University of Johannesburg Overview

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a leading public research university in South Africa, established in 2005 through the merger of several institutions. With over 50 000 students, including more than 3 000 international students from over 80 countries, UJ is known for its multicultural environment, strong industry connections, and practical, career-focused education.

University of Johannesburg Offered Programs

  • Bachelor and Master of Commerce, Business Administration, MBA
  • Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Artificial Intelligence & Robotics)
  • Health Sciences and Medicine (Nursing, Public Health, Biomedical Sciences)
  • Law
  • Humanities and Fine Arts (Psychology, Theology, Social Sciences)
  • Science and IT (Biotechnology, Environmental Science, Computer Science)
  • Architecture and the Built Environment
  • Journalism and Media Studies

University of Johannesburg Tuition Fees

Program TypeAnnual Tuition (ZAR)
Undergraduate (Arts/Social Sciences)40 000 – 55 000
Undergraduate (Engineering/Health)54 000 – 80 000
Postgraduate Programs50 000 – 120 000
International Levy (2024)2 000 (SADC) / 17 000 (other)

A 40 % upfront payment is required, followed by installments at the end of April (30 %) and July (30 %).

University of Johannesburg Required Documents and Admission Requirements

Applicants must submit academic transcripts (matric certificate with APS ≥ 26–40), proof of subject-specific qualifications (especially in Maths or Science for STEM fields), and English proficiency at Level 4 or higher. Postgraduate applicants also require a personal statement and references.

University of Johannesburg Deadlines

ActivityDate
Application OpensApril
Early Application Deadline30 June
Final Application Deadline30 September
Registration Period16 January–7 February next year

University of Johannesburg Scholarships Offerings

  • National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for South African students
  • Merit-based bursaries covering 50–100 % tuition
  • Corporate bursaries (Eskom, Vodacom, Sasol)
  • Sports, cultural, and international student scholarships

University of Johannesburg Rankings

Ranking BodyPosition
QS World University Rankings 2025#312 globally
CWUR (2024)#4 in South Africa (#624 globally)
Times Higher Education / US News (2024)#4 in South Africa; ~#357 globally

University of Johannesburg Acceptance Rate

Approximately 17 % of applicants are ultimately accepted in a competitive process. Overall offer rate is about 68.9 %, with international acceptance estimated around 22–24 %.

University of Johannesburg Student Campus Life

UJ comprises four campuses—Auckland Park Kingsway (APK), Auckland Park Bunting Road (APB), Doornfontein, and Soweto—offering modern libraries, laboratories, gyms, pools, and a lively student union. Over 100 clubs and societies, along with extensive career and entrepreneurship support, enrich student life.
Accommodation Options:

  • On-campus residences housing around 6 000 students (high demand)
  • Accredited private student housing near campuses
  • Shuttle services connecting residences and campuses
    Safety in Johannesburg is a concern; secure housing and situational awareness are strongly recommended.

University of Johannesburg Cost of Living

Living expenses in Johannesburg vary depending on accommodation choice. On-campus residences cost more, while private shared rentals near campuses are more affordable. Students are advised to budget carefully.

Expense CategoryMonthly Cost (ZAR)
On-campus residence7 000 – 10 000
Private shared housing5 000 – 8 000
Food & personal expenses2 500 – 3 500
Transport (shuttle/public)1 000 – 1 500
Books and supplies500 – 1 000

University of Johannesburg Contact Informations

  • Phone Number: +27 11 559 4555
  • Email Address: onlineapp@uj.ac.za
  • Address: Kingsway Ave, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, 2092, South Africa

University of Johannesburg Online Application

Applicants should apply online via UJ’s admission portal. Submissions require academic transcripts, identification documents, proof of APS, and payment of the international levy if applicable. No application fee is charged for online applications; paper applications incur a R200 fee.