Dreaming of studying in South Africa? Sunshine, stunning scenery, and a vibrant culture await! According to the International Education Association of South Africa, South Africa attracts over 45,000 international students to its universities and colleges annually. But before you pack your bags, let’s talk about the basics: the cost of living in South Africa.
Worried about the complexities of managing your expenses in a new country? Fear not, future student adventurer! This guide will be your financial guide, helping you through the expenses you’ll encounter in South Africa. From figuring out rent to budgeting for delicious braai nights (South African barbecues), you’ll unveil the secrets to living comfortably as an international student in South Africa.
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Imagine living in a city that boasts stunning natural landscapes and a lower cost of living. South Africa offers just that, especially in cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. New York is 142% more expensive than South Africa for Indian students. The cost of living in South Africa is significantly lower —about 30% to 40%— than in major global cities like London, Sydney, or Toronto. This affordability means you can enjoy a high standard of living without breaking the bank.
Another significant advantage of choosing South Africa is the availability of scholarships and part-time work opportunities. Many international students in South Africa secure scholarships such as the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship, which provides between ZAR 75,000 and 1,00,000 (INR 3.1L—4.1L) annually to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
So, grab your virtual notepad and get ready to explore the fascinating world of South African cost of living — affordability included!
Key Highlights
Here are some of the most important points about the cost of living in South Africa that you’ll explore in this blog.
| Key Highlights | Details |
| Cost of Studying in South Africa(Average Annual Tuition Fees) | INR 2L – INR 5L (ZAR 50,000 – 125,000) |
| Cost of Living in South Africa | INR 20K – INR 40K (ZAR 5,000 – 10,000) |
| Cost of Living in South Africa that Goes Towards Utilities | INR 7.2K – INR 13.6K (ZAR 1,800 – 3,400) |
| Cost of Public Transportation | INR 2.8K – INR 6K (ZAR 700 – 1,500) |
| Total Monthly Cost of Living in South Africa | INR 42K – INR 84K (ZAR 10,500 – 21,000) |
| Scholarships that Reduce the Cost of Study for Indian Students | Mandela Rhodes Scholarship: ZAR 75,000 – 1,00,000 (INR 3.1L – 4.1L) per year NRF-TWAS Doctoral Fellowships: USD 10,000 (INR 8.2L) per year University of Cape Town Master’s Scholarship: ZAR 50,000 (INR 2L) per year |
| Part-Time Job Earnings (Monthly) | INR 12K – INR 24K (ZAR 3,000 – 6,000) |
Cost of Living in South Africa for Students
Understanding the cost of living in South Africa is crucial when planning your study abroad journey. In South Africa, you have various accommodation options to suit different budgets. Here are some specific cost-cutting tips to help you manage your accommodation expenses effectively:
- Choose Affordable Areas: Opt for housing in affordable areas like Bellville in Cape Town or Braamfontein in Johannesburg, where rental prices are lower.
- Share Accommodation: Consider sharing an apartment with other students to split the rent and utility costs.
- On-Campus Housing: Look for on-campus dormitory options, which are often more affordable and include utilities in the rent.
- Long-Term Leases: Negotiate for long-term leases as they might offer a lower monthly rate than short-term rentals.
Below is a table outlining the average monthly costs for different student accommodation types, which can help you accurately calculate the cost of living in South Africa.
| Accommodation Type | Average Monthly Cost of Living in South Africa |
| On-Campus Dormitory | INR 12K – INR 25K (ZAR 3,000 – 6,000) |
| Shared Apartment | INR 20K – INR 40K (ZAR 5,000 – 10,000) |
| Average Apartment Rent in South Africa | INR 40K – INR 60K (ZAR 10,000 – 15,000) |
| Homestay | INR 20K – INR 35K (ZAR 5,000 – 8,750) |
Cost of Living in South Africa in Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the most popular cities for international students in South Africa, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and excellent academic institutions.
