Low-income student support

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is dedicated to supporting students from low-income backgrounds by offering a range of services designed to alleviate financial burdens and promote academic success. These services encompass financial aid, accommodation assistance, counselling, and support for students with disabilities.

Financial Aid

UJ collaborates with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), a South African government initiative that provides financial assistance to eligible students from low-income families. NSFAS funding covers tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, and living allowances, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to higher education. Prospective and current students can apply for NSFAS support through UJ’s Student Finance portal, which offers comprehensive guidance on the application process and necessary requirements.

In addition to NSFAS, UJ offers various bursaries and scholarships aimed at academically deserving students who require financial support. These include merit-based awards and faculty-specific bursaries, which are designed to recognise academic excellence and provide financial relief. Information about these opportunities is available on the Student Finance section of UJ’s website.

Accommodation Assistance

Recognising the importance of secure and affordable housing, UJ provides on-campus residences and collaborates with accredited privately owned student accommodation (POSA) providers. The university’s Student Accommodation and Residence Life (SARL) department manages approximately 7,494 beds within university-owned residences and oversees about 26,000 beds through POSA. For students residing in POSA facilities located more than 2 kilometres from campus, transportation services are provided to ensure safe and convenient access to university premises. 

Counselling and Mental Health Support

UJ’s Centre for Psychological Services and Career Development (PsyCaD) offers a range of counselling and mental health services to support students’ well-being. These services include individual counselling sessions, crisis intervention, and various online resources accessible to all students. PsyCaD’s initiatives aim to address personal and academic challenges, contributing to a supportive environment that fosters student success.

Support for Students with Disabilities

UJ is committed to inclusivity and provides dedicated support for students with disabilities. Operating within PsyCaD, the Disability Services unit offers assistance such as academic accommodations, advice, and facilitation of necessary resources. Additionally, NSFAS provides bursaries specifically tailored for students with disabilities, covering expenses like tuition, accommodation, and assistive devices. This comprehensive support system ensures that students with disabilities have equitable access to educational opportunities. citeturn0search16

Through these multifaceted support structures, the University of Johannesburg demonstrates its commitment to empowering students from low-income backgrounds, enabling them to overcome financial and personal challenges and successfully complete their university education.