Questions & Answers
We Understand You Probably Have A Few Questions.
Is there admission criteria?
Only full-time students are accepted into Academia.
Can I choose my room?
You cannot choose the actual room but you are able to select the type of accommodation you prefer.
Can I choose my roommate?
Yes, include your friend’s name on your application form. You both have to apply on the same day.
Are there pictures of the rooms?
There are various room types, and there are pictures shown under each category under ‘accommodation’
Is the WiFi free?
You have access to the Stellenbosch University uncapped WiFi / free data (this excludes a once-off device registration fee charged by the University)
Are there house rules?
Yes there is a Code of Conduct, please visit the Resources page. Communal living requires that everyone respects each other’s rights. Please make sure you read and understand the Code.
Are the rooms serviced?
No, but there is a cleaning service available at additional cost. Contact Rudes Cleaning for prevailing costs.
Do I pay for water and electricity?
Your water and electricity is included in your total accommodation fee. However, students are encouraged to not waste these scarce resources
When can I move in and out?
Your contract will specify exactly when you are able to move in and when you must vacate at the end of the year.
Is there a safety and security protocol?
Yes, and your block leader will ensure that you are made aware of them. There are also regular fire drills.
How do I apply?
On this website go to the ‘applications’ tab on the home page and complete the application form.
How far is campus from Academia?
All faculties or departments are within walking distance from Academia, in fact the Engineering Faculty is across the road! The furthest faculty is the Sport Science Department, which is about 15/20min walk from Academia.
Is there a gymnasium?
There is a fully-equipped outdoor gym located within the secure Academia campus.
Are we allowed visitors?
Yes, but there is a visitor protocol that must be followed. Academia is a secure environment and we need to protect that. Please visit the Resources page.
Is there internet connectivity?
Uncapped WiFi is provided via SU intranet. All devices must be registered with SU.
Can I bring my bicycle?
Yes definitely, Academia and Stellenbosch in general are ideally suited for cycling. We also have lockable cages for safe and secure on-site storage.
What about laundry?
There is a cashless laundry system using the Eezipay prepaid card system.
There is also an onsite laundry service operated by Rudes.
What can I do about prepared meals?
The onsite deli offers a range of freshly cooked meals. In addition you are able to purchase a meal plan from the University of Stellenbosch for meals at the nearby Goldfields residence.
What about maintenance issues?
All maintenance issues are reported online at www.academia.co.za by selecting ‘Report a Fault’. Our on-site maintenance team will respond.
What do I do if someone parks in my parking bay?
Please visit the reception and report the matter. We will clamp the offender’s car. This will only be released once the offender has paid a fine.
Are there TV connections?
No we do not provide TV points but you can contact one of our preferred contractors to do an installation for you. Contact Academia office for more detail.
What are House fees/Huiskasgelde
The rules of Stellenbosch University pertaining to student fees, state that all students will either have a Residence or PSO (private students organisation) fee levied against their student accounts. The “huiskas” is administered by the student leaders under the supervision of the Resident Head and is used to facilitate student development and community building with the intention of offering all our students an enhanced university experience. In the case of SU students, the ‘huiskas’ contribution is debited to student accounts and collected with study and residence fees by the University. In the case of Non-SU students, payment must be made directly into the Academia account from where we transfer it to the Academia “huiskas” account held by the University.