University of Johannesburg (UJ) Bursaries South Africa For 2026. The University of Johannesburg bursaries for the 2026 academic year present a valuable opportunity for South African students to access quality education without the heavy burden of financial constraints. Established in 2005 through the merger of Rand Afrikaans University (RAU), Vista University’s Soweto and East Rand campuses, and Technikon Witwatersrand (TWR), the University of Johannesburg (UJ) has become a dynamic institution offering inclusive and accessible education.
UJ not only provides academic excellence but also supports deserving students through a range of bursary programmes tailored to both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Whether you’re a prospective student preparing for your first year or a current postgraduate researcher, understanding the available UJ bursary opportunities 2026 is essential to securing your educational future.
Bursary Opportunities Available at UJ for 2026
UJ offers an extensive list of internal and external bursaries to help students fund their studies. These include merit-based awards, field-specific bursaries, postgraduate scholarships, and national funding support. Below is an in-depth overview of some prominent bursary options.
UJ-CANSA Bursary
The UJ-CANSA Bursary is a joint initiative between the University of Johannesburg and the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). It supports students conducting research in cancer-related fields at the Master’s or Doctoral level.
Who Can Apply?
- South African citizens
- Postgraduate students (Master’s or Doctoral level) at UJ
- Studying in cancer-related disciplines:
- Animal studies and zoology (e.g., elephant bio-detection)
- Health sciences (cancer prevention and treatment)
- Environmental carcinogens (like pollution)
- Socio-psychological impacts
- NPO marketing and communication strategies
- Business management for non-profit organisations
Bursary Value
| Study Level | Bursary Amount |
|---|---|
| Master’s | R20,000 |
| Doctoral | R30,000 |
How to Apply: Application forms are available for download at www.uj.ac.za during the annual call period. Applicants must submit a complete form with reference reports.
Closing Date: Second week of May in the year of study.
Contact:
Ms. Mbatha
011 559 4016
[email protected]
Types of University of Johannesburg Bursaries
UJ’s bursary offering is structured into different categories to suit the needs of diverse student groups. Let’s explore these categories in detail.
1. Merit Bursaries
These bursaries are based on academic excellence and are usually awarded automatically to top-performing students.
Eligibility Criteria:
- High M-score or academic performance in matric or previous study year.
- Enrolled full-time at UJ in undergraduate or postgraduate programmes.
2. Internal UJ Bursaries
The University offers several internal financial aid programmes, including:
- Undergraduate Merit Bursaries
- Leadership Awards
- Multiple Degrees Funding
- Master & Doctoral (M&D) Merit Bursaries
These internal bursaries are administered by the UJ Student Finance Office. Application processes vary depending on the bursary type.
3. NSFAS Funding
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides bursaries and loans to academically deserving students who cannot afford university fees.
Eligibility:
- South African citizenship
- Financial need (household income below R350,000)
- Enrolment in a full-time undergraduate degree at a public university
How to Apply:
Applications are made via the official NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za
4. Glencore Coal SA Bursaries
Glencore sponsors students pursuing degrees in high-demand engineering fields:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
Regular updates regarding application openings are posted on their Instagram page and other social media platforms.
5. Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP)
ISFAP assists financially disadvantaged students from working-class families. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, study materials, and even stipends.
Note: Applications for 2025 are closed. Future applicants should monitor the University of Pretoria’s website and ISFAP announcements for upcoming dates.
6. Field-Specific UJ Bursaries
UJ also awards bursaries to students pursuing studies in priority fields such as:
| Field of Study | Bursary Available |
|---|---|
| Accounting | Yes |
| Arts & Humanities | Yes |
| Commerce | Yes |
| Computer Science | Yes |
| Construction Management | Yes |
| Education | Yes |
| Engineering | Yes |
Applicants should contact faculty offices for bursary availability in specific departments.
Postgraduate Funding at UJ
UJ offers a robust framework of postgraduate scholarships and bursaries, especially for MEd and PhD candidates.
National Research Foundation (NRF)
- Available to South African postgraduates in research-intensive programmes.
- Offers full funding, including tuition, accommodation, and research costs.
- Competitive and subject to academic performance and research alignment.
UJ Department of Education Bursaries
- Special funding for Community, Adult and Worker Education fields.
- Closely linked to South African educational transformation goals.
How to Apply for UJ Bursaries
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit the UJ Website:
Navigate to the Student Finance section at www.uj.ac.za. - Download the Application Form:
Depending on the bursary, download the form and gather supporting documentation like reference letters or academic transcripts. - Apply Online or via Email:
Some bursaries, such as NSFAS and ISFAP, require online applications, while others accept submissions by email. - Track Your Application:
Always keep a record of your submissions and check for status updates or emails from the bursary office.
UJ Bursary Application Deadlines 2026
It’s essential to keep track of all the important deadlines for UJ bursary applications and external funding. Missing deadlines can cost you a year of opportunity.
| Bursary/Funding Scheme | Deadline |
|---|---|
| General UJ Bursaries | October 31, 2025 |
| Application Opening Date | April 1, 2025 |
| Nedbank Bursary | August 31, 2025 |
| South African Actuaries Development Programme (SAADP) | August 31, 2025 |
| WBHO Bursary | July 31, 2025 |
| MEd & PhD Chair Scholarships (Community, Adult & Worker Ed) | June 27, 2025 |
FAQs About UJ bursary
What is the deadline for UJ bursary applications for 2026?
The general deadline for most UJ bursary applications is October 31, 2025. However, external bursaries such as Nedbank, SAADP, and WBHO may have earlier closing dates. Always check individual listings for specific deadlines.
Can I apply for both NSFAS and UJ internal bursaries?
Yes, you can. NSFAS is a government-run financial aid programme, while UJ internal bursaries are administered by the university. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each, you may apply for both.
Where can I find updates on UJ bursaries?
You can regularly check the UJ Student Finance website or contact the bursary office via phone or email. Some bursaries, like Glencore and ISFAP, also announce openings through their social media platforms.
Final Thoughts
Pursuing higher education at the University of Johannesburg becomes significantly more accessible through the wide variety of UJ bursaries available for 2026. From internal merit awards and field-specific funds to national financial aid like NSFAS and ISFAP, students have ample opportunity to reduce or eliminate their financial barriers.
