Respublica student accommodation: your questions answered
Respublica runs a number of residences near campuses across South Africa, and its FAQ page covers the practical details students actually need before signing - what's included, how deposits work, and how to cancel if plans change. We've summarised that FAQ (respublica.co.za/faqs) in our own words below. This guide paraphrases Respublica's published FAQ as of the time of writing in 2026; deposit rules, notice periods and included amenities can vary by residence and change over time, so confirm current details on respublica.co.za or directly with Respublica before you apply.
Registration, deposits and lease terms
Respublica advises registering in advance of the academic year, warning that leaving it later than early February risks missing out on a room. Lease terms depend on how you're placed: university-leased residences follow terms set by the institution, while private-paying students sign a minimum 10-month agreement that isn't fixed-term and can be cancelled with one calendar month's notice.
All students pay a breakage deposit, which is fully refundable if there are no breakages and rent is up to date. NSFAS-funded students may be exempt from the deposit, depending on their university - worth confirming directly given it varies.
What's included in rent
Respublica says rent generally includes free access to facilities such as Wi-Fi with unlimited data, bedroom cleaning, a laundry room, parking, utilities (lights and water), a gym, a swimming pool, a PC lab, recreation areas (braai facilities, a games room and outdoor chill areas), study rooms and TV rooms - though this can differ slightly by residence. Rooms come furnished with a bed, mattress, study desk, chair and cupboard, and apartments/studios also get a stove, microwave and fridge; students bring their own cutlery, crockery, bed linen and towels.
- Wi-Fi with unlimited data
- Bedroom cleaning
- Laundry room (free for current residents)
- Parking
- Utilities (lights and water)
- Gym, pool, PC lab
- Recreation, study and TV rooms
Transport, cars and meals
You're allowed to bring a car and parking is free, though you'll need to contact your Res Manager for an access sticker. If you don't have a car, most Respublica residences are within walking distance of campus, transport is included in the monthly rent at Urban Nest, Eastwood Village and West City, and Roscommon House is served by the UCT bus service. Saratoga Village and West City have operational canteens affiliated with Fundi, so NSFAS students can use their food allowance there.
Cancellation and refunds
Contracts with natural persons can be cancelled with one calendar month's notice, unless stated otherwise in your agreement. To get a refund, you submit a refund request, and qualifying refunds are processed within 21 days.
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Browse Respublica student accommodationFrequently asked questions
When should I register with Respublica?
In advance of the academic year - Respublica warns that registering later than early February risks missing out on a room.
Is the Respublica deposit refundable?
Yes, the breakage deposit is fully refundable if there are no breakages and your rent is up to date. NSFAS-funded students may be exempt, depending on their university.
What's included in Respublica rent?
Generally Wi-Fi with unlimited data, bedroom cleaning, a laundry room, parking, utilities, gym and pool access, a PC lab, and recreation, study and TV rooms - this can vary slightly by residence.
How do I cancel my Respublica contract?
Contracts with natural persons can be cancelled with one calendar month's notice, unless your agreement states otherwise. Refunds are processed within 21 days of a qualifying request.
Is transport included at Respublica residences?
It's included in the monthly rent at Urban Nest, Eastwood Village and West City, and Roscommon House is served by the UCT bus service. Most other residences are within walking distance of campus.