A fascinating and vibrant place to explore, Johannesburg is amongst the most popular cities for studying in Africa.

A University of Johannesburg accommodation from Student.com will make it easier to make the most of your stay in the largest city of South Africa. We offer off-campus student accommodation near UJ that will place you in the heart of some of the city’s most vibrant areas. Grab lunch at nearby popular restaurants that serve up everything from burgers to spicy chicken, or explore some of the best contemporary art collections at the Johannesburg Art Gallery.

Our student residence listings offer fully equipped and affordable shared or private rooms. If you need more information about our UJ student accommodation, call us, or text us through our website’s live chat or on WhatsApp. Our friendly booking consultants are always available to help you find the ideal student home for you!

Where is the University of Johannesburg located? 

The University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) four campuses (Auckland Park Kingsway, Auckland Park Bunting Road, Doornfontein, and Soweto) are all in the Johannesburg metropolitan area.

With its rich history, diverse cultures, and many attractions, it is one of the most dynamic and vibrant urban areas in South Africa. Filled with tall skyscrapers, bustling sidewalks, and plenty of shopping and dining options, the metropolitan area’s bustling downtown district is one of its main highlights.

The area is home to some of the most famous buildings in South Africa, including one of the tallest buildings in Africa, the Carlton Centre. Take a ride to the top of the 50-storey skyscraper and shopping centre and enjoy breath-taking views of the city.

Another must-see attraction in the metropolitan area is the Apartheid Museum. Filled with powerful exhibits and interactive displays, it is one of the best ways to learn about South Africa’s history, from the beginnings of apartheid to the present day.

The dynamic urban area is also home to a wide range of cultural and nature attractions.

Studying at UJ 

With its renowned commitment to academic excellence and research impact, world-class facilities, and commitment to sustainability and social justice, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a leading institution in South Africa and a top choice for students from around the world.

Known for its innovative academic programs, world-class research, and commitment to community engagement, the institution continues to contribute significantly to the development of South Africa and the African continent as a whole.

Established in 2005 as a result of a merger between earlier universities, it’s one of the largest universities in South Africa today. It hosts over 50,000 students across its four campuses.

The public university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs throughout its eight faculties of Education, Engineering and the Built Environment, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law, Management, Science, Art, Design and Architecture. UJ is known for its strong academic programs in commerce, management, law, and engineering.

“The Future. Reimagined” is more than just a catchy phrase for the university. The institution is at the forefront of the 4th Industrial Revolution thinking in Africa, reimagining the future in all disciplines.

UJ is also a research-intensive institution with a focus on advancing knowledge in critical areas such as sustainable development, health, and social justice. 

Accolades

Over the years, UJ has received numerous accolades and recognition for its academic excellence and research impact, including the Green Campus Initiative award in 2020 for its commitment to sustainability.

It has been ranked 2nd in South Africa and 147th globally in the UI Green Metric World University Rankings, which measures universities’ commitment to sustainability.

In perhaps the most well-known and respected university ranking system, the QS World University Rankings, the University of Johannesburg was listed as the 306th best university in the world and the 4th best in South Africa for the year 2024. It also ranked 5th in South Africa and 7th in Africa for the 2023 US News & World Report Best Global Universities Rankings. 

Facilities 

The university’s state-of-the-art facilities support its academic and research programs well. Across its four campuses, UJ has modern lecture halls, computer labs, research centres and institutes in areas such as health sciences, environmental sustainability and social justice as well as several libraries.

UJ student life 

Along with its strong academic offerings, the University of Johannesburg also offers a vibrant and diverse student life. 

Entertainment

UJ stages a range of extracurricular activities and events throughout the year to keep students entertained. It hosts a range of cultural events, including live music performances, theatre productions, art exhibitions, and more.

The university is home to a wide range of social clubs, societies, and associations, including fraternities and sororities, cultural organisations, and community service groups catering to different interests and passions. These groups offer students the chance to pursue their interests, get involved in the community where they can make a positive impact on the world around them, and meet new people.

Additionally, there are numerous bars and restaurants in the surrounding area where students can enjoy good food and good company. 

Student support

Students are also well supported at the University of Johannesburg. The university offers a range of support services for students to ensure that all students have the resources they need to succeed. Some of these include academic advising, career counselling, financial issues, and health and wellness services.

History of the University of Johannesburg

The University of Johannesburg has a rich history that dates to the early 20th century. Due to a series of mergers, it has undergone several transformations over the years, from a technical institute to a world-class research university.

In 1904, the South African School of Mines was established in Johannesburg. The year 1910 saw the establishment of the Transvaal Technical Institute.

A decade later, the Transvaal Technical Institute  was renamed the Transvaal University College. The University of the Witwatersrand was established, and the Transvaal University College became its constituent college in 1922.

In 1959, the Extension of University Education Act was passed, paving the way for the establishment of racially segregated universities in South Africa. Eight years later, The University of the North was established in the Northern Province, which was designated as a “homeland” for black South Africans.

Then, in 1972, The University of Durban-Westville, designated as a university for Indian South Africans, was established. A decade later, The Rand Afrikaans University (RAU), designated as a university for Afrikaner South Africans, was established.

On 1 January 2005, The University of Johannesburg was established through the merger of RAU, Technikon Witwatersrand, and the Soweto and East Rand campuses of Vista University.

In 2013, UJ was ranked among the top 4% of universities worldwide by the Centre for World University Rankings. Three years later, it ranked among the top 100 universities in BRICS countries and emerging economies by the renowned Times Higher Education World University Rankings.

Frequently asked questions about private student accommodation near the University of Johannesburg 

How does applying for a residence near the University of Johannesburg work?

When applying for a residence near the University of Johannesburg on Student.com, you can compare properties by price and location to find the most ideal student accommodation for you. The filters and map on this page will help you with this. Once you’ve chosen a residence you like, go to its property page by clicking on ‘View rooms’.

On the property page you’ll need to choose the type of room you want and the dates you need to book it for. After making your choice, click on ‘Enquire’ or ‘Book now’ and leave your contact details. One of our booking consultants will soon get in touch with you to answer any questions you may still have and to take you through the next steps of the booking process once you’re ready to book. 

What are the different room types you offer? 

We offer three different types of student rooms on Student.com.

In our Shared Rooms you’ll share a bedroom with a roommate. All other facilities are also shared.

In a Private Room you’ll have your own bedroom just for you. Depending on the property and the exact room you book, your bathroom may be either private or shared. Other facilities are shared with other students.

The Entire Place provides you with a fully private, self-contained property. You’ll get your own bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette and won’t have to share anything with anyone.

Are bills included in the rent?

Typically the normal bills are included in your rent in our Johannesburg residences. This might not always be the case though, so make sure to check on the property page to see if bills are included in the property you’re interested in booking.

Are the apartments fully furnished?

Typically our listed apartments in Johannesburg are not furnished, but we do list some furnished options too. You can find these by choosing the filter ‘Furnished available’.