The programme currently available at UJ for 2026 late applications is the Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Senior and Further Education and Training (FET) Phase – Afrikaans, a teaching qualification aimed at preparing future educators to teach Afrikaans at high school level.
A rare opportunity for non-Maths applicants
For many learners, Mathematics remains a major barrier to accessing university programmes. UJ’s confirmation that this teaching qualification does not list Mathematics as a compulsory subject requirement has drawn significant attention, particularly from applicants whose strengths lie in languages and the humanities.
UJ has cautioned, however, that late applications are strictly subject to space availability and that this opportunity applies only to specific programmes where capacity still exists. Applicants are urged to apply as soon as possible, as late application windows are often short and close without notice once programmes are full.
About the Bachelor of Education in Senior and FET Phase (Afrikaans)
The BEd in Senior and FET Phase (Afrikaans) is a professional teaching degree designed to train educators to teach learners from Grade 7 to Grade 12, with a strong focus on Afrikaans as a subject. The programme is structured to combine academic study in education theory with subject-specific knowledge and practical teaching experience.
The qualification places emphasis on language development, teaching methodologies, curriculum interpretation, assessment practices, and classroom management within the South African schooling context.
Students are trained to understand both the linguistic and cultural dimensions of Afrikaans, while also developing the skills needed to teach diverse groups of learners.
UJ has indicated that the programme is particularly suited to students who have a solid background in Afrikaans and an interest in education, communication, and learner development.
Focus on teaching practice and classroom readiness
A key component of the BEd qualification is Work-Integrated Learning (WIL), which allows students to gain hands-on teaching experience in real school environments. Through supervised teaching practice, students learn how to plan lessons, manage classrooms, assess learner performance, and adapt teaching strategies to different learning needs.
The programme also addresses contemporary challenges in education, including inclusive education, learner support, ethics in teaching, and the use of technology in the classroom.
By the time they graduate, students are expected to be classroom-ready and capable of contributing meaningfully to the schooling system.
Career relevance and demand for teachers
The opening of late applications for this teaching qualification comes amid ongoing discussions about teacher shortages in certain subjects and language areas across South Africa. Qualified Afrikaans educators remain in demand, particularly in schools offering Afrikaans as a home language or first additional language at senior levels.
Graduates of the BEd in Senior and FET Phase (Afrikaans) are eligible to register with the South African Council for Educators (SACE), a requirement for employment in public and private schools. Once qualified, graduates may pursue teaching posts in secondary schools or continue with further studies in education and related fields.
Admission requirements still apply
While Mathematics is not listed as a compulsory subject for this programme, UJ has stressed that minimum admission requirements remain in place. Applicants must meet the required Admission Point Score (APS) and subject-specific requirements, particularly in Afrikaans and language-related subjects.
Prospective students are encouraged to carefully review the official programme requirements before applying, as meeting the minimum criteria does not automatically guarantee admission. Competition for available spaces remains high, especially during the late application phase.
How to apply for 2026 late applications
UJ manages late applications through its official late enquiry system. Applicants are required to submit one of the following:
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A UJ student number (for returning or previously registered applicants)
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A Grade 12 examination number
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A South African ID number or passport number
The system automatically checks whether the applicant qualifies for any programme that still has space, including the BEd in Senior and FET Phase (Afrikaans). Applicants who meet the requirements and where space is available may receive further instructions on how to proceed.
UJ has warned applicants against using unofficial agents or third-party services, emphasising that all applications must be made directly through the university’s official platforms.
Limited time to apply
Late applications are typically open for a limited and unspecified period, closing as soon as programmes reach capacity. UJ has therefore urged interested applicants to act quickly and to ensure that all information submitted is accurate and complete.
As access to university study remains highly competitive nationwide, the availability of a UJ course that does not require Mathematics as a compulsory subject offers a valuable pathway for students whose strengths lie in languages and teaching.
