University of Johannesburg (UJ): W&RSETA Bursaries 2026 – A Detailed Guide
The University of Johannesburg (UJ), one of South Africa’s leading institutions of higher education, offers a range of opportunities for students to pursue academic excellence in various fields. One of the most exciting opportunities available to UJ students is the W&RSETA Bursary Scheme 2026, which is aimed at students who wish to further their studies in the Wholesale and Retail sector.
The W&RSETA (Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority) plays a significant role in promoting education, training, and development within the wholesale and retail industries in South Africa. Through its collaboration with UJ, it supports students who aspire to pursue careers in these critical sectors by offering financial assistance.
In this article, we will explore the details of the UJ-W&RSETA Bursaries for 2026, including eligibility criteria, the fields of study supported, how to apply, and the benefits that come with this bursary program.
About W&RSETA and UJ
W&RSETA is a Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) that focuses on the wholesale and retail industries in South Africa. Its main objective is to facilitate the development of skills that are essential to these sectors by providing funding for training programs, bursaries, and work placements. The W&RSETA is instrumental in addressing the skills shortage in the wholesale and retail industries, which are vital to the country’s economy.
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a highly respected institution in South Africa, known for its commitment to academic excellence and producing well-rounded graduates. UJ offers a wide variety of programs that cater to a broad spectrum of fields, including business, engineering, law, and the sciences. UJ is dedicated to empowering students to become leaders in their fields, and the W&RSETA Bursary Program is one of the key initiatives that supports this mission.
Overview of the UJ-W&RSETA Bursaries 2026
The UJ-W&RSETA Bursary Scheme 2026 is a collaboration between the University of Johannesburg and W&RSETA. This bursary is aimed at providing financial assistance to South African students who wish to study in the wholesale and retail sectors. The bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, and other academic-related expenses, and is designed to relieve students from financial stress so they can focus on their studies and contribute to the growth of the wholesale and retail industries in South Africa.
The bursary is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students who are enrolled in full-time studies at UJ in fields that are related to the wholesale and retail sectors. Students who are awarded the bursary may also benefit from internships or work placements at leading companies in the wholesale and retail industries, offering invaluable hands-on experience.
Fields of study that are typically supported by the UJ-W&RSETA Bursaries include:
- Retail Management
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Marketing
- Business Administration
- Operations Management
- Economics and Business Studies
- Human Resources Management
- Entrepreneurship
- Accounting and Finance (Retail Focus)
- Information Systems and Technology (Retail Focus)
These fields are critical to the wholesale and retail industries, and the bursary helps equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the industry.
Bursary Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the UJ-W&RSETA Bursary for 2026, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- South African Citizenship: The bursary is open to South African citizens only.
- Enrollment at UJ: Applicants must be full-time students enrolled at the University of Johannesburg in a program related to the wholesale and retail sectors.
- Academic Performance: Applicants must have a strong academic record. Generally, students need to have a minimum average of 60% in their current or previous academic year.
- Financial Need: While academic merit is the primary criterion, preference may be given to students who demonstrate financial need.
- Interest in the Wholesale and Retail Industry: Preference is often given to students who show a genuine interest in pursuing a career in the wholesale and retail sectors.
What the UJ-W&RSETA Bursary Covers
The UJ-W&RSETA Bursary Program offers comprehensive financial support for students. The bursary typically covers the following:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees for the duration of the program.
- Accommodation: An accommodation allowance for students who need to live in university residences or rent private accommodation near the university.
- Textbooks and Study Materials: Financial assistance for the purchase of textbooks and other study materials required for the course.
- Living Expenses: A living allowance to assist with daily expenses such as food, transportation, and other personal costs.
- Internships and Work Placements: Students may have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships or work placements at major companies in the wholesale and retail industries.
The bursary provides a well-rounded support system, ensuring that students can focus entirely on their studies and gain the experience needed to excel in their careers.
How to Apply for the UJ-W&RSETA Bursary 2026
The application process for the UJ-W&RSETA Bursary Scheme involves several steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria before starting your application. You must be a South African citizen, enrolled at UJ, and studying in a relevant field.
- Prepare the Required Documents: Applicants need to submit the following documents as part of the application:
- A certified copy of your South African ID or passport
- Proof of UJ enrollment or acceptance letter from the university
- Your most recent academic transcript or report card
- A motivational letter outlining why you are pursuing a career in the wholesale and retail sector, why you deserve the bursary, and your long-term career goals
- A copy of your CV, including any relevant work experience or extracurricular activities
- Proof of household income (if applicable)
- Any other documents requested by W&RSETA or UJ
- Complete the Application Form: The application form can be obtained from the official UJ website or directly from the W&RSETA bursary portal. Ensure all fields are filled out accurately and completely.
- Submit the Application: Once the application form is complete and all necessary documents have been gathered, submit your application according to the instructions provided. This can typically be done through an online portal or via email.
- Wait for Shortlisting: After the application deadline, W&RSETA and UJ will review all applications and shortlist candidates. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or further documentation verification.
- Accept the Bursary: Successful applicants will receive a formal offer letter, and they will be required to accept the bursary and sign a bursary agreement.
Important Dates for UJ-W&RSETA Bursary Applications 2026
The UJ-W&RSETA Bursary Program typically opens for applications in mid-year (around June or July) and closes in October. Be sure to check the official UJ and W&RSETA websites for the exact application dates and deadlines.
Benefits of the UJ-W&RSETA Bursary
- Comprehensive Financial Support: The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and living expenses, ensuring that students are well-supported throughout their studies.
- Work Experience: The opportunity for internships and work placements in the wholesale and retail sectors gives students hands-on experience and practical skills that are essential for future employment.
- Career Growth: The skills developed through the program will open doors to various career opportunities in the wholesale and retail industries, which are a key part of South Africa’s economy.
- Contribution to the Industry: By supporting students to pursue studies in these sectors, the bursary helps to address the skills gap in the wholesale and retail industries, contributing to their overall growth and sustainability.
The UJ-W&RSETA Bursary Scheme 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for South African students who wish to pursue a career in the wholesale and retail sectors. With financial support for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, along with the possibility of gaining work experience through internships, this bursary provides students with the resources they need to excel academically and professionally.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in wholesale and retail, the UJ-W&RSETA Bursary is an excellent way to gain the qualifications and experience you need. Be sure to check the eligibility criteria, gather all the necessary documents, and apply before the deadline.
For more information or to apply for the UJ-W&RSETA Bursary 2026, visit the official University of Johannesburg and W&RSETA websites at:
