Thrive Student Living: your questions answered
Thrive Student Living publishes a Help & Advice section covering everything from how to apply to what happens on move-in day. We've summarised the key points from that page (thrivestudentliving.co.za/help-and-advice) in our own words below, so you can see what to expect before you commit to a Thrive residence. This guide paraphrases Thrive Student Living's published Help & Advice page as of the time of writing in 2026; lease terms, fees and policies change, so confirm current details on thrivestudentliving.co.za or directly with Thrive before you apply.
How to apply and what to expect on move-in
Thrive runs a three-step online application: browse residences and pick your preferred building, click Apply Now and complete the required forms, then prepare and submit your documents. Ahead of move-in, Thrive sends clear communication about your move-in date and arrival procedure, and an on-site team helps with check-in and orientation during your first few days.
When it comes to what to bring, Thrive suggests bedding and personal items, study essentials, toiletries and clothing, plus personal decorations - Command strips and posters are fine, but permanent fixtures or painting your room are not.
Lease terms, fees and what's included
Thrive leases run for a standard 12 months, aligned with the academic year, with early termination terms set out in your signed agreement. Rent is due monthly on the 1st, with a seven-day payment reminder sent beforehand, and Thrive offers payment plans on request. The deposit is equivalent to one month's rent and is refundable when your lease ends, after an inspection.
Rent includes all utilities (electricity and water), high-speed Wi-Fi, weekly cleaning of shared areas, and 24/7 security - so most of your recurring costs are bundled into one monthly payment rather than billed separately.
- All utilities (electricity, water)
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Weekly cleaning of shared areas
- 24/7 security
Security, guests and eligibility
Thrive residences run 24/7 on-site security with a duty manager on call, access-controlled entry, CCTV in shared areas, and a resident app for incident reporting - emergency contacts are provided at move-in and posted in every flat. Guests are welcome by prior arrangement, but you need to register them at reception before they arrive; unregistered overnight stays aren't permitted.
To be eligible, you generally need to be a full-time student enrolled at a recognised higher-education institution, with a signed lease and a registered guarantor required for most students.
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Browse Thrive student accommodationFrequently asked questions
How do I apply to a Thrive residence?
Through a three-step online process: browse and choose a residence, click Apply Now and complete the forms, then submit your documents.
How long is a Thrive lease?
A standard 12-month lease aligned with the academic year, with early termination terms specified in your signed agreement.
What does Thrive rent include?
All utilities (electricity and water), high-speed Wi-Fi, weekly cleaning of shared areas, and 24/7 security.
What's the deposit at Thrive?
One month's rent, refundable at the end of your lease after an inspection. Payment plans are available on request.
Can I have guests at a Thrive residence?
Yes, by prior arrangement - register guests at reception before they arrive. Unregistered overnight stays aren't permitted.
Who is eligible to live at Thrive?
Full-time students enrolled at a recognised higher-education institution, with a signed lease and, for most students, a registered guarantor.