University of Johannesburg Scholarships and Bursaries 2028: How to Apply

University of Johannesburg Scholarships and Bursaries for 2028 Application: How to Apply

Students planning to study at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in 2028 can explore several scholarship and bursary opportunities to help pay for their university education. These funding opportunities are intended to support students with strong academic results, those who need financial assistance, postgraduate researchers and students who meet specific scholarship conditions. Continue to read more about University of Johannesburg Scholarships and Bursaries.

The cost of university education can be a major challenge for many students. Tuition fees, registration costs, accommodation, textbooks, meals and other study expenses can make it difficult for students to pursue higher education without financial support. Fortunately, the University of Johannesburg provides access to different forms of financial assistance through internal bursaries, merit awards, external bursaries, government funding and postgraduate scholarships.

Whether you are a prospective first-year student, a returning undergraduate, an honours student, a master’s candidate or a doctoral researcher, understanding the available funding options can help you plan your studies.

This guide explains the University of Johannesburg scholarships and bursaries for 2028, including the available funding categories, eligibility considerations, application procedures, supporting documents and useful tips for securing financial assistance.

Check out: University of Johannesburg Fees

About University of Johannesburg Scholarships and Bursaries

The University of Johannesburg offers different financial assistance opportunities to help eligible students access higher education and continue their academic programmes.

According to the university’s official Student Finance information, its funding opportunities include:

These opportunities do not all operate in the same way. Some awards are based on academic achievement, others consider financial need, and certain scholarships are restricted to particular faculties, qualifications or student categories.

The university also provides information about external funding opportunities from companies, government departments, foundations and other organisations.

1. UJ Undergraduate Merit Bursaries

The UJ undergraduate merit bursary is intended to reward students who achieve strong academic results.

According to UJ’s published student finance information, merit bursaries are awarded based on academic performance. First-year and returning students may be assessed under different merit bursary rules.

For prospective first-year students, matric results are an important consideration. Returning students are generally assessed using their university academic performance.

The university’s historical bursary guidance explains that academic merit assessments can consider the six best matric subjects, excluding Life Orientation. For continuing students, university examination results are used to assess academic performance.

Who can qualify?

Depending on the applicable funding rules, eligible applicants may include:

How to apply for a UJ merit bursary

An important advantage of UJ’s merit bursary system is that eligible registered students may be assessed automatically under the applicable merit rules. This means that students should not assume they need to submit a separate application for every merit award.

However, applicants should confirm the assessment procedure and conditions for the 2028 academic year.

Official information: UJ Merit Bursaries and Student Finance.

2. UJ Orange Carpet Scholarship and Rewards Programme

The Orange Carpet programme is one of the University of Johannesburg’s initiatives for recognising academically outstanding prospective undergraduate students.

The programme aims to attract high-achieving learners by offering early conditional admission opportunities and other benefits, subject to the university’s requirements.

According to UJ’s published Orange Carpet information, learners generally need an Admission Point Score (APS) of at least 37, together with a Level 6 or higher in their subjects, to qualify for the advertised benefits. Programme-specific subject requirements must also be satisfied.

The precise requirements should be checked against the applicable admission and Orange Carpet rules for the year of application.

Orange Carpet eligibility considerations

Prospective applicants should pay attention to:

The Orange Carpet initiative is particularly worth investigating if you are a high-achieving learner preparing to enter university for the first time.

How to apply: Submit your undergraduate application through UJ’s official application system and follow the Orange Carpet instructions published for the relevant admission year.

Read more: UJ Orange Carpet and International Student Financial Information.

3. UJ Leadership Bursary

The University of Johannesburg also recognises students who demonstrate leadership while attending secondary school.

The leadership bursary is intended for first-year students who previously held specified leadership positions in their schools.

According to UJ’s published funding information, qualifying positions include:

The university’s published Fund Bursaries Hub lists a once-off leadership award of R1,650, subject to the applicable requirements.

Leadership bursary requirements

Applicants may be required to provide:

1. A letter from their former school confirming their leadership position.

2. A signature and official stamp from the school or college principal.

3. Proof of registration at UJ.

4. Any additional documents requested by the bursary office.

The award amount and application process should be verified for 2028 because previous-year funding amounts are not guaranteed to remain unchanged.

