Does UJ accept international students?

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is one of South Africa’s leading institutions, welcoming a diverse student body from around the globe. If you’re considering applying to UJ as an international student, this blog post will guide you through the essential requirements, fees, and processes involved.

Admission Requirements for International Students

Yes, UJ does accept international students! However, there are specific guidelines and documentation you need to provide as part of your application. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements:

1. Completed Application Form

  • You must submit a completed application form along with supporting documents.
  • A non-refundable application fee of R200.00 is required for hardcopy applications; however, online applications are free.
  • Supporting documents can be uploaded through the application platform or emailed to intappsdocs@listsrv.uj.ac.za.

2. Educational Documents

  • If you are currently studying in South Africa towards a Grade 12 qualification, you may be asked to provide certified copies of your final Grade 11 results.
  • Final school-leaving results must be submitted for applicants who have completed their high school education.

3. Valid Identification

  • A valid passport or identity document is essential.

4. English Proficiency

  • Proof of English proficiency is required if English was not the medium of instruction. UJ prefers an IELTS score of 7 or a TOEFL score between 105–120 for postgraduate programs.
  • Alternatively, you can opt for the UJ English Language Programme Test (UJELP), where you must achieve an overall score of 7.

5. Medical Aid and Financial Proof

  • Accepted international students must provide proof of available funds for the full tuition fee of the academic year and proof of medical aid administered in South Africa. This is a prerequisite for obtaining a study visa.

Accommodation at UJ

If you require on-campus accommodation, it is crucial to submit a completed residence application form along with your academic application. Ensure to include the required residence deposit as stated in the Residence Application Form.

Tuition Fees and Payment Structure

Tuition fees for international students may vary, and it’s essential to stay updated, as they generally increase between 5% and 10% each year. As an international student, you are required to pay tuition and residence fees in installments:

  • 40% of tuition and residence fees must be paid before or at registration.
  • 30% must be paid by 30 April.
  • The final 30% is due by 31 July.

International Levy

In addition to tuition fees, international students must also pay an international levy:

  • R2,000 for SADC and other African countries.
  • R17,000 for other countries.
  • No levy for asylum seekers, refugees, permanent residents, or exchange students.

Payment Methods

Payments can be made through international bank transfers to the following account:

  • Account Name: University of Johannesburg
  • Bank: First National Bank
  • Account Number: 626 158 73199
  • Branch Code: 632005
  • SWIFT Code: FIRNZAJJ
  • Reference: Your Student Number

Contact Information for International Students

For more information or assistance, you can reach out to the following contacts at UJ:

  • Mrs. Mampou Ngqumshe – Auckland Park Kingsway Campus: +27 11 559 4517 | mampoum@uj.ac.za
  • Mr. Thabang Mothebe – Doornfontein Campus: +27 11 559 6510 | thabangm@uj.ac.za
  • Ms. Palesa Makwela – Auckland Park Bunting Road Campus: +27 11 559 1027 | pmakwela@uj.ac.za
  • Soweto Campus: +27 11 559 5014
  • Ms. Shantelle Sass – Division for Internationalisation: +27 11 559 7780 | ssass@uj.ac.za

Conclusion

In summary, the University of Johannesburg is a welcoming institution for international students, offering a vibrant environment for academic growth. By meeting the outlined requirements and staying informed about fees and processes, you can embark on your educational journey at UJ. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact the university’s international office or visit their website for more details.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.