Are you a Grade 12 learner or recent matriculant worried about a low APS score? You’re not alone — and more importantly, you still have options. The University of Johannesburg (UJ) offers a range of courses that accept lower APS scores, making higher education more accessible for aspiring students who are determined to pursue their goals despite academic challenges.
Whether you’re passionate about design, engineering, sport, public relations, or business, UJ provides extended degrees and diplomas specifically designed to bridge academic gaps and build successful careers. Here’s everything you need to know about UJ’s low APS courses for 2026, how to qualify, and how to apply before the 30 September 2025 deadline.
About the University of Johannesburg (UJ)
The University of Johannesburg (UJ), based in one of Africa’s most vibrant cities, is a dynamic and inclusive institution that caters to over 50,000 students, including more than 3,000 international students from 80 countries. With its African roots and global outlook, UJ is committed to accessible education, innovation, and transformation.
UJ Application Closing Date for 2026
Application Deadline: 30 September 2025
Status: Online applications are open and ongoing.
2026 UJ Courses That Accept Low APS Scores
The following are undergraduate diploma and extended degree programmes available to students with low APS scores:
Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture
- Fashion Production Diploma
20 APS with Mathematics OR 21 APS with Mathematical Literacy - BA Design Courses (e.g., Industrial Design, Multimedia Design)
23 with Mathematics OR 24 with Mathematical Literacy - Diploma in Architecture
23 with Mathematics OR 24 with Technical Mathematics - Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture
18 with Mathematics, 19 with Maths Lit, OR 20 with Tech Maths
College of Business and Economics – Extended Degrees
- Accounting Extended Degree (4 years)
25 with Maths OR 28 with Maths Lit - Business Management Extended Degree
25 with Maths OR 28 with Maths Lit - Economics and Econometrics Extended Degree
25 with Maths OR 28 with Maths Lit - Finance Extended Degree
25 with Maths OR 28 with Maths Lit
Logistics and Management Diplomas
- Logistics Extended Diploma
19 with Maths OR 21 with Maths Lit - People Management Extended Diploma
19 with Maths OR 21 with Maths Lit - Small Business Management Extended Diploma
19 with Maths OR 21 with Maths Lit - Transportation Management Extended Diploma
19 with Maths OR 21 with Maths Lit
Engineering and the Built Environment
- Bachelor of Mine Surveying Degree (BEngTech)
23 APS - Management Services Diploma
19 with Maths OR 21 with Maths Lit - Operations Management Diploma
19 with Maths OR 21 with Maths Lit - Extraction Metallurgy Extended Degree
24 APS - Industrial Engineering Extended Degree
24 APS - Mechanical Engineering Extended Degree
24 APS - Physical Metallurgy Extended Degree
22 APS
Health and Sports Sciences
- Sport Management Degree
23 with Mathematics - Sport Management Diploma
18 with Maths OR 19 with Maths Lit
Humanities and Applied Sciences
- Extended Diploma in Public Relations
24 APS - Analytical Chemistry Extended Diploma
21 APS - Biotechnology Extended Diploma
21 APS - Food Technology Extended Diploma
21 APS
How to Apply
Click here to apply for 2026 UJ Low APS Courses: Apply Online via UJ Admissions
If you need help with the application process or want to learn more, visit the University of Johannesburg’s undergraduate admissions page linked above.