The cost of living in Cape Town is relatively affordable compared to major cities worldwide. On average, Cape Town is about 40% cheaper than New York and London. This affordability makes it an attractive destination for students seeking high-quality education without the high costs.
Here’s a breakdown of the basic cost of living in South Africa in Cape Town.
| Expense Type | Cape Town Cost of Living Per Month |
| Accommodation (Shared Apartment) | INR 24K – INR 40K (ZAR 6,000 – 10,000) |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) | INR 7.2K – INR 13.6K (ZAR 1,800 – 3,400) |
| Public Transportation | INR 2.8K – INR 6K (ZAR 700 – 1,500) |
| Groceries | INR 8K – INR 16K (ZAR 2,000 – 4,000) |
| Eating Out (Occasionally) | INR 4K – INR 8K (ZAR 1,000 – 2,000) |
| Total Monthly Cost | INR 46K – INR 83.6K (ZAR 11,500 – 20,900) |
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Cost of Living in South Africa in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, also known as Jo’burg, is South Africa’s largest city and an economic hub. It offers a diverse range of experiences and opportunities for students.
The cost of living in Johannesburg is approximately 30% cheaper than in major cities like Sydney and Toronto, making it an affordable option for international students. Johannesburg provides a vibrant urban environment and affordable living costs, making it a compelling choice for students.
Here’s a breakdown of the essential cost of living in South Africa – Johannesburg.
| Expense Type | Monthly Cost of Living in Johannesburg |
| Accommodation (Shared Apartment) | INR 20K – INR 36K (ZAR 5,000 – 9,000) |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) | INR 7.2K – INR 13.6K (ZAR 1,800 – 3,400) |
| Public Transportation | INR 2.8K – INR 6K (ZAR 700 – 1,500) |
| Groceries | INR 8K – INR 16K (ZAR 2,000 – 4,000) |
| Eating Out (Occasionally) | INR 4K – INR 8K (ZAR 1,000 – 2,000) |
| Total Monthly Cost | INR 42K – INR 79.6K (ZAR 10,500 – 19,900) |
Cost of Living in South Africa that Goes Towards Food and Groceries
Managing your food expenses is an important part of budgeting while studying abroad. South Africa offers a variety of affordable eateries where you can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Here are some budget-friendly options.
- Nando’s: Famous for its peri-peri chicken, this chain offers affordable meal options for students.
- Debonairs Pizza: Great for quick, affordable pizzas and meal deals.
- Spur Steak Ranches: Known for its reasonably priced burgers and steaks, perfect for a hearty meal.
- Ocean Basket: Offers affordable seafood dishes that are ideal for seafood lovers.
- Wimpy: A budget-friendly option for breakfast and lunch, serving various dishes from burgers to salads.
Below is a table outlining the average monthly food costs for students, which you should factor into the cost of living in South Africa.
| Expense Type | Average Monthly Cost |
| Eating Out (Occasionally) | INR 4K – INR 8K (ZAR 1,000 – 2,000) |
| Groceries | INR 8K – INR 16K (ZAR 2,000 – 4,000) |
| Total Monthly Food Costs | INR 12K – INR 24K (ZAR 3,000 – 6,000) |
When shopping for groceries, it’s helpful to know the average prices of everyday items to fully understand the cost of living in South Africa. Below is a table of typical grocery items and their costs in South Africa.
| Grocery Items | Average Cost |
| Milk (1 litre) | INR 35 (ZAR 9) |
| Bread (1 loaf) | INR 70 (ZAR 18) |
| Eggs (12) | INR 105 (ZAR 27) |
| Rice (1 kg) | INR 70 (ZAR 18) |
| Chicken (1 kg) | INR 315 (ZAR 80) |
| Apples (1 kg) | INR 105 (ZAR 27) |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | INR 35 (ZAR 9) |
| Tomatoes (1 kg) | INR 70 (ZAR 18) |
| Cheese (500 g) | INR 315 (ZAR 80) |
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Utility Cost in South Africa Per Month
Managing utility costs is essential for budgeting while studying in South Africa. To help you save on phone and internet expenses, here are some budget-friendly companies in South Africa. Have a look.
