The University of Johannesburg publishes an APS and specific subject requirements for each programme. Requirements differ substantially between faculties, and UJ states them precisely on each programme page, including which subjects are not accepted.
UJ is unusually explicit about non-accepted subjects. Several programmes state directly that Mathematical Literacy, Technical Mathematics and Technical Science are not accepted, which removes the guesswork that applies at some institutions.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
Applications are generally assessed on the following.
- A National Senior Certificate with the endorsement matching the qualification
- The points score the institution calculates by its own published method
- Subject requirements specific to the programme
- English or the language of instruction at the level required
- Available places, since popular programmes are oversubscribed
- Additional selection for some programmes, such as portfolios or interviews
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
UJ offers degrees across faculties including the College of Business and Economics, Art Design and Architecture, Education, Engineering and the Built Environment, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law and Science.
Published examples show the range: the Bachelor of Nursing requires a minimum APS of 30 with English at level 5, Mathematics, Physical Sciences and Life Sciences each at level 4, while the LLB requires APS 31 with Mathematics or 32 with Mathematical Literacy. Programme-specific requirements are revised between intake years, so confirm them against the current prospectus for the year you are applying for rather than relying on figures published elsewhere.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Subject requirements are stated per programme with explicit levels. Where a programme requires Mathematics, UJ commonly states that Mathematical Literacy, Technical Mathematics and Technical Science are not accepted.
Some programmes accept Mathematical Literacy at a higher overall APS, which is the trade-off UJ applies on several law and humanities routes. Check the specific programme rather than assuming.
Documents and Application Requirements
Applications normally require the following.
- A certified copy of your identity document
- Your National Senior Certificate or latest statement of results
- Proof of the application fee, where one is charged
- Your final matric results, used to confirm any conditional offer
- A SAQA evaluation certificate, if you hold a foreign qualification
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Applications for the 2027 intake open on 1 April 2026 and close on 31 October 2026 for most programmes. Selection for competitive programmes includes interviews or additional assessment.
UJ programmes are heavily subscribed and meeting the published APS does not secure a place. Apply early and to more than one institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does UJ accept Mathematical Literacy?
It depends on the programme. Some accept it at a higher APS; others state explicitly that it is not accepted.
When do UJ applications open and close?
For the 2027 intake, applications open on 1 April 2026 and close on 31 October 2026 for most programmes.
What APS do I need?
It is published per programme. Examples range from 30 for the Bachelor of Nursing to 31 or 32 for law routes.
Are there interviews?
Some programmes, including nursing, include a structured interview as part of selection.
Source: University of Johannesburg official programme pages, checked August 2026. Confirm requirements on the specific UJ programme page. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.