Starting university in South Afrika is a very big step. One day you are finishing matric, the next you are on a huge campus with new people, new rules and total independence. It is exciting, but it can also feel scary and overwhelming.
The good news is that being prepared makes all the d¡fference. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do before your classes start, from sorting out your finances to setting up your study space. Let us get you ready to thrive from day one.
The Paperwork & Money (Do This First)
Before you think about anything else, sort out the official stuff. This will save you so much stress later.
1. Make Sure Your Funding is Sorted
Money worries can ruin your first year. Get this locked down early.
- If you have NSFAS, check your status and make sure all your documents are approved.
- If you have a bursary or scholarship, read the terms. Know what it pays for (tuition, books, accommodation, or a living allowance).
- Open a student bank account. Banks like FNB, Standard Bank, and Capitec have accounts with low fees for students.
Many Mzansi students make the mistake of thinking NSFAS or their bursary will cover everything. The truth is, there are always extra costs. Your funding might come in late (sometimes only in March or April), so you need backup money for the first few weeks. Keep at least R1000-R2000 aside for early expenses like transport, food, and stationery before your funding come through.
2. Understand Your Student Costs
University costs more than just fees. Here is a rough guide to monthly living costs for a student in South Africa:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (R) | Money-Saving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (residence or shared flat) | R2,500 – R6,000 | Apply for res early, consider sharing a room |
| Food & Groceries | R1,200 – R2,500 | Cook with friends, buy in bulk, use campus meal plans |
| Transport (if not in res) | R500 – R1,500 | Use student discounts, carpool, consider a bicycle |
| Data & Airtime | R200 – R600 | Use campus Wi-Fi, buy data bundles at month-end sales |
| Books & Study Materials | R300 – R1,000 | Buy second-hand, share with friends, use library copies |
| Personal & Toiletries | R200 – R500 | Buy generic brands, shop at discount stores |
Tip: Make a simple budget. Write down how much money you will have each month and subtract your expenses from it. This will help you avoid running out of cash before the end of a term. A good rule is to divide your monthly money into four weeks and only spend one quarter of it each week. This will help you from spending all your money in the first two weeks.
Remember hidden costs: printing on campus (can be R1-R2 per page), society fees (R50-R200 per society), formal events, and emergency costs like replacing lost keys or phone repairs. Always keep a small emergency fund of about R500 that you do not touch unless it is absolutely necessary.
Sort Out Your Living Space
Where you live affects how well you study and how happy you are. This decision is more important than many students realise.
3. University Residence vs Private Accommodation
- University Residence: Apply early! University res spots fill up very fast, so, applying on time is very important. Res are great because you get to meet people from different provinces and different backgrounds, so making friends become easy and rest are also important because they are closer to campus and even if they are far, reliable transportation is provided. Most reses have WiFi, cleaning services, and security. But you might have less privacy and more rules.
- Private Accommodation (digs/flat): If you are looking for a place off-campus, start searching now. Look for places that are safe, close to campus, and within your budget. Check if utilities (electricity, water, WiFi) are included in the rent and also if it is possible, try to visit the place in person before paying any deposit.
If you choose private accommodation, think about transport costs. A cheap flat far from campus might end up costing more with daily taxi or petrol costs. Also consider safety – is the area safe to walk in at night? Are there other students living nearby? A good tip is to ask the university’s accommodation office for a list of approved landlords or areas they recommend for students who don’t have space in university res.
4. What to Pack for Residence
Don’t forget these important items:
- Bedding: Check the size beds in res and bring your own sheets, a duvet, and pillows. Many res rooms have single beds, but you must check first.
- Documents: Certified copies of your ID, matric certificate, admission letter, and proof of funding. Keep these in a plastic folder that won’t get wet.
- Study Gear: Desk lamp (very important for late-night studying when your roommate is sleeping), extension cord (a must if you will be living in old res rooms😆), stationery, and a laptop.
- Home Comforts: A photo from home or your favourite mug can help with homesickness, and also bring any medications you need regularly.
- Kitchen Basics: Even if you have a meal plan, bring a plate, bowl, mug, cutlery, and a small container for leftovers. A kettle is useful for making coffee or when you’re making noodles.
- Laundry: Laundry basket, washing powder, and pegs(remember to write your name or initials on them, things get lost in shared spaces😆), and also learn how to use a washing machine before you go to university.
Remember that res rooms are usually small, do not overpack. You can always bring more things when you go home for a visit. Label everything with your name and room number,, things get lost in shared spaces.
