What You Need to Know About University of Johannesburg
UJ came together from the merger of Rand Afrikaans University, Technikon Witwatersrand, and parts of Vista University. That history means you get both traditional degree programs and more hands-on, career focused diplomas under one roof. It's one of the biggest universities in Gauteng, with strong Business, Health Sciences, Engineering and IT faculties.
If you're chasing a spot in a competitive program like Optometry or Chartered Accountancy, you need a high APS and top marks in Maths. But UJ also runs extended degree and diploma options with lower entry points, so a mid-range APS doesn't shut you out completely.
What APS Do You Need?
UJ uses the standard APS system, best 6 subjects excluding Life Orientation, out of a maximum of 42. Score requirements vary hugely by faculty. Optometry asks for 34 APS with 60% for both English and Maths. Accounting (CA) wants 33 APS with 60% for Maths, and Biokinetics needs 32 APS with Maths or 33 APS with Maths Lit.
On the lower end, extended degree programs in Business like Accounting or Business Management open up at 25 APS with Maths or 28 APS with Maths Lit. Sport Management is one of the easier entry points at 23 APS with Mathematics. Watch out though, some programs like Accounting (CA) don't accept Maths Lit at all, so check the subject requirements before you get your hopes up.
Fees and Funding
Figuring out funding is stressful, but let's break down what UJ actually costs. As a first year day student, you'll pay at least R5,950 upfront. Yearly tuition runs from about R34,000 to over R66,000 depending on your faculty. If you want res, the upfront payment is R9,850.
NSFAS is open if you qualify as a South African citizen. UJ also runs merit bursaries tied to your APS. Score 37 to 39 APS and you get 50% off tuition. Score 40 to 41 APS and you get 75% off.
Hit 42 APS and tuition is 100% covered. There's also the Orange Carpet campaign for top achievers. It's for first time applicants with 37 APS or higher, who scored at least 70% in their six best subjects.
Life on Campus
UJ has res across all its campuses, but spots go fast, so apply for accommodation as soon as you're accepted. If you don't get a res spot, there's accredited off-campus housing to fall back on. Campus life includes student centres, Wi-Fi, and decent public transport links between campuses.
Safety is reasonable, but Joburg is still Joburg, so keep your phone and valuables close. Not sure if your marks are enough? Use our free APS calculator to check where you stand.
