Are you planning to study at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in 2027? Great news! UJ has officially opened applications for the 2027 academic year, giving prospective students the opportunity to apply for one of South Africa’s leading universities.
Whether you dream of becoming an engineer, teacher, accountant, lawyer, nurse, entrepreneur or software developer, the University of Johannesburg offers hundreds of qualifications designed to prepare students for successful careers.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the UJ 2027 application process, including important dates, courses offered, APS requirements, required documents, application steps and helpful tips to improve your chances of admission.
Why Choose the University of Johannesburg?
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is one of South Africa’s top public universities, attracting students from across Africa and around the world. Known for academic excellence, innovation and practical learning, UJ combines world-class education with modern facilities and strong industry partnerships.
Why thousands of students choose UJ every year
- One of South Africa’s leading universities
- More than 50,000 students
- Four modern campuses
- Hundreds of undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications
- International partnerships with universities worldwide
- Strong graduate employment rate
- Modern libraries, laboratories and innovation hubs
- Student accommodation and support services
- NSFAS and bursary opportunities for qualifying students
UJ 2027 Application Dates
Applications for the 2027 academic year are now open.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | April 2026 |
| Undergraduate Closing Date | 31 October 2026 |
| Residence Applications | Close with undergraduate applications |
| International Applications | Follow the university’s official schedule |
Tip: Do not wait until the closing date. Popular programmes often receive thousands of applications and may fill up before applications officially close.
Faculties at UJ
The University of Johannesburg has eight faculties offering career-focused qualifications.
Faculty of Business and Economics
Popular courses include:
- Accounting
- Economics
- Financial Management
- Human Resource Management
- Marketing Management
- Logistics
- Supply Chain Management
- Business Management
- Entrepreneurship
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Study opportunities include:
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Construction Management
- Quantity Surveying
- Architecture
Faculty of Health Sciences
Students can pursue careers in:
- Nursing
- Emergency Medical Care
- Chiropractic
- Podiatry
- Biomedical Technology
- Radiography
- Sport Science
Faculty of Science
Popular programmes include:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Sciences
- Zoology
Faculty of Education
Qualifications include:
- Foundation Phase Teaching
- Intermediate Phase Teaching
- Senior Phase Teaching
- Further Education and Training
Faculty of Humanities
Courses include:
- Psychology
- Journalism
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Languages
- Social Work
- Public Management
Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture
Students can study:
- Graphic Design
- Fashion Design
- Interior Design
- Fine Arts
- Jewellery Design
- Industrial Design
Faculty of Law
Students can enrol for:
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Most Popular Courses at UJ
Every year, these programmes receive a high number of applications:
- Bachelor of Education
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Accounting
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Nursing
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Human Resource Management
- Psychology
- Law
- Marketing Management
- Architecture
- Journalism
Minimum Admission Requirements
Admission requirements differ depending on the qualification.
Generally, applicants need:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| National Senior Certificate (NSC) | Required |
| APS Score | Varies by programme |
| English | Required |
| Mathematics | Required for Engineering, Science and several Commerce programmes |
| Mathematical Literacy | Accepted for selected qualifications |
| Programme Requirements | Some qualifications require interviews, portfolios or selection tests |
Meeting the minimum APS requirement does not guarantee admission because many programmes are highly competitive.
Documents Required
Before starting your application, prepare the following:
- Certified copy of your South African ID or Passport
- Grade 11 final report
- Latest Grade 12 results (if currently in Grade 12)
- National Senior Certificate (if already completed)
- Proof of payment if applicable
- Programme-specific documents where required
How to Apply for UJ 2027
Applying online is simple.
Step 1
Visit the official UJ Online Application Portal.
Step 2
Create your applicant profile.
Step 3
Choose your preferred qualification.
Step 4
Complete all personal information.
Step 5
Upload certified supporting documents.
Step 6
Review your application carefully.
Step 7
Submit your application before the closing date.
After submission, regularly check your application status and email for updates.
APS Score Guide
Below is a general guide.
| APS Score | Possible Qualification |
|---|---|
| 18โ20 | Higher Certificate |
| 21โ25 | Diploma |
| 26โ30 | Many Bachelor’s Degrees |
| 31โ35 | Competitive Bachelor’s Programmes |
| 36+ | Highly Competitive Programmes |
Remember that some programmes also require minimum percentages in specific subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Sciences or English.
Can You Apply Using Grade 11 Results?
Yes.
If you are currently in Grade 12, you may submit your application using your Grade 11 final results. Once your final Grade 12 results become available, the university will use them when making final admission decisions.
NSFAS and Financial Aid
Students who qualify financially can apply for:
- NSFAS
- Government bursaries
- Company bursaries
- Merit scholarships
- Faculty-specific funding opportunities
Apply for financial aid as early as possible.
Student Accommodation
UJ offers on-campus residences as well as accredited off-campus accommodation.
Residence applications are competitive, so submit your accommodation application as early as possible after applying for admission.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Admission
โ Apply as soon as applications open.
โ Upload clear certified documents.
โ Choose more than one programme where possible.
โ Check the APS requirements carefully.
โ Apply for NSFAS or bursaries early.
โ Monitor your email and application portal regularly.
โ Keep copies of every document you submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are UJ 2027 applications open?
Yes. Applications for the 2027 academic year are officially open.
Is there an application fee?
Online undergraduate applications have often been free for South African applicants, but always confirm the latest requirements on the official UJ website before submitting.
Can I edit my application after submitting it?
Certain information may be updated through the applicant portal while applications are still open. Check your application portal for available options.
Does meeting the APS guarantee admission?
No. Admission depends on available spaces, competition and programme-specific requirements.
Final Thoughts
The University of Johannesburg remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after universities because of its excellent academic reputation, career-focused qualifications and commitment to student success.
If you want to study at UJ in 2027, don’t wait until the last minute. Start your application today, prepare all the required documents and submit your application as early as possible. Applying early can significantly improve your chances of being admitted to your preferred qualification.
Continue Your University Journey
Before you apply, you may also want to explore:
- How to Calculate Your APS Score
- UJ APS Requirements by Course
- NSFAS Application Guide
- UJ Prospectus 2027
- Universities Open for 2027 Applications
- TVET Colleges Open for 2027 Applications
- Best Bursaries for South African Students
- How to Check Your UJ Application Status
Planning ahead today can make all the difference when it comes to securing your place at university in 2027.