Rhodes University is a residential university in Makhanda, with dozens of undergraduate residences and houses, as well as postgraduate residences. Residence fees include meals, and they differ because some residences have better facilities or are better located. The details below come from the Rhodes University fees booklet for 2026.
Residence fees in 2026
Undergraduate residences fall into fee groups. For example, the group that includes Joe Slovo House, Prince Alfred House, Rosa Parks House, Salisbury House and Winchester House cost R92,851 a year, while the group that includes Allan Gray House, Botha House, Chris Hani House, Goldfields House and Walker House cost R97,482.
Postgraduate residences, such as the Gavin Relly Postgraduate Village, cost from about R79,087 self-catering to R118,387 with full board.
Single and shared rooms
Student accommodation is based on single rooms, and fees are levied at the full single-room rate at the start of the year. Where Rhodes allows students to share for its own convenience, it applies a 25% discount on the lodging. You cannot claim a sharing allowance where single accommodation is available.
Meals
Meals are part of residence life. In 2026, breakfast cost R18.69 and lunch and supper R44.03 each. Unbooked meals are refunded to your fee account at the end of each semester, up to a set maximum. Linen and laundry services are included, but you must bring your own toiletries and towels.
Paying for residence
South African students pay 25% of the annual residence fee as part of the Initial Fee Payment, by 23 January for first-time students in 2026. The residence balance is then paid in stages, reaching 100% by 30 September. Carefully note these dates if you want to stay in residence. International students pay 50% of tuition and residence by the same date.
Vacations
Undergraduate residences offer accommodation during the April recess at R291 a day, including meals. Early arrivals and late departures cost R180 a day. There is no vacation accommodation during the mid-year recess or over December and January.
Leaving a residence
If you withdraw early, for any reason other than an immediate family bereavement, medical illness or academic exclusion, Rhodes charges a cancellation fee of two months' residence fees, on top of the fees for your stay. You must vacate your room within 24 hours of notifying the university.
Other charges
Losing a room key costs R335, and losing a cupboard key R660. An extra-length bed costs R180.
Applying
Indicate on your application that you need residence accommodation, and apply before the end of September. See the how to apply to Rhodes page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Rhodes residence in 2026?
Most undergraduate residences cost about R92,851 to R97,482 a year, including meals.
Are Rhodes residence rooms shared?
Accommodation is based on single rooms, with a 25% discount where Rhodes asks students to share.
Is there vacation accommodation at Rhodes?
Only during the April recess, at R291 a day including meals.