Official information: UJ Fund Bursaries Hub.

4. UJ Culture and Sports Bursaries

Students with outstanding sporting or cultural achievements may also investigate funding opportunities through UJ.

The university has historically offered bursaries to recognise students who demonstrate talent and achievement in sport and cultural activities.

Sports bursaries

UJ’s published financial information indicates that sports bursaries are available to students with achievements at provincial level or higher.

Students interested in sports funding should contact the UJ Sports Bureau to obtain the relevant application information.

Potential applicants should prepare evidence of their achievements, which may include:

• Sporting certificates.

• Competition results.

• Provincial or national selection letters.

• Proof of participation in recognised sporting events.

• Additional documentation requested by the Sports Bureau.

Cultural bursaries

Cultural bursaries are intended for students involved in UJ Arts and Culture groups.

Students who participate in recognised university cultural activities should contact the relevant department to establish whether funding is available and what selection requirements apply.

These awards are particularly relevant to students with demonstrated ability in recognised cultural activities.

Read more: UJ Financial Information.

5. UJ Honours Degree and Postgraduate Diploma Bursaries

The University of Johannesburg provides postgraduate funding opportunities for eligible students pursuing honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas.

These bursaries can help students who want to continue their education after completing an undergraduate qualification.

UJ’s published faculty funding information shows that honours and postgraduate diploma bursaries may be restricted to particular departments, qualifications and full-time students.

For example, previous UJ funding arrangements have required applicants to have been accepted or conditionally accepted into an eligible honours or postgraduate diploma programme.

Some bursaries also require students to register before their applications can be processed.

Who can apply?

Depending on the funding call, applicants may need to:

• Hold an appropriate undergraduate qualification.

• Have been accepted into an eligible honours or postgraduate diploma programme.

• Register as a full-time student where required.

• Meet the relevant academic requirements.

• Submit the prescribed bursary application form.

• Satisfy any faculty-specific conditions.

Important conditions

Not every honours student automatically qualifies for funding.

UJ’s previous funding announcements have explained that bursaries depend on available budgets and the number of eligible applicants. Some awards also exclude particular programmes.

For example, the university’s published 2026 Education Faculty funding information excluded PGCE students from its specified honours and postgraduate diploma bursary.

Students applying for 2028 should therefore check the exact qualification list rather than assuming that every postgraduate diploma or honours programme is covered.

Official information: UJ Internal and External Postgraduate Funding.

6. UJ Master’s Degree Scholarships and Bursaries

Master’s students at the University of Johannesburg can investigate several internal and external postgraduate funding opportunities.

These include university research funding, supervisor-linked bursaries and scholarships provided by external organisations.

According to UJ’s Postgraduate Funding Management information, master’s funding opportunities include:

• Global Excellence Stature funding.

• University Research Committee (URC) funding.

• URC International funding.

• Supervisor-Linked Bursaries (SLB).

• Special URC funding.

• National Research Foundation (NRF) funding.

• Other external research scholarships.

The availability of each award depends on the funding call, research area, academic performance and eligibility conditions.

Master’s bursary eligibility

Potential applicants should prepare to provide:

• Proof of acceptance into a master’s programme.

• Academic transcripts.

• Evidence of previous qualifications.

• A research proposal, where required.

• Details of the proposed research area.

• Supervisor information.

• Other documents specified in the funding announcement.

Some postgraduate awards require students to work with an approved supervisor or conduct research in a particular field.

Important: UJ does not guarantee postgraduate funding simply because a student has been accepted into a master’s programme. Funding is competitive and subject to available resources.

More information: UJ Master’s Funding.

7. UJ Doctoral Scholarships and Bursaries

Doctoral students can also explore scholarships and research funding administered through UJ’s Postgraduate School.

Doctoral funding supports eligible students undertaking advanced research and completing PhD qualifications.

UJ identifies several funding sources for doctoral students, including:

• University Research Committee funding.

• UJ-Commonwealth funding.

• URC International funding.

• Supervisor-Linked Bursaries.

• Special URC funding.

• National Research Foundation funding.

• Department of Science and Innovation funding.

• Council for Scientific and Industrial Research funding.

