CampusKey Switches to Solar Power Across All Campuses

Posted on September 11, 2025September 11, 2025 by CampusKey

A Bold Step Towards Sustainable Student Living in South Africa

CampusKey is proud to announce the rollout of solar energy systems across all its student accommodation campuses, a major milestone in our journey toward creating a more sustainable, forward-thinking, and future-ready student lifestyle.

Starting in August 2025 with Stellenbosch and Pretoria, this is Phase 1 of our broader CampusKey sustainability strategy, and it’s just the beginning.

Why Solar Energy for Student Accommodation?

South African students are no strangers to the frustrations of load shedding. By installing solar power across our residences, CampusKey is eliminating that disruption, while empowering students to live more sustainably without having to change their daily routines.

This upgrade is not just about convenience. It’s about purpose.

What CampusKey Students Can Expect

Unlike traditional energy solutions, solar installations allow for clean, continuous power, even during national outages. For our students, this means:

Reliable electricity during load shedding
10-hour battery backup for essentials like:
Wi-Fi
Communal lighting
Access control
CCTV and security
Hallway lights

You’ll still be able to stream lectures, submit assignments, call home, and sleep soundly no matter what’s happening with the national grid.

“You won’t need to change a thing in your daily life—and that’s the point.”

The Environmental Benefits of Going Solar at CampusKey

At CampusKey, sustainability isn’t a buzzword, it’s a commitment. With this new solar system rollout, our student accommodation is now actively reducing its carbon footprint across all regions.

This isn’t just good for CampusKey—it’s a step forward for South Africa and the planet.

Which Campuses Are Included in the Solar Installation Rollout?

CampusKey’s solar strategy includes all campuses nationwide. Installation begins in Stellenbosch and Pretoria in August 2025, with the following locations to follow:

CK Potchefstroom
CK Bloemfontein
CK Cape Town
CK Gqeberha

Each building is fitted with a tailored solar solution based on its layout and needs, maximising both power efficiency and cost savings. This includes a full battery backup system for essential services and coverage optimised to each roof’s available space.

Partnering with the Best in Solar Energy

To bring this ambitious vision to life, we’ve partnered with leading solar energy providers across the country:

Nashua: Stellenbosch, Cape Town, Gqeberha
EcoXchange: Potchefstroom, Pretoria, Bloemfontein

These providers have worked closely with our facilities team to ensure high-performance installations built to last.

Solar Today. Smarter Tomorrow.

This solar project marks just the beginning of CampusKey’s long-term commitment to sustainable living in student accommodation. By collecting and analysing data from each campus installation, we’ll be able to optimise usage, reduce waste, and explore additional renewable strategies in future phases.

We’re not just keeping the lights on. We’re powering the next generation of changemakers, creators, and climate-conscious leaders—right from where they live.

Because better living starts with better choices—and we’re making all the right ones.

What Makes CampusKey Different? (Besides the Free WiFi and Really Good Coffee)

Posted on September 10, 2025September 10, 2025 by CampusKey

Let’s be real — these days, “student accommodation” can mean anything from a glorified shoebox with a sink, to a party hostel with WiFi. But at CampusKey, we’ve built something that actually works for students, for parents, and for our own team.

Here’s the secret: we don’t just rent rooms. We’ve built an entire internal engine that powers everything from check-in to check-out. It’s strategic, it’s thoughtful, and yes, it looks really good on Instagram. So what actually makes us different from every other building with a bed and a biometric lock? Buckle up.

The Experience Team (AKA The Fun Engineers)

We’ve got a whole team dedicated to student vibes. No, seriously. Our national Experience Team is responsible for the moments that make you say, “This doesn’t feel like res.” From braai nights and mental health check-ins to study sesions that somehow include pizza, these guys live and breathe Gen Z culture, and they know how to turn small moments into big memories.

“If it feels like a party and your mental health is improving… we probably planned it.”

In-House Architect + Experience Designer

While most buildings are designed by people in suits who haven’t met a student since 2003, ours are imagined by a team who actually gets student life.

