Choosing the right residence is one of the most important decisions for any student. If you are asking which residence is the best at University of Pretoria, the answer depends on your faculty, lifestyle preferences, and campus location.
The University of Pretoria offers 29 official residences, each designed to provide safe, convenient, and supportive accommodation for students.
Residences by Campus
To make the best choice, it is recommended to select a residence that matches your campus of study:
- Hatfield Campus – Central hub of student life and home to most undergraduate residences.
- Groenkloof Campus – Ideal for Education students, with residences tailored for the Faculty of Education.
- Prinshof Campus – Designed for students in the Faculty of Health Sciences.
- Onderstepoort Campus – Specifically for Veterinary Science students.
- Hatfield Postgraduate Residences – Reserved exclusively for postgraduate students.
By living on the same campus as your faculty, you reduce travel time, improve access to resources, and integrate more effectively into academic and social life.
What Makes a Residence the “Best”
The best residence at the University of Pretoria is not the same for everyone. Factors that define the right fit include:
- Proximity to Faculty – Staying close to your lectures and labs saves time and money.
- Student Community – Residences are known for strong traditions, student support networks, and leadership opportunities.
- Facilities – Wi-Fi, study areas, dining halls, and recreational spaces vary across residences.
- Postgraduate Options – If you are a postgraduate student, the Hatfield Campus residences provide quiet, research-focused environments.
- Accredited Private Accommodation – If university residences are full, accredited private housing offers a secure alternative.
Making the Right Choice
There is no single “best” residence at the University of Pretoria. Instead, the best option is the one that aligns with your academic program, personal preferences, and lifestyle needs.
Students are encouraged to apply early to secure placement, as residence spaces are limited and highly competitive.
FAQ: Residences at University of Pretoria
1. How many residences are at the University of Pretoria?
There are 29 official residences across different campuses, catering to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
2. Which residence is best for first-year students at UP?
Most first-year students are placed in Hatfield Campus residences, which are central and offer vibrant student communities.
3. Can postgraduate students stay in undergraduate residences?
No. Postgraduate students are placed in designated postgraduate residences on Hatfield Campus.
4. Are University of Pretoria residences furnished?
Yes. Residences generally include basic furniture such as a bed, desk, chair, and wardrobe.
5. What is the difference between university residences and accredited private accommodation?
University residences are owned and managed by UP, while accredited private accommodation is managed externally but approved by UP for safety and quality.
6. When should I apply for residence at UP?
You should apply as soon as applications open, as spaces are limited and highly competitive.
7. Which residence is closest to the Faculty of Education at UP?
Residences on the Groenkloof Campus are specifically designed for Education students.