- Telkom: Offers competitive rates for both mobile and broadband internet plans.
- Vodacom: Known for its extensive network coverage and affordable data bundles.
- MTN: Provides a variety of cost-effective mobile and internet packages suitable for students.
- Cell C: Offers budget-friendly mobile plans and unlimited internet packages.
- Rain: Known for its affordable unlimited data plans, ideal for heavy internet users.
By choosing the right utility providers and managing your usage, you can effectively control your utility costs while studying in South Africa.
Below is a table outlining the average monthly utility costs for students and how it can affect the cost of living in South Africa.
| Utility Type | Average Monthly Cost |
| Electricity | INR 2.4K – INR 4.8K (ZAR 600 – 1,200) |
| Water | INR 1.2K – INR 2.4K (ZAR 300 – 600) |
| Internet (Unlimited) | INR 2.8K – INR 4.4K (ZAR 700 – 1,100) |
| Mobile Phone Plan | INR 800 – INR 2K (ZAR 200 – 500) |
| Total Monthly Utilities | INR 7.2K – INR 13.6K (ZAR 1,800 – 3,400) |
Cost of Living in South Africa Per Month that Goes Towards Transportation
Efficiently managing transportation costs is critical to maintaining your budget while studying in South Africa.
Here are some companies that offer monthly passes and affordable ride-sharing apps. Have a look.
Monthly Passes:
- MyCiTi (Cape Town) offers affordable monthly passes for students and provides unlimited access to the bus network.
- Rea Vaya (Johannesburg): Provides cost-effective monthly passes for the city’s bus rapid transit system.
- Metrorail: Available in several cities, offering monthly passes for train travel at discounted rates.
Affordable Ride-Sharing Apps:
- Uber: Widely available with student discounts and frequent promotional offers.
- Bolt: Known for its competitive pricing and frequent discounts.
- InDriver: Allows users to negotiate fares, often resulting in lower costs.
Below is a table outlining the average monthly transportation costs for Indian students like you.
| Transportation Type | Average Monthly Cost |
| Public Transportation | INR 2.8K – INR 6K (ZAR 700 – 1,500) |
| Ride-Sharing (Occasional) | INR 4K – INR 8K (ZAR 1,000 – 2,000) |
| Total Monthly Costs | INR 6.8K – INR 14K (ZAR 1,700 – 3,500) |
Cost of Living in South Africa vs Other Countries
When considering studying abroad, understanding the cost of living in your chosen destination is crucial. South Africa is renowned for its affordable living expenses, which can significantly ease the financial burden on international students like you.
Compared to popular study destinations such as the USA, UK, and Australia, South Africa offers a much more economical lifestyle. For instance, living in South Africa can be up to 50% cheaper than in the USA and 60% cheaper than in the UK.
This affordability extends across various aspects of daily living, from accommodation and groceries to transportation and utilities. The following table highlights the monthly cost of living in South Africa versus the USA, UK, and Australia, providing a clear picture of how much more affordable South Africa can be.
| Country | Monthly Cost of Living |
| South Africa | INR 42K – 84K (ZAR 10,500 – 21,000) |
| USA | INR 1.2L – 2.4L (USD 1,500 – 3,000) |
| UK | INR 1.7L – 3.3L (GBP 1,700 – 3,300) |
| Australia | INR 93K – 1.8L (AUD 1,860 – 3,720) |
Cost of Obtaining a Student Visa for South Africa
Securing a student visa is a critical step in your journey to studying in South Africa. The visa application process involves several fees, and it’s important to budget for these costs beforehand. The study visa application fee for South Africa is approximately INR 4.5K (ZAR 1,100).
Additionally, you will need to undergo a medical examination and obtain a radiological report, which can cost between INR 3.6K – 8K (ZAR 900 – 2,000). A police clearance certificate, costing around INR 2K – 4K (ZAR 500 – 1,000), is also required.