We’re talking cozy study corners, social nooks, kitchens that aren’t depressing, and natural light in all the right places. The goal? Spaces that feel like home, without the questionable flatmate smells.

Our Graphic Designer Is On Speed Dial

You know that feeling when everything just looks right? That’s because we have an in-house graphic designer who makes sure our brand isn’t just consistent, it’s cool. Whether it’s a new rebooking campaign or the menu at CK Mini, every touchpoint is carefully crafted to make you double tap and maybe even screenshot.

Community Strategy That Actually Has a Strategy

Let’s face it: community doesn’t happen on its own. That’s why we’ve built a nationwide strategy that’s executed locally by our CCMCs (that’s Campus Community & Marketing Coordinators, but also Chaos Coordinators if we’re being honest).

They run events, build relationships, and create spaces where people actually get to know each other. Not in a cheesy forced-fun way, in a “hey, this is my second fam” kind of way. “Connection isn’t optional, it’s the whole point.”

Why Do We Do It All In-House?

Because speed, consistency and actual teamwork matter when you’re building something great. Outsourcing might save a few bucks, but doing it in-house means our teams talk to each other, react quickly, and create stuff that makes sense across architecture, design, experience and marketing. Also… no one loves a 3-week email thread with a freelancer about font sizes. Just saying.

Great student living isn’t just about the room. It’s about the rhythm, the feel, the people, the spark. We’re not building student accommodation. We’re building student experiences, from the inside out.

2026 CampusKey Applications: How (and When) to Stitch Your Story

Posted on September 3, 2025September 3, 2025 by CampusKey

New chapter. New campus. New roomies.

Whatever you’re planning for 2026, it all starts with finding a place to call home and we’re here to make that part ridiculously easy.

Applications for 2026 open on 4 September 2025, and trust us you’ll want to be first in line. Why? Because the early bird gets the best room… and the best view… and the perks. Lots of perks.

So, How Do You Apply?

We’ve broken it down into six easy steps, no complicated forms, no ancient portals, no smoke signals required.

1. Head to CampusKey.co.za

Your story starts here. Our homepage is where the magic begins.

2. Choose your location

Pretoria, Stellenbosch, Gqeberha, Potchefstroom, Cape Town, or Bloemfontein? Each one has its own flavour, vibe, and inside jokes. Pick the one that matches your energy.

3. Choose your room type

Are you a Socialiser who lives for group vibes? An Explorer who loves your space but ventures out often? Or an Independent who likes your own world (and your own WiFi password)?

Whatever your vibe, we’ve got a room type that fits.

4. Click “Apply Now” & Create your CK profile

This one’s easy. It’s the button that does what it says. Tell us a bit about yourself (don’t worry, it’s not a job interview). Then fill in the rest of your details and hit submit.

6. Pay your admin fee, deposit, AND first installment

This step seals the deal. Until you’ve paid, your room is still up for grabs, so don’t ghost us after clicking submit. You’ll receive all payment instructions once you’ve applied.

A Quick Look at What’s Included

Not to brag (okay, maybe a little), but your CampusKey stay comes with:

✅ Fully furnished private bedroom (bed, mattress, desk, cupboard space & more)

✅ Water, electricity & uncapped WiFi (no extra bills, ever)

✅ 24/7 security & support team

✅ Weekly socials, workshops, and CKonnections events

✅ Gym, co-working spaces, study zones, kitchens, and all the good stuff

✅ On-site café, laundry, couriers & more (depending on your location)

Basically, it’s like adulting, but easier.

Applications open 4 September 2025. Set your reminder. Save the link. Text your future roomie.

And get ready to stitch your story, your way.

📌 Apply Now when the clock strikes 4 September.

Smart Money Moves as a Student (for Real)

Posted on July 29, 2025July 29, 2025 by CampusKey

Budgeting sounds boring – until you realise it’s the key to affording late-night pizza and that last-minute Uber to campus.

Here’s your no-fluff guide to keeping your cash flow cute, your lifestyle balanced, and your bank account in the green.

Step 1: Know What’s Coming In

Before you can budget, know your vibe (aka your income):

Study allowance, bursaries, part-time gigs
Scholarship money (break it down monthly, don’t get too excited all at once)
Help from family or holiday job savings

Spoiler: If you don’t know your income, your budget is a guessing game.

Step 2: Track Where It’s Going

Start tracking your spend this week. Yes, all of it. Yes, even that iced coffee. Essentials: rent, food, transport, data, laundry Extras: takeaways, Netflix, club entries, “just one more” Mr D order

Five minutes. Once a week. Big difference.

Step 3: Weekly Budget = Big Brain Energy

Don’t wait for your card to decline to figure out your money plan. Set a weekly split:

What	How Much
Essentials	50–70%
Fun & Social	15–30%
Savings & Extras	10–20%

This way, you’re sorted for rent and still vibing at the braai.

Need help getting started? Check out this YouTube budgeting guide for students: https://youtu.be/UGW-vZDSd2k?si=lSbDovXIjTcAsIYT.

Step 4: Pick Your Budgeting Style

Your money, your method:

Zero-based: Every rand gets a job. Nothing floats.
50/30/20: Easy-peasy. Needs, wants, savings.
Cash jar method: Pull out your “fun money” in cash. No overspending, no regrets.

Whether it’s an app, a Google Sheet, or a handwritten list on your mirror, just do you.

Step 5: Rework Weekly

Life happens. One week you’re chilling, the next your friend’s birthday hits your wallet hard.

Adjust every Sunday—reset, recalculate, repeat.

Bonus Tips That Work

Use Checkers Sixty60 and catch those student specials
Split your streaming subs with your crew (we see you, Netflix sharers 👀)
Cook in batches = more meals, less cost
Download VarsityVibe for legit student discounts
Even R50/week saved = R2 600 in a year. Wild.

CK’s 3-Step Budget Challenge:

Track your cash for 7 days
Build a weekly budget and stick to it
Reassess on Sunday—adjust where needed

A budget doesn’t mean no fun—it means more freedom.

More freedom to say yes to nights out, trips home, or spontaneous ice cream with the squad.

Let CampusKey support your glow-up—budgeting hacks included.

The Ultimate Guide to South Africa Student Accommodation in 2025

Posted on July 17, 2025July 22, 2025 by CampusKey

Why South African Student Accommodation Is More Than Just a Room

South Africa is a top destination for students, both local and international. But finding the right student accommodation in South Africa is about more than just where you sleep. It’s about lifestyle, safety, convenience, and community.

At CampusKey, we know what students need: fully furnished rooms, all-inclusive rent, fast WiFi, great locations, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s everything you need to know about finding student accommodation that works for youin South Africa.

What to Look for in South African Student Accommodation

1. Location Is Key

Whether you’re studying in Stellenbosch, Cape Town, Gqeberha, Bloemfontein, Pretoria or Potchefstroom—living close to campus and the city centre saves time, money and stress. CampusKey locations are always central, walkable, and connected to your student life.

2. All-Inclusive Amenities

Not all accommodation options in South Africa include things like water, electricity, WiFi or security. CampusKey offers all of this—and more. That means no hidden costs, and way less admin.

3. Safety & Security

Student safety is non-negotiable. Look for accommodation that offers 24/7 security, controlled access, and on-site support. CampusKey properties are purpose-built for peace of mind.

4. Study & Social Balance

You need more than a bed—you need spaces to thrive. Our student accommodation includes:

Quiet, modern study areas
24-hour fully equipped gyms
Social lounges and rooftops with killer views
Events, mentorship, and support networks

Why Students Choose CampusKey for South African Student Accommodation

We’re not just another rental – we’re a lifestyle brand built around Gen-Z students.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Private, modern rooms with options to match your lifestyle (Socializer, Explorer, Platinum)
Fast, uncapped WiFi and laundry facilities at every site
Events, mentorship and wellness support through weekly events
Community and connection—live with like-minded students and build lifelong friendships

Thousands of local and international students choose CampusKey but it’s more than a place to stay—it’s a place to grow.

How to Book South Africa Student Accommodation with CampusKey

Booking your student accommodation in South Africa should be easy. At CampusKey, it’s just a few easy steps:

Choose your city and room type
Apply online & make payment
Get allocated and start prepping for check-in
Enjoy your new space, new people, and new chapter

Whether you’re a first-year UCT student, an exchange student in Stellenbosch, or wrapping up a postgrad in GQ, your student accommodation in South Africa should support your success.

CampusKey is here to make that happen—comfortably, safely, and with a little bit of luxury too.

Ready to find your place?

Explore our locations and find out what the CampusKey “difference” really means.

We’ve Got the Perfect Room for Every Student

Posted on July 9, 2025July 9, 2025 by CampusKey

Not all students are the same, so why should their rooms be? At CampusKey, we’ve made sure there’s a room for every type of student vibe.

Whether you’re stepping into your first year, deep into your postgrad hustle, or just want your own quiet corner with zero drama, we’ve got a space that feels like it was made for you. Because it kinda was. This isn’t just a place to crash. It’s a place to live your way.

The Independent: You, Yourself, and… You

Need your own bathroom? Your own kitchen? Your own everything? Independent rooms are fully private, self-contained, and solo-living at its finest.

No sharing. No waiting. No weird fridge politics.

Perfect for postgrads, mature students, or anyone who’s done the house-share thing and wants total control over their space and schedule.

If that sounds like your vibe, explore our Independent rooms here.

The Explorer: Just the Right Amount of Company

You love your own space, but you’re not about complete isolation. Explorer rooms hit that perfect middle ground: a private bedroom and bathroom for you, and a shared kitchen for low-key convos or spontaneous snack swaps.

You get peace when you need it and a bit of community when you want it. No chaos, no FOMO.

Sound like your fit? Check out the Explorer room options.

The Socializer: Bring the Vibes

If you’re all about people, late-night chats, shared playlists, and house dinners—this one’s for you. Socialiser rooms offer a private bedroom, but share everything else.

Whether you opt for a two-bed duo or a full-on ten-room social squad, this setup is designed for community, chaos (of the fun kind), and creating uni memories that you’ll actually remember.

Explore all Socialiser options and get ready to meet your new best friends.

One Vibe, Three Room Styles

Whichever room you go for, you’re never missing out on the CampusKey perks:

Fully furnished, totally move-in ready
Uncapped WiFi (no cap)
24/7 security—so you (and your mom) can chill
Gyms, social lounges, and spaces to vibe or vanish
Study zones where you can actually focus
A community that feels like home, even if you’re far from yours

No leases with hidden extras. No dodgy landlords. Just good energy and a key to your new life.

Time to Find Your Fit

We’ve got purpose-built student digs in all the top cities—Stellenbosch, Cape Town, Gqeberha, Potchefstroom, and Bloemfontein—and every room is designed to level up your student journey.

Whether you’re an Explorer, a Socializer, or fully Independent, there’s a space for you.

Explore our locations, Compare rooms, and apply now to live your way.

How Different Living Environments Impact Academic Success: The CampusKey Advantage

Posted on May 5, 2025April 29, 2025 by CampusKey

The environment in which students live, plays a pivotal role in shaping their academic journeys. Factors such as safety, community support, and access to resources can significantly influence educational outcomes.

The Influence of Living Environments on Academic Performance

Research has consistently shown that a student’s living environment can either bolster or hinder their academic success. Key aspects include:

Safety and Security: A secure living space allows students to focus on their studies without undue stress. Environments with high crime rates or inadequate safety measures can lead to anxiety and distraction, negatively impacting academic performance.
Community and Social Support: Living in a supportive community fosters a sense of belonging, which is crucial for motivation and engagement. Students who feel connected to their peers and surroundings are more likely to participate in academic and extracurricular activities.
Access to Resources: Proximity to libraries, study spaces, and academic support services enhances learning opportunities. Environments that facilitate easy access to these resources contribute to better educational outcomes.

