Pretoria offers a unique opportunity to experience a city rich in cultural diversity and heritage. If you are in search of cheap student accommodation in Pretoria you have come to the right place. Student.com offers shared, private, and luxury student apartments in central locations in Pretoria CBD, within walking distance of pubs, museums, and other city attractions.

Set up home at Urban Nest, a stone’s throw from a renowned museum and a popular student pub, and close to the University of Pretoria.

Make the new Eastwood Village your home, or enjoy a fully furnished apartment in the lively student community of West City, with direct bus connections to Tshwane University of Technology.

To learn more about our affordable Pretoria student

accommodations, simply give us a call, or send us a message through live chat or on WhatsApp. Our helpful booking consultants are always happy to help you in finding the perfect student home for you! 

Pretoria at a glance

Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is located in the northern part of Gauteng Province. With a population of over 2 million people, it is the fourth-largest city in the country.

Also known as Tshwane, Pretoria is a bustling, multicultural city that boasts a rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Home to a plethora of attractions that cater to many interests, and an array of things to see and do, Pretoria should definitely be on your radar if you’re considering studying in South Africa.

A popular destination for students from all over the world, it’s a fascinating place with stunning scenery and diverse culture. With a rich blend of African, European, and Asian influences, the city is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, which is reflected in everything from the food to the art scene.

Cultural experiences 

The city’s unique history and culture are showcased by its various museums, art galleries, theatres, and historical landmarks.

One of the best places to experience Pretoria’s culture is the Market @ the Sheds. Held every Saturday, this vibrant market showcases the best of Pretoria’s local talent, from artists and designers to chefs and musicians. It’s a great place to mingle with locals, sample delicious food, and pick up some unique souvenirs.

One of the most iconic attractions in Pretoria is the Paul Kruger House Museum. Once the home of Paul Kruger, the former president of the South African Republic, this Victorian-era house showcases Kruger’s life and the events that led up to the Second Boer War.

For those who are interested in natural history and science, the National Museum of Natural History is a must-visit. It houses a vast collection of fossils, minerals, and other specimens that provide insight into the natural world.

The Pretoria Art Museum is a must-visit. The museum is home to a vast collection of contemporary South African art, as well as a range of temporary exhibitions.

The city is also known for its vibrant music and arts scene, with various festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Featuring a wide range of music, theatre, and dance performances, the Aardklop Arts Festival is one of the most popular events in Pretoria. The festival attracts artists and performers from all over South Africa and beyond, making it a truly multicultural experience.

History and architecture 

Pretoria has a long and fascinating history, with many landmarks and monuments telling the story of the city’s past.

For history buffs, the Union Buildings are a must-visit. Located on Meintjieskop, this iconic landmark is home to the offices of the South African president and has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. The buildings’ breath-taking views of the city from atop the hill are definitely worth the hike up.

Another must-see for students in Pretoria is the Voortrekker Monument. Surrounded by a beautiful nature reserve, the symbol of Afrikaner nationalism commemorates the Great Trek of the 1830s. The massive granite structure is a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture and boasts an impressive museum.

Landscape

Pretoria’s landscape is as diverse as its culture, with rolling hills, lush gardens, and sprawling nature reserves. One of the best ways to experience the city’s natural beauty is by visiting the 76-hectare National Botanical Gardens, which are home to over 22,000 indigenous plants, including rare and endangered species.

Explore the stunning 600-hectare Groenkloof Nature Reserve on foot, bike, or horseback. This reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including baboons, zebras, and antelopes.

Pretoria is known as the “Jacaranda City” for a reason. The stunning Jacaranda trees bloom in October and November, painting the city in a sea of purple. The large number of trees that line the streets is a sight to behold and a perfect photo opp, so be prepared to keep reaching for your phone.

Student life in Pretoria

With its diverse culture, numerous attractions, lively nightlife, and easy-going atmosphere, Pretoria is a superb choice for any student looking to explore South Africa.

The city is home to numerous universities, making it a melting pot of cultures and ideas leading to a rich student life. From museums and galleries to festivals and outdoor markets, Pretoria offers a plethora of extramural activities for students to enjoy during the day and at night.

Nightlife in Pretoria

From low-key bars to high-energy clubs, Pretoria’s nightlife scene caters to all tastes. Hatfield is the go-to neighbourhood for students looking to party. This lively area is home to numerous bars, pubs, and clubs, making it the perfect place to meet new people and have a good time. One of the most popular spots in the residential area is the Aandklas bar, which offers live music, affordable drinks, and a friendly atmosphere.

Entertainment options

Aside from its nightlife, Pretoria offers plenty of entertainment options for students. The city has numerous movie theatres, bowling alleys, and arcades where you can spend your free time. If you’re looking for something more cultural, the State Theatre is a great option. This historic theatre hosts a variety of shows, including theatre productions, ballets, and musicals.

