The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has officially welcomed its first-year students for the 2026 academic year, which begins next Monday. The welcoming comes against the backdrop of exceptionally high application numbers and a competitive admission process that saw only a small fraction of applicants secure a place.
According to the university, it received over 870,000 applications for the 2026 intake. This figure represents choices, as a single applicant can apply for two programs. In terms of actual individuals, UJ received applications from over 450,000 prospective students.
However, only just over 11,000 of these applicants were granted admission. Addressing the stark disparity, the Vice-Chancellor of UJ explained that the university is bound by strict enrollment plans agreed upon with the Department of Higher Education and Training.
“We have a certain quota that we can admit,” the Vice-Chancellor stated. “We cannot go over that agreed target with the department… based on our capacity, teaching capacity, laboratory space and so on.”
The selection process, he said, is based on a “fair and objective criteria” where applicants are ranked. The university admits students from the top of the list downward until its enrolment quota is filled.
The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the situation is “painful” and highlighted the university’s efforts to expand access through alternative pathways. A key initiative is UJ Digital, a non-subsidized online learning platform launched two years ago that is not subject to the same enrollment restrictions.
“Today we’ve got over 20,000 students registered there and over 100 programs,” he said, noting it is a “brick and mortar digital equivalent” of the university offering the same quality. He added that capacity on this platform is growing.
He further contextualized the application numbers, noting that many of the 450,000 applicants also applied to other institutions. “We have no guarantee that if somebody has applied at UJ, they’ll only focus on UJ,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor urged prospective students to broaden their horizons. “My advice… is that look, don’t only focus on… going to a university. There are other opportunities out there.” He emphasized the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, noting UJ is working in partnership with several to strengthen their offerings.
On student support, the Vice-Chancellor detailed the university’s comprehensive “UJ 101” first-year orientation program. This initiative is designed to help students settle in and includes psychological and counselling services, a large tutor and senior tutor program, library orientation, and extensive online support.
Specific faculties, like Law, have dedicated online tutor programs. The university also offers virtual programs to help students navigate its campuses. The success of UJ 101 has led to the creation of additional programs to support senior students in preparing for life after graduation.
As the new academic year commences, UJ is navigating the dual challenge of managing its physical capacity while investing in digital and partnership models to serve a growing demand for higher education in South Africa.