Get Academically Ready
University learning is very different from high school learning, you need to prepare your mind and your materials.
5. Get Your Books and Study Materials
Do not wait until the first lecture to find your books. Here is a smart approach:
- Check your course outlines for the prescribed textbooks. Sometimes they are available online before classes even start.
- Buy second-hand books from senior students or on Facebook groups to save money. Look for groups specific to the university you’re going to.
- Wait for the first lecture before buying expensive books,sometimes lecturers tell you which books are really necessary and which are just recommended.
- Download any free software the university offers (like Microsoft Office 365). Most South African universities give students free Office 365 accounts.
Consider forming a textbook group with classmates, you can share books or split the cost. Also check if the library has copies you can borrow for a few hours at a time. For expensive science or engineering books, this can save you thousands of rands.
Essential tech to have: A reliable laptop (doesn’t need to be brand new, just reliable), a power bank for when you’re on campus all day, a good pair of headphones for studying in noisy places, and a flash drive or cloud storage for backing up your work.
6. Learn the Digital Systems
Your university’s online systems are your new best friend. In the first week, spend time exploring:
- Log into the student portal and find your timetable. Download it to your phone.
- Find the Learning Management System (like Blackboard, Canvas, or Moodle). This is where lecturers post notes, assignments, and announcements. Bookmark this page.
- Set up notifications so you get emails or alerts when new work is posted.
- Very important: Check your student email every day. All official messages go there. Set it up on your phone so you don’t miss anything.
- Find the online library system. Learn how to search for journal articles and e-books. This will save you hours later.
Many students struggle because they don’t understand these systems. During orientation, there are usually workshops on how to use them,, you must go to these even if you think you’re good with technology because every university’s system is different.
Part 4: The First Week Game Plan
The first week sets the tone for your whole year. Have a plan.
7. Orientation Week is Not Optional
Go to every orientation event you can. This is where you:
- Learn where your lecture halls are (do a walk to find them before day one). On big campuses, it can take 15 minutes to walk between buildings.
- Meet people in your faculty and res, these will be your classmates and possibly friends for the next 3-4 years.
- Join clubs and societies that interest you, don’t just join popular ones – find something you genuinely enjoy.
- Find important places like the library, clinic, and student support offices, that will help you to know where to go if you have a problem.
- Get your student card. You will need this for everything – writing tests, using the library, getting student discounts, getting into rest and also to get into the university.
Orientation can feel like a lot with so many events and unfamiliar faces. Keep it simple — try to meet three new people each day. Ask what they’re studying and where they’re from. Chances are, they’re just as nervous and eager to make friends as you are.
8. Build Your Support Network
University success isn’t just about studying alone. You need people around you:
- Find out where the Academic Support Centre and Counselling Service are located. It’s good to know before you need them, these services are free and confidential.
- Introduce yourself to at least two people in each of your classes. Swap numbers or create a WhatsApp group for the class. This is invaluable if you miss a lecture or don’t understand something.
- Be friendly with your res assistant (RA) or warden. They can help with problems in res and usually know a lot about university life.
- Find a senior student in your course who can give you advice. Many faculties have mentor programmes where senior students help first-years.
Remember that lecturers want you to succeed. Do not be afraid to go to their offices if you are struggling with your academic work, they’re usually happy to help students who show that they are trying.
Part 5: Health and Wellbeing Preparation
You can not study well if you are not feeling well, take care of your body and mind from the start.
9. Register with a Doctor or Clinic
- All universities have a campus health service, register there in your first week.
- If you have a medical condition, make sure you have enough medication and that the campus clinic knows about it.
- Know what to do if you get sick. Where is the nearest hospital? What’s the emergency number?
- If you are on medical aid, check which hospitals and doctors near campus are covered.
10. Learn Basic Self-Care Skills
If this is your first time away from home:
- Learn to cook 3-4 simple, cheap meals. Pasta, rice dishes, and eggs are good starters.
- Know how to do laundry properly, sort colours from whites, and also learn how to measure soap.
- Learn basic cleaning. Your roommates will appreciate it.
- Practice managing your sleep schedule. All-nighters might seem cool but they ruin your health and marks.
Part 6: Safety and Security
South African campuses are generally safe, but you need to be smart:
- Save campus security’s number in your phone. Most universities have 24-hour security.
- Never walk alone at night, especially off-campus. Use the campus shuttle or security escort services if available.
- Keep your room locked even if you’re just going to the bathroom.
- Don’t leave your laptop or phone unattended in the library or cafeteria.
- Be careful with social media, do not post that you’re away from your room or going on holiday.
