Ulink student portal

The ULink Student Portal is an essential online platform for students at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), offering easy access to academic resources, registration services, and student information. Whether you’re a new or returning student, understanding how to navigate ULink is crucial for a smooth academic experience. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about logging in, resetting your password, and using the portal’s key features.

What is ULink?

ULink is the University of Johannesburg’s primary student portal, designed to provide students with seamless access to important academic and administrative services. The portal acts as a hub for managing your academic progress, from course registration to viewing results, and more. It’s the platform you’ll use to interact with the university on multiple fronts throughout your academic journey.

Key Features of the ULink Portal

  1. Course Registration: ULink allows you to register for your courses each semester, view the available modules, and confirm your enrollment.
  2. Academic Information: Students can access their grades, academic transcripts, and progress reports directly from the portal.
  3. Financial Services: Pay fees, access invoices, and check account balances through the portal.
  4. Personal Information: Keep your contact details and other personal information up to date on the portal.
  5. Communication: ULink is where you can receive important announcements, notices from your faculty, and messages from the administration.

How to Log into the ULink Student Portal

Logging into the ULink portal is simple. Just follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official ULink Student Portal.
  2. Enter your Student Number and PIN/Password.
  3. Click on Login to access your dashboard and begin using the portal.

Resetting Your Password

If you’ve forgotten your ULink password or need to reset it, don’t worry! UJ provides a straightforward process for resetting your password.

  1. Visit the Password Reset Page.
  2. Enter your Student Number and Email Address associated with your ULink account.
  3. Follow the instructions sent to your email to reset your password and regain access to your account.

Creating a New Password for ULink

If you are creating a new account or need to set up a password for the first time, you can do so easily.

  1. Go to the Password Create Page.
  2. Enter your Student Number and other required details.
  3. Create a secure password and save it for future access.

How to Log into Blackboard Without Using ULink

While the ULink portal is your main academic hub, Blackboard is another essential tool for accessing course materials, participating in online classes, and engaging with your professors. If you need to access Blackboard without using ULink directly, follow these steps:

Need Information or Confused about Something ?

Ask a Question
  1. Type https://uj.blackboard.com into the search tab and press enter.
  2. Click on Agree & Continue (important).
  3. Do not immediately enter your username and password.
  4. Click on Sign in with a third-party account.
  5. Select UJ Staff/Students: Login here (using your ULink credentials).
  6. Choose the Advanced option.
  7. Click on Proceed to cas.uj.ac.za (unsafe).
  8. Enter your ULink credentials to log into Blackboard.

Additional Resources for Students

  • Self Help iEnabler: For quick self-service features such as registration and account management, visit the Self Help iEnabler.
  • Student Services: Access student support services and resources directly from the portal, including academic advisories, counseling, and more.

 

Sponsored Guide

Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

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