• Other external scholarship opportunities.

Some external funding opportunities are available only when a specific application call is announced.

Requirements for doctoral funding

Although the conditions differ between funding programmes, applicants may need:

1. Admission to an eligible doctoral programme.

2. A recognised master’s qualification or an approved equivalent.

3. A suitable research proposal.

4. An approved research supervisor.

5. Strong previous academic performance.

6. Satisfactory research progress for continuing students.

7. Compliance with the funder’s terms and conditions.

Some funding opportunities also have restrictions on the number of years for which a student can receive support.

Students should consult the relevant doctoral funding announcement before applying.

Official information: UJ Doctoral Funding.

8. National Research Foundation (NRF) Scholarships at UJ

The National Research Foundation (NRF) is an important source of postgraduate research funding in South Africa.

UJ students undertaking eligible honours, master’s and doctoral studies can investigate NRF scholarship opportunities.

NRF funding is intended to support postgraduate research and the development of research skills in South Africa.

Depending on the particular funding programme, scholarships may support:

• Honours studies.

• Master’s research.

• Doctoral research.

• Specific research fields.

• Approved research projects.

• Eligible postgraduate candidates from particular backgrounds.

The NRF also publishes eligibility requirements and funding conditions that applicants must satisfy.

How to apply for NRF funding

The application process depends on the specific NRF funding call.

Generally, applicants should:

1. Identify an available NRF scholarship.

2. Read the eligibility criteria.

3. Confirm that their UJ qualification and research area qualify.

4. Prepare the required academic documents.

5. Obtain supervisor support where required.

6. Submit the application through the designated application system.

7. Monitor communication about the funding decision.

NRF opportunities should not be confused with automatic UJ bursaries. They have their own application procedures and selection requirements.

Official information: UJ Postgraduate Funding Opportunities.

9. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Funding at UJ

South African government funding (How to Apply for NSFAS)

NSFAS provides financial support to qualifying students who cannot afford higher education and meet the scheme’s eligibility requirements.

Depending on the applicable funding rules, support can include:

• Tuition fees.

• Accommodation support.

• Learning materials.

• Meal allowances.

• Personal care allowances.

• Other approved student allowances.

The actual funding package depends on the applicable NSFAS rules, student circumstances and approved funding arrangements.

Who qualifies for NSFAS?

Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements established by NSFAS. These generally include financial eligibility, citizenship or qualifying residency status, academic and registration requirements, and other conditions specified by the scheme.

Students should check the latest NSFAS eligibility rules before applying.

How to apply for NSFAS funding for 2028

The application process is completed through the official NSFAS online platform.

1. Visit the official NSFAS website.

2. Create a myNSFAS account or sign in to an existing account.

3. Complete the application form.

4. Provide the requested personal and household information.

5. Upload the supporting documents requested.

6. Submit the application.

7. Monitor your application status through myNSFAS.

Students should apply within the official application period.

Important: NSFAS funding is separate from UJ’s internal merit bursaries. Receiving admission to UJ does not automatically mean that you have been approved for NSFAS funding.

For 2028 applicants, check the official NSFAS website for the opening date, closing date and eligibility requirements when the application cycle is announced.

Official website: National Student Financial Aid Scheme.

10. UJ External Bursaries and Scholarships

Apart from scholarships provided directly by the university, students can apply for external bursaries offered by companies, government departments, charitable organisations, foundations and other funding institutions.

External bursaries can be particularly useful for students who do not qualify for certain internal UJ awards.

The university encourages students to explore external bursaries that match their academic achievements, financial circumstances and intended careers.

Examples of external funding opportunities listed on UJ’s bursary information page include:

These are examples of opportunities appearing on UJ’s published external bursary information, not confirmation that every programme will accept applications for 2028.

Each external bursary has its own eligibility requirements, application procedure and closing date.

Some may consider financial need, while others prioritise academic performance, a particular qualification or career field.

Where can you find external bursaries?

Visit the official UJ External Bursaries page.

The page is regularly used to communicate available opportunities and application information.

11. UJ Scholarships and Bursaries for International Students

International students interested in studying at the University of Johannesburg can also investigate scholarship opportunities.