Event calendar

Pretoria also has a packed event calendar, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Jacaranda Festival, which takes place in October. This colourful festival celebrates the city’s famous Jacaranda trees, which bloom in a stunning shade of purple during springtime. The festival features live music, food stalls, and a carnival atmosphere. 

Restaurant scene

Pretoria’s restaurant scene is as diverse as its culture, offering a range of cuisines from around the world. One of the best places to eat in the city is the Maboneng Precinct. This trendy neighbourhood is home to numerous restaurants, cafes, and food stalls, offering everything from sushi to pizza. The precinct also hosts a weekly market on Sundays, where you can sample some of the best street food in the city.

Recreational activities

Whenever you need to escape from the excitement and the hustle and bustle of city life, Pretoria has several peaceful getaway spots.

The Pretoria Botanical Gardens offer numerous walking trails and picnic areas, making it the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon.

If you’re an animal lover and like getting up close and personal with them, the popular National Zoological Gardens of South Africa is like paradise. Also known as the Pretoria Zoo, it has over 9,000 animals and 700 different species from around the world.

Transportation

With several transportation options available, getting around Pretoria is easy. The city has a reliable public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and taxis. The bus system has routes connecting all the major neighbourhoods. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available, providing a convenient and affordable way to get around.

The city’s location in the heart of South Africa also makes it an ideal base for exploring the rest of the country, with for example Johannesburg being only about 60 kilometres (37 miles) away.

Where to study in Pretoria?

Home to several top-ranked universities, Pretoria is an ideal destination for those who are in pursuit of world-class education and excellent research opportunities. 

University of Pretoria

One of the largest and most reputable universities in South Africa, the University of Pretoria is renowned for its academic excellence and research output. Founded in 1908, the university is located in the heart of Pretoria and has a diverse student population from South Africa and around the world.

It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, such as engineering, law, medicine, science, and humanities across nine faculties.

The university is also home to various research institutes and centres, including the Future Africa Institute, the Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, and the Centre for the Study of Governance Innovation.

A top university globally, the University of Pretoria placed 323rd in the 2024 QS World University rankings, making it the fifth best university in South Africa. It is also ranked in the top 100 universities in the world for the study of mineral and mining engineering and veterinary science.

University of South Africa

One of the oldest and largest universities in the country, the University of South Africa was founded in 1873. It has multiple campuses across the country with its main headquarters in Pretoria, where you can find the Sunnyside and Muckleneuk campuses.

The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in areas such as law, education, and business. Unisa was ranked as one of the 900 best universities in the world by the 2024 QS World University Rankings, making it the 8th best university in South Africa. According to QS, it has especially strong programs in Education and Training, Materials Sciences, Physics and Astronomy, and Chemistry.

Tshwane University of Technology 

One of the largest universities of technology in South Africa, Tshwane University of Technology, has a strong focus on innovation, applied research, and entrepreneurship.

Formed in 2004 as a result of a merger between three earlier institutions, it offers a wide range of vocational and career-oriented programs in fields such as engineering, business, and the arts.

Frequently asked questions about student apartments in Pretoria

How do I apply for private student accommodation in Pretoria on Student.com?

You can apply for private student housing in Pretoria with just a few clicks. Select the student residence you’re interested in by using the filters and map on this page to find the most suitable accommodation for you, then click ‘View rooms’ to go to the property page.

On the property page you’ll need to choose the room type you’d like to book. Once you’ve chosen, click ‘Enquire’ or ‘Book Now’ and leave your contact details. One of our booking consultants will then be in touch with you to help you to answer any questions you may still have and to help you complete the booking process once you’re ready to book.

What are the different types of student rooms you offer? 

We list different types of student rooms on Student.com.

1) Shared Rooms – Here you have a bedroom that you share with a roommate. All other living spaces are also shared.

2) Private Room – Here you get a private bedroom that accommodates just one individual. Depending on the exact property and room that you choose, your bathroom may be either private or shared. Other facilities are shared with your fellow students.

3) Entire Place - This is a fully self-contained studio flat with fully private facilities. You’ll have your own private bedroom, bathroom and a kitchenette for cooking your meals. You don’t have to share anything, so this is the perfect choice if you love your privacy!

Do you offer student accommodation for postgraduate students as well? 

Yes, absolutely! As long as you are a full-time student, you can book any accommodation listed on Student.com.

Are bills included in the rent? 

Usually bills are included in the rent, but this depends on the property. You can see on the property page of each property if the bills are included or not.

Are the apartments fully furnished? 

Usually the apartments we list in Pretoria are not furnished. You can select the filter ‘Furnished available’ to see if there are any furnished properties available though.