First-Year Student Checklist
Use this checklist to make sure you’re ready:
- ✅ Funding confirmed (NSFAS, bursary, or student loan)
- ✅ Accommodation secured and deposit paid
- ✅ Student card collected and registration completed
- ✅ Textbooks and study materials sorted (at least the essential ones)
- ✅ Student portal and email set up on phone and laptop
- ✅ Timetable downloaded and lecture halls located on campus map
- ✅ Budget made for first semester with emergency fund
- ✅ Orientation Week schedule planned with key events highlighted
- ✅ Important campus numbers saved in phone (security, clinic, academic support)
- ✅ Basic cooking and laundry skills practiced
- ✅ Medical needs sorted and campus clinic located
- ✅ Transport plan worked out for first week
What South African Students Say
Here’s advice from students who’ve been through it:
“I wish someone told me to budget better. I spent all my NSFAS allowance in the first month! Learn from my mistake, make a plan and stick to it. Also, buy your groceries at cheaper stores like Shoprite instead of Woolworths if you’re on a tight budget.”
– Thando, 2nd Year, University of Johannesburg
“Going to Orientation Week was the best decision ever. That’s where I met my study group and my best friend. Don’t be shy, everyone is looking to make friends. Also, sit in the front row in lectures. You pay more attention and lecturers get to know your face.”
– Liam, 3rd Year, Stellenbosch University
“Buy your textbooks second-hand! I saved over R2000 in my first year by buying from seniors. Also, check if the library has copies you can borrow. And don’t skip 8am lectures, you’ll miss so much and it’s hard to catch up.”
– Precious, 1st Year, University of Pretoria
Common Questions from First-Years (FAQs)
1. Is first year very hard?
It’s a big adjustment. The work is different from high school, you need to be more independent. But if you go to class, do the work, and ask for help when you need it, you’ll be just f¡ne. The hardest part is managing your time and staying disciplined when no one is checking on you.
2. How do I make friends at university?
Everyone is in the same boat! Talk to people in your res, sit next to someone in lectures and say hello, and join clubs for things you enjoy. Don’t wait for people to come to you. In the first few weeks, say yes to every invitation (within reason) – even if you’re tired or shy.
3. What if I feel homesick?
This is very normal, especially in the first few weeks. Call home regularly, but also try to get involved on campus. Keeping busy and making new friends helps a lot. Bring some things from home that comfort you. Most students feel much better after the first month.
4. Can I change my course if I don’t like it?
Yes, but don’t make a quick decision. Speak to an academic advisor first. Sometimes you just need time to adjust to the new subject. If you really want to change, do it early (usually within the first few weeks of semester). Changing later might mean you lose time and money.
5. How many hours should I study per day?
Most lecturers say for every hour in class, you should do 2-3 hours of self-study. But everyone is different. Find what works for you. The key is consistency, studying a little every day is better than cramming all night before a test the next day.
6. What if I fail a subject in first year?
Do not panic, many students fail a module in first year. You can usually rewrite or repeat it. Speak to your academic advisor as soon as possible, they can tell you your options. Failing one subject doesn’t mean you’re not university material, it means you need to adjust your study methods.
7. Should I get a part-time job?
Only if you really need to. University work is heavy in first year. If you must work, try for an on-campus job that understands student hours. Don’t work more than 10-15 hours per week in your first year. Your studies must come first.
8. What should I do if I’m struggling with the work?
Ask for help early! Go to your lecturer’s consultation hours, jo¡n tutor groups, or visit the academic support centre. Don’t wait until you’re failing. Many Mzansi universities have free tutoring for first-year subjects. Also, form study groups with classmates – explaining things to others helps you understand better.
9. Do first year marks really matter?
Yes, they do. Good first-year marks can help you keep your bursary, get into competitive courses later, and build good study habits. Some companies look at your first-year marks when you apply for internships. But if your marks are not great, do not give up, you can improve in second year.
10. How do I deal with stress and pressure?
You have to exercise, eat properly, get enough sleep, and talk to someone. All universities have free counselling services, use them if you need to. Find stress relief that works for you, things like sport, music, art, or just hanging out with friends can help. Do nott bottle up stress until it becomes too much.
Final advice: Getting ready for university is about being practical. Sort out your money, learn how the systems work, and put yourself out there to meet peop|e. Remember that everyone feels nervous at first. University is a journey, you will make mistakes, learn from them, and grow. Take a deep breath, thousands of students have done this before you, and you can do it too. Your first year will be challenging, exciting, and life-changing. Good luck!