Understanding these expenses helps ensure you are financially prepared for all aspects of your visa application. The following table breaks down the costs associated with obtaining a student visa for South Africa.
| Visa Type | Cost |
| Study Visa Application Fee | INR 4.5K (ZAR 1,100) |
| Medical Examination | INR 2K – 4K (ZAR 500 – 1,000) |
| Radiological Report | INR 1.6K (ZAR 400) |
| Police Clearance Certificate | INR 2K – 4K (ZAR 500 – 1,000) |
| Total Cost | INR 10.1K – 14.1K (ZAR 2,500 – 3,500) |
Cost of Studying at Top Universities in South Africa
Did you know that the acceptance rates at top-rated universities in Australia are competitive, typically ranging from 20% to 40%? This exclusivity ensures you will receive a top-notch education, surrounded by peers equally dedicated to educational excellence.
Furthermore, these universities are affordable, making the cost of studying in South Africa much more manageable.
Below is a table highlighting the top 5 universities in South Africa, their 2025 QS World Ranking, and their average annual tuition fees.
| University Name | QS World Rankings 2025 | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| University of Cape Town | 171 | INR 2L – INR 4L (ZAR 50,000 – 100,000) |
| University of the Witwatersrand | 267 | INR 3L – INR 5L (ZAR 75,000 – 125,000) |
| Stellenbosch University | 296 | INR 2L – INR 4L (ZAR 50,000 – 100,000) |
| University of Johannesburg | 312 | INR 2L – INR 3L (ZAR 50,000 – 75,000) |
| University of Pretoria | 354 | INR 2L – INR 3L (ZAR 50,000 – 75,000) |
Top 5 Scholarships to Reduce The Cost of Studying in South Africa
Securing a scholarship can significantly ease your financial burden while studying abroad. In South Africa, around 30% of international students manage to secure some form of scholarship, reflecting the country’s commitment to supporting talented students from around the globe.
Scholarships cover tuition fees and often include living expenses, making South Africa an appealing destination for higher education.
Here are the top 5 scholarships available for international students, including the amount awarded, which can significantly reduce your overall cost of living in South Africa.
| Scholarship Name | Money Awarded |
| Mandela Rhodes Scholarship | ZAR 75,000 – 100,000 (INR 3.1L – 4.1L) |
| NRF-TWAS Doctoral Fellowships | USD 10,000 per year (INR 8.2L) |
| University of Cape Town Master’s Scholarship | ZAR 50,000 (INR 2L) |
| Stellenbosch University International Scholarship | ZAR 40,000 (INR 1.6L) |
| Canon Collins Scholarships for Postgraduate Study | GBP 3,500 – 5,000 (INR 3.6L – 5.1L) |
Also read: Upcoming Global Youth Convention 2024 in South Africa: Eligibility, Benefits, How to Apply
Top Recruiters and Part-Time Jobs to Manage Cost of Living in South Africa
Working part-time while studying can help you manage expenses, gain valuable work experience, and balance your academic life.
In South Africa, international students on a study visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during vacation periods. Finding a suitable part-time job can make your life more financially manageable and enriching.
Here are some top recruiters for part-time jobs in South Africa.
- Pick n Pay is one of the largest supermarket chains in South Africa, and it offers roles such as retail sales assistants and cashiers.
- Woolworths: Known for its high-quality retail stores, Woolworths frequently hires students as sales assistants and cashiers.
- Mugg & Bean: A popular coffee shop chain that regularly hires baristas and waitstaff, perfect for students looking for flexible hours.
- Tutor.com: An online platform offering tutoring positions for students proficient in various subjects, ideal for those who excel academically and want to help others.
- Datafin Recruitment: Specialises in placing data entry clerks and other administrative roles, providing opportunities for students with strong organisational skills.
