need to resubmit, go to the assignment in myUnisa and click on the “Resubmit” link next to the assignment number.
What Happens If I Don’t Submit the Declaration Form?
Failing to submit the declaration form can lead to serious consequences:
- Your assignment or research work may not be accepted.
- You could face disciplinary action for academic misconduct.
- Your marks may be withheld or reduced.
Always ensure that you include the declaration form with your submissions to avoid these issues.
Where Can I Find the Declaration Form?
The declaration form or statement is usually provided in your module’s tutorial letter or on the myUnisa site.
For dissertations or theses, specific declaration formats are available on your college’s website.
For example, the CAES provides a declaration format for dissertations and theses on their Masters & Doctoral information page.