Registration season is officially here, and for thousands of prospective and returning students, the next few weeks will determine how smoothly the 2026 academic year begins. The University of Johannesburg (UJ)

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has confirmed its registration dates, processes and security measures for 2026, with a strong emphasis on online systems, fraud prevention and early action.

Whether you are a first-year entering university for the first time or a returning student continuing your studies, understanding the registration process is critical. Missing deadlines, falling for scams or failing to complete all steps can delay your studies or even cost you your place.

Here is a complete, student-friendly breakdown of UJ registration dates for 2026, how registration works, what to watch out for, and how to protect yourself during this high-pressure period.

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UJ Registration Dates for 2026

The University of Johannesburg has confirmed the following registration windows:

Senior and Returning Students:
12 January – 6 February 2026
First-Year Students:
13 January – 6 February 2026
(Dates may shift slightly depending on the release of Grade 12 results.)

All registrations will take place online and off-campus. UJ will not offer walk-in or on-campus registration facilities in 2026. Students must register using a smartphone, tablet or computer with internet access.

Registering early is strongly advised, as programmes can fill up within days and space is not guaranteed.

Who Needs to Register and When

First-Year Undergraduate Students

First-time students who have received provisional offers must still wait for final admission confirmation. UJ receives final Grade 12 results directly from the Department of Basic Education, meaning students do not need to submit their results unless specifically requested.

Admission confirmation will be sent via official UJ email and SMS. If you do not receive communication by 16 January 2026, you are advised to check your application status online.

Returning and Continuing Students

Returning students must also register during the January window, even if they are only completing outstanding modules. Failure to register by 6 February 2026 may result in losing your space.

Students who interrupted their studies or were previously excluded must first obtain permission from their Faculty or College before attempting registration.

How Online Registration Works at UJ in 2026

UJ has streamlined registration into a fully digital process designed to reduce queues, errors, and fraud.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Visit the official UJ registration portal.
Log in using your student number and uLink password.
New students must create a password and complete facial recognition verification.
Select and confirm your qualification and modules.
Make the required minimum payment.
Download and review your Proof of Registration.

Students are responsible for ensuring they are registered for a full academic load for the year. Registering for too few modules may delay graduation and affect funding eligibility.

Facial Recognition: A New Security Measure at UJ

In a major move to protect students, UJ has introduced facial recognition technology as part of the registration process.

All first-time users creating a uLink password will receive an SMS with a personalised verification link. This system confirms the student’s identity and helps prevent impersonation, identity fraud, and illegal registration activity.

This step is compulsory and forms part of UJ’s broader effort to safeguard student data and academic records.

Registration Fees and Minimum Payments

To complete registration, students must pay the following minimum amounts:

Day Students (non-residence): R5,950
Residence Students with acceptance letters: R9,850
Provisionally selected residence students: R5,950
International students: 40% of total fees upfront

Credit card payments reflect immediately on student accounts, while alternative payment methods may take longer and could delay registration confirmation. undergraduate_first_year_studen… undergraduate_returning_g_statu…

Student Cards and Campus Access

Once registered, students can collect their UJ student access cards from 14 January to 6 February 2026, between 08:00 and 15:30, at designated campus venues.

A valid ID and proof of registration are required. Replacement cards cost R150.

These cards are essential for campus access, library use, and examinations.

Scam Alert: Protect Yourself During Registration

UJ has issued strong warnings about registration-related scams targeting students and parents.

Fraudsters often pose as staff or student representatives, promising:

Guaranteed admission
Faster registration
Accommodation placement
Bursary assistance

They typically request payment upfront. Once money is paid, students are left with reversed transactions or financial losses.

Important to remember:

UJ is a cashless institution.
No staff member or student representative may ask for money to assist you.
All official communication comes through UJ platforms.

Report Suspicious Activity Immediately

Fraud Hotline: 0800 872 846
Email: uj@thehotline.co.za
Website: www.uj.ac.za/uj-ethics-hotline/

Changes, Cancellations, and Important Deadlines

Requests to cancel or change qualifications after 9 February 2026 must be submitted through the relevant Faculty or College.

Failure to formally cancel registration can result in full fee liability, even if you stop attending classes. Cancellation rules and refund structures are strictly enforced.

Lectures for the 2026 academic year will officially begin on Monday, 9 February 2026.

Why These Registration Details Matter

Registration is more than an administrative task. It determines:

Whether you can attend lectures
Whether your funding remains valid
Whether you graduate on time
Whether your academic record remains clean

In a province like Gauteng, where education drives opportunity and economic mobility, getting registration right is essential.

Register Early, Register Safely

UJ’s 2026 registration process reflects a university adapting to modern student needs while actively protecting its community from fraud and disruption.

Students are encouraged to:

Register as early as possible
Use only official UJ platforms
Never pay anyone for assistance
Verify all communication

If you are preparing to study at the University of Johannesburg in 2026, start your registration process early, stay alert to scams and use this guide to navigate registration with confidence. Share this article with friends, family, and fellow students so no one gets caught out during this critical period.