University of Johannesburg (UJ)

The University of Johannesburg, known as UJ, is one of South Africa's largest residential universities. It came into being on 1 January 2005 and now teaches more than 50,000 students across four campuses in and around Johannesburg. All UJ applications are free, which makes it an easy choice to include on your list.

About UJ

UJ formed through the merger of Rand Afrikaans University and Technikon Witwatersrand. Shortly before that, in 2004, the Soweto and East Rand campuses of Vista University joined Rand Afrikaans University. As a result, UJ combines university degrees with the career-focused diplomas of a former technikon.

Its first Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ihron Rensburg, led the university from 2006 to 2017. Today, UJ has more than 3,000 international students from about 80 countries.

Campuses

UJ has four campuses: Auckland Park Kingsway, Auckland Park Bunting Road, Doornfontein and Soweto. Each one offers different faculties and programmes, so check where your qualification is taught. Each campus also has its own residences.

Applying to UJ

UJ opens applications on 1 April of the year before you plan to study. For the 2027 intake, applications closed at 12:00 on 31 October 2026, which was also the closing date for residence applications. UJ says that it does not accept late applications.

You may choose up to two undergraduate study options in each application year. Because UJ does not charge an application fee, you can apply online without paying anything. However, a programme can fill up before the closing date, so apply early.

Fees and funding

Tuition depends on your programme and the modules you take. Residence costs extra if you live in university housing. Qualifying students can apply for NSFAS, and UJ also offers merit bursaries and financial aid. Browse our bursaries to find company and government funding that covers UJ.

Is UJ right for you?

UJ suits students who want a large Johannesburg university with a choice of degrees and diplomas. Its free application, late closing date and four campuses make it one of the most accessible options in Gauteng.

Use your two choices wisely, though. Pick one programme that matches your marks comfortably, and one that stretches you a little, so you have a strong chance of an offer.

Before you apply to UJ

Check the admission point score and subject requirements for your two choices, as these vary across UJ's faculties. Apply for residence at the same time if you need housing, since it shares the same closing date. Because a programme can fill before the closing date, the earlier you apply the better your chances. Keep your student number from the application, because you use it to track your outcome online.