Below is a table of some of the top part-time jobs available for students, along with their average hourly wages, which can significantly help you manage the cost of living in South Africa.
| Job Title | Average Hourly Wage |
| Retail Sales Assistant | INR 240 – INR 400 (ZAR 60 – 100) |
| Waiter/Waitress | INR 200 – INR 320 (ZAR 50 – 80) |
| Tutoring | INR 400 – INR 600 (ZAR 100 – 150) |
| Barista | INR 200 – INR 320 (ZAR 50 – 80) |
| Data Entry Clerk | INR 320 – INR 480 (ZAR 80 – 120) |
| Library Assistant | INR 200 – INR 320 (ZAR 50 – 80) |
| Receptionist | INR 240 – INR 400 (ZAR 60 – 100) |
| Research Assistant | INR 400 – INR 600 (ZAR 100 – 150) |
| Customer Service Representative | INR 240 – INR 400 (ZAR 60 – 100) |
How Can You Reduce Your Cost of Living in South Africa?
Managing expenses is crucial for students studying abroad. Here are some specific tips on how you can reduce your cost of living in South Africa while studying there.
- Utilise Student Discounts
Many places in South Africa offer student discounts. Always carry your student ID with you and ask for discounts at:
- Public Transport: Get discounted rates on MyCiTi buses in Cape Town and Rea Vaya in Johannesburg.
- Movie Theatres: Ster-Kinekor and Nu Metro offer discounted ticket prices for students.
- Museums and Cultural Sites: Many museums and cultural sites, like the Iziko Museums in Cape Town, offer reduced student entry fees.
- Cook at Home
Cooking at home is significantly cheaper than eating out. Here are some tips for you.
- Meal Prep: Plan your weekly meals and prepare them to avoid last-minute eating out.
- Buy in Bulk: To save money, purchase non-perishable items like rice, pasta, and canned goods in bulk from wholesale stores like Makro or Game.
- Use Free Campus Facilities
Take advantage of the facilities available on your university campus. The most common ones are listed below.
- Libraries: Use university libraries to study and borrow books instead of buying them.
- Gym Facilities: Many universities have free or discounted gym facilities for students. You can use these instead of paying for a gym membership.
To Conclude
Understanding the cost of living in South Africa is crucial for planning your budget and making the most of your student experience.
Cape Town offers a vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, and the cost of living is about 40% cheaper than in major cities like New York and London.
Additionally, you can benefit from part-time job opportunities to support your living expenses. Jobs such as retail sales assistants, waitstaff, and tutors can provide hourly wages ranging from INR 200 – to INR 600 (ZAR 50 – 150).
Scholarships like the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship and the NRF-TWAS Doctoral Fellowships also offer significant financial support, making education more accessible.
Understanding and managing the cost of living in South Africa allows you to enjoy a fulfilling and affordable study experience.
Planning, budgeting wisely, and taking advantage of all available resources will ensure your time in South Africa is educationally rewarding and financially manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What is the cost of living in South Africa for international students?
Ans. The cost of living in South Africa for international students is relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. On average, students can expect to spend between INR 42K – and INR 84K (ZAR 10,500 – 21,000) per month, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials. Significant cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg offer diverse living options for different budgets. Students can manage their expenses by taking advantage of student discounts and opting for affordable housing areas. Overall, South Africa provides a high-quality lifestyle at a reasonable cost for international students.
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Q: How does Cape Town’s cost of living compare to other cities?
Ans. The Cape Town cost of living is about 40% cheaper than major global cities like New York and London. Students in Cape Town can expect to spend between INR 46K – and INR 83.6K (ZAR 11,500 – 20,900) per month. This includes costs for accommodation, utilities, food, and transportation. Cape Town offers affordable housing options in areas like Bellville and Parow. The city’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture add to the value, making it a great place to live and study
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Q: What are typical living expenses in South Africa for a student?
Ans. Typical student living expenses in South Africa range from INR 42K—INR 84K (ZAR 10,500 – 21,000) per month. This includes accommodation, utilities, groceries, eating out, and transportation. Students can save money by cooking at home, using public transportation, and taking advantage of student discounts. Shopping at local markets and bulk-buying essentials can also help reduce costs. Overall, South Africa offers a cost-effective lifestyle for students.
