UJ Higher Certificate Courses Open for 2026 Late Applications

University of Johannesburg recently announced that a selection of Higher Certificate programmes is open for 2026 late applications. This is a perfect opportunity for prospective students who have passed with a higher certificate in matric or anyone who do not meet minimum admission requirements of their desired study programme.

UJ’s Higher Certificate ocourses are designed to provide access to higher education while building foundational academic skills needed for further study.

What Are Higher Certificate Courses?

Higher Certificate programmes at UJ are entry-level qualifications registered at NQF Level 5. They are one year in duration and are aimed at students who do not meet the direct admission requirements for diplomas or degrees but demonstrate the potential to succeed at university level.

These programmes focus on developing core academic competencies such as reading, writing, numeracy, digital literacy and discipline-specific foundational knowledge.

Successful completion may allow students to articulate into selected diploma programmes at UJ, subject to meeting progression requirements.

Higher Certificate Programmes Available for 2026 Late Applications:

Higher Certificate in Business Management (Management)
Higher Certificate in Business Management (Risk Management)
Higher Certificate in Business Management (Project Management)

Admission Requirements Applicants Should Know

Minimum admission requirements for Higher Certificate programmes are generally more accessible than those for diplomas and degrees. In most cases, applicants need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with an admission rating that meets UJ’s Higher Certificate criteria. Some programmes may require specific subjects, such as English at a minimum achievement level.

UJ has emphasised that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee placement, as admission is subject to space availability and programme-specific criteria. Applicants are therefore encouraged to apply as soon as possible once late applications open.

How the Late Application Process Works

UJ’s late application process is managed through its online system. Prospective students are required to submit their personal details and academic information, after which the system checks whether they qualify for any programmes that still have available space.

Applicants who previously applied to UJ may be required to log in using their existing student number. New applicants must ensure that all supporting documents, including certified copies of ID and final school results, are uploaded correctly.

UJ has also warned applicants to rely only on official university platforms for application information, as misinformation often circulates during peak application periods.

Why Higher Certificates Matter

Higher Certificate programmes have become an important access route in South Africa’s higher education system. For many students, these qualifications provide an opportunity to transition from school to university in a supportive academic environment.

Education experts note that Higher Certificates can help students adjust to the demands of tertiary study while improving their chances of success in further qualifications. At institutions like UJ, they also play a role in widening access to higher education for students from diverse educational backgrounds.

Funding and Financial Considerations

Students applying for Higher Certificate programmes may qualify for funding, depending on their financial circumstances and the availability of support. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has historically funded selected Higher Certificate programmes at public universities, but applicants are advised to confirm current funding rules for 2026.

UJ has urged students to apply for funding as early as possible and to ensure that all required financial documentation is submitted correctly.

Important Advice to Applicants

UJ has cautioned that late applications are competitive, as spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis once minimum requirements are met. Applicants are encouraged to:

Apply only through official UJ platforms
Regularly check their application status
Respond promptly to any communication from the university
Consider Higher Certificates as a stepping stone rather than a setback

A Second Chance for 2026

As the 2026 academic year approaches, UJ’s decision to open late applications for Higher Certificate courses offers renewed hope to many aspiring students who still want to secure a place at a public university.

With limited spaces available, prospective applicants are urged to act quickly and to carefully review all admission requirements before submitting their applications. For many, a Higher Certificate at UJ could be the first step towards a successful university journey and a future qualification.