UJ’s Division for Global Engagement provides information about financial assistance for international students through scholarship programmes, fundraising initiatives and partnerships with external organisations.

Some of the opportunities identified by the university include:

International Student Funding

UJ has published international student funding opportunities for undergraduate students.

For example, its published 2027 international funding call specifies academic performance conditions, including passing at least 50% of modules with distinctions and passing the remaining modules with at least 50%.

The same announcement requires outstanding university fees to be settled before an application can be considered. It also limits the period of undergraduate funding under that particular scheme.

These are conditions of the published funding call and should not automatically be assumed to apply to the 2028 funding cycle.

Documents international students may need

International applicants should prepare the following documents where requested:

International students should also check whether a scholarship is open to applicants from their country.

For further information, visit the UJ Scholarship Opportunities page.

12. UJ SRC Trust Fund and Student Financial Assistance

Students experiencing financial difficulties may also investigate assistance through the University of Johannesburg’s SRC Trust Fund.

The fund is among the financial assistance options identified by UJ for students who need additional support.

Students should contact the relevant student finance office or SRC representatives to establish:

Whether applications are currently open.

• Which students qualify.
• What financial difficulties are covered.
• Which supporting documents are required.
• Whether assistance is available for tuition, meals or other student needs.

Availability and funding conditions should be confirmed directly with the university.

This is another option worth investigating if you are already registered at UJ and are experiencing financial difficulties.

How to Apply for University of Johannesburg Scholarships and Bursaries for 2028

Students interested in UJ scholarships and bursaries should understand that there is no single application process for every funding opportunity.

Some awards are automatically assessed, some require separate applications, and others are administered by external organisations.

Here is a practical guide to getting started.

Step 1: Apply for admission to UJ

If you are a prospective first-year student, begin by applying for your chosen qualification at the University of Johannesburg.

Visit the official UJ admissions website to access application information.

Remember that admission to the university and approval for financial assistance are two separate processes.

Step 2: Identify suitable funding opportunities

Explore the different funding categories available to you.

For example:

• First-year students can investigate Orange Carpet, leadership awards and applicable merit bursaries.

• Returning students can investigate undergraduate merit bursaries and UJenius.

• Honours students can investigate postgraduate diploma and honours funding.

• Master’s students can explore internal and external research scholarships.

• Doctoral students can investigate NRF and other postgraduate research funding.

• International students can explore the Division for Global Engagement’s scholarship opportunities.

Step 3: Check the eligibility requirements

Read the conditions of each bursary carefully.

Pay attention to academic performance, financial need, citizenship, qualification level, field of study and registration status.

Do not apply based only on the name of a scholarship. Confirm that your qualification and circumstances meet the actual requirements.

Step 4: Prepare your supporting documents

Gather your academic records, identification documents and other supporting information.

Some scholarships require additional documents, such as research proposals, supervisor endorsements or proof of leadership.

Step 5: Complete the application

Use the official UJ funding portal or the application platform specified by the external funding provider.

Complete all required sections and upload the correct documents.

Step 6: Submit before the closing date

Do not wait until the final day.

Some bursaries have limited budgets and may stop accepting applications once the available funding has been allocated.

Step 7: Monitor your application

Check your email and the relevant application portal regularly.

Respond promptly if the university or funding provider requests additional information.

Keep copies of your application, supporting documents and submission confirmation.

Documents Required for UJ Scholarships and Bursaries

The documents required depend on the type of bursary and the applicant’s circumstances.

However, the following documents are commonly requested across different funding opportunities.

This is a general preparation checklist, not a universal document list. Always follow the specific bursary application instructions.

Important Things to Know Before Applying for UJ Bursaries in 2028

Before submitting an application, there are several issues you should understand.

1. Not every bursary covers all university expenses.

Some awards contribute towards tuition fees only, while others may provide additional support. Check exactly what the funding covers.

2. Funding is not guaranteed.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically mean that you will receive a scholarship.

3. Some awards are automatically allocated.

UJ’s merit bursaries may be assessed automatically under the applicable rules. Other bursaries require separate applications.

4. External bursaries have independent deadlines.

Do not assume that all bursary applications open and close at the same time as UJ admission applications.

