Below you will find all steps you need to complete before you can travel and begin your studies at STADIO. These steps are universal for students on either the Bachelor or Master level.

If you need help or have questions regarding any of the steps, please contact Kerri-Lee Schneider at e-mail Kerri-lees@stadio.ac.za

This only applies to bachelor students staying in South-Africa for longer than 90 days

🏡 Johannesburg (Jozi)

• Priority area - focus on the Kensington or Bedfordview areas (close to Glenoaks School).

• Safety first - non-negotiable: only consider accommodation with 24/7 security, biometric access control, and CCTV.

• Booking tip - reputable national student accommodation providers like South Point or RISE Student Living often provide additional secure, purpose-built residences.

• The vibe - high-energy city living; proximity to school and personal transport (own/UBER) is key!

🏖️ Durban (The Bay)

• Priority Area - look for housing in the Glenwood or Manor Gardens suburbs or Umhlanga which is closer to campus and amenities.

• The weather/amenities - expect a hot climate. Look for residences with reliable air conditioning/fans and consider those with shared amenities like laundry and a pool.

• Booking tip - check university-accredited private accommodation lists for vetted options. 

• The vibe - beachside living combined with a strong local community feel!

⛰️ Cape Town (Mother City)

• Priority Area - The Southern Suburbs (e.g., Observatory, Rondebosch, Rosebank, Mowbray) are popular student hubs and often located within "safety zones."

• The Commute - Cape Town traffic can be heavy. Prioritise accommodation within walking distance of your campus or a reliable personal transport (own/UBER)/shuttle service.

• Booking tip - specialized providers like The Roost, NEST, or Proper Living offer modern, secure apartment-style living designed for students. Book very early (September-November for the following year) due to high demand.

• The vibe - scenic, cosmopolitan, and highly sought-after!

🗣️ Language & Socialising

• Greetings - South Africans are generally very friendly people! A simple "Howzit?" (How is it?) is a common greeting, often followed by a hug or handshake even with new friends.

• The Slang - master a few key terms. They are part of the fun!

  • "Shame": Used to express sympathy, pity, or admiration (e.g., "Ag, shame, that puppy is cute!").

  • "Lekker": Great, nice, tasty, or enjoyable.

  • "Robot": Traffic light.

  • "Ja, Nee": (Yes, No) A common phrase used to express agreement or acknowledgment.

• Embrace the Braai - if invited to a braai (barbecue), accept! It's the national social ritual. Ask your host if you should "bring a salad or a dop" (drink).

🛡️ Safety & Practicalities

• Vigilance is Key - unlike Norway, you must maintain a high level of awareness. Do not walk alone after dark in central areas or unfamiliar suburbs.

• Valuables - keep your valuables out of sight in public. 

• Transport - use reliable, trusted transport (e.g., university shuttles, established ride-share apps, or UBER). 

• Time - the local concept of time can be relaxed. "Just now" does not mean immediately—it means "sometime soon." Be patient, but be punctual yourself.

🌍 Culture & Attitude

• Show respect - South Africa is a diverse nation with 12 official languages and a complex history! Approach discussions about race, politics, and history with humility and an open mind. Don't be scared to speak or ask!

• The energy - be prepared for high-energy, direct, and engaging conversations, meeting our warmth with enthusiasm!