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Q: How much does it cost to live in Johannesburg?
Ans. The cost of living in Johannesburg is approximately 30% cheaper than in cities like Sydney and Toronto. Students can expect to spend between INR 42K – and INR 79.6K (ZAR 10,500 – 19,900) per month. This includes accommodation, utilities, food, and transportation. Johannesburg offers affordable housing in areas like Braamfontein and Auckland Park. The city provides a dynamic urban environment with various cost-saving options for students.
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Q: What is the cost of living in South Africa per month?
Ans. The monthly cost of living in South Africa varies depending on the city and lifestyle. Students spend between INR 42K – and INR 84K (ZAR 10,500 – 21,000) per month. This includes rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. Cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg have different cost structures but offer various affordable options. Budgeting wisely and utilising student discounts can help manage monthly expenses effectively.
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Q: What is the average apartment rent in South Africa for students?
Ans. Students’ average apartment rent in South Africa varies by location. In major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, shared apartments typically cost between INR 20K – and INR 40K (ZAR 5,000 – 10,000) per month. Renting in more affordable areas like Bellville or Braamfontein can lower costs. On-campus housing is also available and often more economical. In many cases, these rents include basic utilities, making them a good option for students.
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Q: How can students reduce their living expenses in South Africa?
Ans. Students can reduce their living expenses in South Africa by implementing several strategies. Cooking at home instead of eating out can significantly cut food costs. Utilising public transportation or student discounts for travel can save money. Shopping at local markets and buying in bulk can reduce grocery expenses. Sharing accommodation with other students also helps lower rental costs. By planning and budgeting carefully, students can manage their expenses effectively.
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Q: Are there affordable areas in Cape Town where you can live?
Ans. Yes, there are affordable areas in Cape Town where you can live. Neighbourhoods like Bellville, Parow, and Goodwood offer more budget-friendly accommodation options. These areas provide easy access to public transportation and essential services. Living in these neighbourhoods can significantly reduce your Cape Town cost of living. Students can find shared apartments or on-campus housing to manage expenses further.
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Q: What utility costs are included in the monthly cost of living in South Africa?
Ans. Utility costs are an important part of the monthly cost of living in South Africa. On average, utilities such as electricity, water, and internet can cost between INR 7.2K – and INR 13.6K (ZAR 1,800 – 3,400) per month. This varies depending on the size of the apartment and the number of people sharing it. Students can reduce these costs by conserving energy and using utilities efficiently. Many shared accommodations include basic utilities in the rent, which can help manage expenses.
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Q: How does public transportation affect the cost of living in Johannesburg?
Ans. Public transportation significantly impacts the cost of living in Johannesburg. Using buses and trains is much cheaper than owning a car or taxi. Monthly transportation costs typically range from INR 2.8K – to INR 6K (ZAR 700 – 1,500). Johannesburg’s Rea Vaya bus system and Metrorail offer affordable travel options. Students can save money by purchasing monthly passes and using public transport for daily commutes.
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Q: What is the cost of groceries included in the living expenses in South Africa?
Ans. Groceries account for a major part of living expenses in South Africa. Students spend between INR 8K and INR 16K (ZAR 2,000 – 4,000) per month on groceries. Shopping at local markets and budget-friendly stores like Shoprite and Pick n Pay can help reduce costs. Buying in bulk and planning meals in advance are effective ways to manage grocery expenses. Overall, grocery costs in South Africa are reasonable compared to many Western countries.
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Q: How does sharing accommodation help with living costs in South Africa?
Ans. Sharing accommodation is an effective way to manage the cost of living in South Africa. Students can significantly reduce their monthly expenses by splitting the rent and utilities. For example, a shared apartment in Johannesburg or Cape Town can cost between INR 20K – and INR 40K (ZAR 5,000 – 10,000) per month. Sharing also fosters a sense of community and helps students make new friends. This approach allows students to live in better locations at a lower cost.
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