5. Multiple bursaries may not be permitted.

UJ’s published external bursary guidance explains that its bursary policy restricts students from receiving multiple bursary awards. Students should disclose existing funding and check the applicable rules before accepting another award.

6. Postgraduate funding is often competitive.

Master’s and doctoral scholarships may depend on research performance, supervisor support, research areas and available funding.

7. Beware of scholarship scams.

Only submit applications through official university or funding-provider platforms. Do not pay individuals who promise guaranteed scholarships or admission.

University of Johannesburg Student Finance Contact Details

If you have questions about scholarships, bursaries, application procedures or funding eligibility, contact the university’s Student Finance Division.

UJ publishes different contact details for its campuses and funding categories.

The following are useful general contacts listed on its official Student Finance contact page.

For the latest email addresses and campus-specific contacts, visit the UJ Student Finance Contact Details page.

You can also visit the official University of Johannesburg website for additional information.

Frequently Asked Questions About University of Johannesburg Scholarships and Bursaries for 2028

1. Does the University of Johannesburg offer scholarships and bursaries?

Yes. UJ offers several financial assistance opportunities, including internal merit bursaries, postgraduate funding, honours bursaries, leadership awards and other scholarships. Students can also investigate external bursaries and NSFAS funding.

2. How can I apply for UJ bursaries for 2028?

Start by identifying the bursary that matches your qualification and circumstances. Check its eligibility requirements, prepare the required documents and submit your application through the official UJ funding portal or the relevant funding provider.

3. Does UJ offer full scholarships?

UJ has different funding opportunities, but the amount and expenses covered depend on the particular award. Some bursaries may cover tuition-related costs, while other scholarships may provide broader financial support. Check the individual award conditions before applying.

4. Can first-year students apply for UJ scholarships?

Yes. First-year students can investigate opportunities such as the Orange Carpet programme, leadership awards, applicable undergraduate merit bursaries and external scholarships.

5. Does UJ offer bursaries to returning students?

Yes. Returning undergraduate students can be considered for merit bursaries and other funding opportunities, subject to academic performance, registration status and the relevant award conditions.

6. Does UJ offer postgraduate scholarships?

Yes. UJ provides postgraduate funding opportunities for eligible honours, master’s and doctoral students. Funding sources include internal university awards, NRF scholarships and external research funding.

7. Can international students apply for UJ scholarships?

Yes. UJ has scholarship opportunities for international students through its Division for Global Engagement. Eligibility depends on the particular scholarship, country of origin, academic performance and available funding.

8. Does UJ offer sports bursaries?

Yes. UJ has published sports bursary opportunities for students with achievements at provincial level or higher. Applicants should contact the UJ Sports Bureau for current requirements.

9. Can I receive NSFAS funding while studying at UJ?

Yes. Eligible students registered at UJ can apply for NSFAS funding, subject to the scheme’s requirements and funding decisions.

10. When will UJ 2028 bursary applications open?

The opening dates depend on the specific scholarship or bursary. UJ has not confirmed a universal 2028 bursary application timetable in the information used for this guide. Prospective students should monitor the official Student Finance and funding pages for announcements.

11. Can I apply for more than one UJ bursary?

UJ’s published bursary policy restricts multiple bursary awards. Applicants should disclose other funding and confirm whether their proposed combination of awards is permitted before accepting additional assistance.

12. Where can I find the official UJ bursary application forms?

Visit the UJ Bursaries website. The university publishes information about available internal and external funding opportunities, including application forms where applicable.

Final Thoughts on University of Johannesburg Scholarships and Bursaries for 2028

The University of Johannesburg provides several opportunities for students who need financial assistance to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications.

Whether you are a new matriculant, a returning undergraduate, an honours student, a master’s candidate or a doctoral researcher, there are different funding categories worth exploring.

The most useful starting points are the UJ undergraduate merit bursaries, Orange Carpet programme, leadership awards, postgraduate scholarships, NRF funding, external bursaries and NSFAS.

However, applicants should remember that each scholarship has its own eligibility requirements, application procedure and funding conditions. Some awards are automatically assessed, while others require a separate application.

For students preparing for the 2028 academic year, the best approach is to start researching funding opportunities early, maintain strong academic results, prepare supporting documents and regularly check official university announcements.