Thinking about living on campus at the University of Cape Town (UCT)? Whether you’re a new student, a returning learner, or a postgraduate, this guide breaks down everything about student housing, residence life, fees, and key policies for 2025.

Welcome to UCT Residences

UCT welcomes thousands of students each year to its residences. Housing is limited, so understanding the process early helps you secure your spot.

🔑 Quick Fact: In 2025, only about 8,400 students out of UCT’s 28,000+ student population will live in campus housing.

Types of UCT Residences

🔹 1st Tier Residences (Mainly for undergraduates)

Includes catered halls like:

• Avenue Road Residence

• Fuller Hall

• Tugwell Hall

• Kopano

• Graça Machel Hall

👉 Best for: First-year students needing full support, meals, and an easy transition into university life.

🔹 2nd Tier Residences (Senior catering or self-catering)

For senior undergraduates and some postgraduates:

• Groote Schuur Residence (catered)

• Forest Hill, Liesbeeck Gardens, Obz Square (self-catering)

👉 Best for: Students wanting more independence with meal options or self-catering.

🔹 3rd Tier Residences (Postgraduates & families)

Self-catering flats and houses like:

• TB Davie Court

• Dullah Omar Hall

• Obz Square Postgrad

• Rondeberg Flats

👉 Best for: Postgraduate students, mature learners, or families.

Key Housing Policies You Must Know

✅ Eligibility for First-Year Undergraduates

• Financial Aid recipients are prioritised.

• Minors (under 18 on Feb 1) are prioritised.

• Top achievers with 540+ APS points are prioritised.

• Medical and special needs are considered.

✅ Eligibility for Postgraduates

• Limited spots; priority given to Black South African honours students.

• Other PG students often arrange private housing.

How Housing Offers Work

1. Apply via UCT online applications by 31 July.

2. Receive an Offer:

   • Specified offer: Assigned a specific building.

   • Unspecified offer: Placement confirmed later.

   • Transit offer: Temporary dormitory-style housing for up to 6 weeks while permanent placement is finalised.

3. Accept by Due Date: Or risk losing your spot.

4. Sign In: On your assigned date, to officially take your room.

🔄 The Waiting List

• New Applicants: If you don’t get an offer, your name goes on the waiting list, but there is no guarantee of placement. Always plan for off-campus options, too.

• Returning Students: Must inform SHAAS to remain on the waiting list if housing isn’t secured.

Late Arrivals

If you arrive after the sign-in deadline, submit a late arrival notice on housingonline.uct.ac.za. Your room is only held for five days after the final sign-in date.

Housing Fees and Financial Liabilities

• Annual Fees: Vary based on residence type. Example: ~R41,000 for catered, ~R27,500 for self-catering (subject to 2025 finalisation).

• Initial Payment: Due 31 January 2025.

• Meal Plans: Flexible options, but you can’t change plans mid-semester after the cutoff date.

Note: Non-payment risks de-registration. Always keep fee schedules updated with the Fees Office.

Housekeeping & Room Essentials

✔ Rooms come with a bed, wardrobe, desk, chair, and curtains.

✔ Bring your own: Bedding, towels, kitchenware (for self-catering).

✔ Laundry: Central facilities available.

✔ Housekeeping: Public areas are cleaned daily in junior/senior residences. Self-catering units require full self-cleaning.

🛑 Important Rules to Remember

• No subletting or unauthorised roommates.

• First-year undergrads cannot park cars on campus.

• No pets allowed.

• Rooms may be inspected for health, safety, or policy compliance.

• Cancellation after signing incurs charges and possible penalties.

Free Shuttle Service: Jammie Shuttle

The Jammie Shuttle offers free transport between residences, campuses, and public transit hubs – including late-night and holiday services. Special hire options (like airport transfers) are also available.

📆 Key 2025 Housing Dates

Vacation Accommodation

Students needing housing during vacation for academic reasons must apply online with proof (exam timetable or faculty letter). Personal stays require upfront payment at higher rates.

Off-Campus Housing Support

UCT’s Off-Campus Student Accommodation Services (OCSAS) provides listings of approved private rentals but does not manage contracts. Always verify before signing leases.

📞 Useful Contacts

• Student Housing Admissions: res@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-2977

• Vacation Accommodation: vacation@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-1049

• International Office: iapo@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-2822

• Fees Office: fnd-feeenq@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-1704

• Financial Aid: sfa-finaid@uct.ac.za | +27 21 650-3545

🔗 Full contact list on UCT Student Housing

Final Words

Living on campus at UCT isn’t just about having a bed near your classes – it’s about building lifelong friendships, engaging in diverse cultures, and growing as a global citizen.