Nelson Mandela University has residences on its Summerstrand and George campuses, and Student Villages in Summerstrand with self-catering units for senior students. Applications for residence far exceed the available rooms, so apply early. The details below come from the university's 2027 undergraduate guide and its 2026 student accounts guide.
How to apply
- Apply online on the Student Housing website.
- For 2027, all student housing applications closed on 30 September 2026, and late applications are not considered.
- Indicating that you need accommodation does not guarantee a place.
- A selection process takes place, with priority for applicants with excellent academic results.
- You are only admitted to a residence once you are academically admitted and have paid the required fees.
If residences are full
Applicants who are not accepted because on-campus residences are full may be placed in accredited off-campus residences. The university also helps students find other off-campus options, such as flats, houses and nearby private residences, on 041 504 2921.
Residence payments in 2026
- Down-payment: R8,600 a year, before registration
- Registration fee: R410 a semester, due by 30 April and 30 September, not refundable
- Breakage deposit: from R480 to R960 a semester, depending on the residence
The down-payment is your first advance payment towards residence fees, and the residence fee is raised when you register for occupancy of your room.
Who is exempt from the down-payment
- Sponsored students whose sponsor covers accommodation
- Successful NSFAS candidates
- University bursary students whose award covers the tuition and residence down-payments
Any outstanding debt must be settled before registration.
The breakage deposit
The breakage deposit covers damage to university property, and larger claims are charged to your account. Non-returning students can claim it back after leaving permanently, using the refund form from Student Housing, as long as their account is settled in full.
Residence costs
In 2026, official residences cost about R41,100 a year for a single room and R36,400 for a double room in several residences, or half these amounts per semester. Read more on the Nelson Mandela University fees page.
The Student Villages
The Student Villages in Summerstrand consist of self-catering units for senior students, and their breakage deposit is the highest, at R960 a semester.
Moving between residences
If you move to a residence with a different breakage deposit, the deposit on your account is adjusted automatically. For returning students, the previous year's breakage deposit is credited to their account at the start of registration.
Oppidani students
Students who do not live in a campus residence are known as Oppidani students, or Oppies, and they can still take part in student life.
Contact
Call Student Housing on 041 504 3690 or 041 504 1416, or email resadmissions@mandela.ac.za.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Nelson Mandela University residence applications close?
For 2027, on 30 September 2026.
How much is the residence down-payment?
R8,600 a year in 2026, before registration.
Can I get a breakage deposit refund?
Yes, after leaving permanently, if your account is settled in full.