CampusKey: Creating Optimal Living Environments for Academic Excellence

At CampusKey, we understand the profound impact that living conditions have on a student’s academic journey. Our residences are meticulously designed to provide environments that promote success:

Secure and Comfortable Spaces: Our facilities are equipped with advanced security systems, ensuring that students feel safe at all times. Comfortable living spaces are designed to be conducive to both relaxation and study.
Vibrant Communities: We cultivate a sense of community through various programs and events, encouraging peer support and networking. This communal atmosphere fosters collaboration and personal growth.
Accessibility to Academic Resources: Strategically located near educational institutions, CampusKey residences offer easy access to campus facilities, libraries, and study centers, ensuring that academic support is always within reach.

The living environment is a critical component of a student’s academic success. By prioritizing safety, community, and resource accessibility, CampusKey creates spaces where students can thrive academically and personally.

For more insights into how living environments influence academic outcomes, consider exploring the following resources:

These articles delve deeper into the various factors that affect educational achievement and how supportive living environments can make a significant difference.

The CK Club: Your All-Access Pass to CK

Posted on April 9, 2025April 9, 2025 by CampusKey

Ever walked past a CampusKey building, seen the energy, and thought, “How do I get in on this?” Now you can. Welcome to the CK Club—your exclusive access to CampusKey’s world-class spaces, top-tier amenities, and vibrant community, without needing to be a full-time resident.

Whether you’re a student looking for the perfect study environment, a young professional needing a productive workspace, or someone who just enjoys the CampusKey atmosphere, this membership is for you.

What is the CK Club?

The CK Club is a membership program that gives non-residents access to the best parts of CampusKey. Think of it as a VIP pass to a premium co-living, co-working, and social experience.

It’s designed for those who:

Want to study in a distraction-free zone instead of noisy coffee shops
Need unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi for serious productivity
Want a fully equipped gym that’s open 24/7
Enjoy community, connection, and engaging social events
Appreciate safe, convenient facilities with secure parking and on-site laundry

If you want a lifestyle upgrade, this is it.

Why Did We Create the CK Club?

At CampusKey, we believe in more than just a stay—we create an experience. But we kept hearing from people who weren’t full-time residents yet still wanted access to our spaces and amenities. So we thought, why not open the doors to more people?

The CK Club was created to offer:

Flexibility – No long-term leases, just month-to-month memberships that fit your lifestyle
Accessibility – Access to gym, study spaces, Wi-Fi, laundry, and more in an inspiring environment
Community – CampusKey isn’t just a place to live, it’s a network of people who push you to grow, learn, and thrive

Why Do You Need the CK Club?

If you’ve ever struggled to find a quiet place to work, spent too much on coffee just for Wi-Fi, or wanted a gym that actually fits your schedule, this is your solution.

Here’s what you get when you join the CK Club:

Access to CK Spaces – Work, study, or relax in beautifully designed lounges and work-friendly areas
Uncapped High-Speed Wi-Fi – No slow connections, no interruptions
24hr HIIT Gym – Work out when it suits you, no gym-closing excuses
CK Mini Café – Exclusive access to on-site café at select locations
Laundry Facilities – 24/7 access to high-end machines
Safe Parking – No more parking struggles
Social & Community Events – Meet like-minded people through CKonnections and other social events
Exclusive Deals – Special offers on CK ShortStays, iStore products, and more

CK Club Membership Options

Choose the package that suits your lifestyle:

Essential: Access to CK Spaces, Gyms, and Wi-Fi at one location
Premium: Everything in Essential, plus laundry facilities and access to any CK location
Deluxe: The ultimate CK experience—includes all Premium perks, plus parking, exclusive discounts, and early access to CK applications

How to Join?

Simply sign up online and start experiencing the best of CampusKey.

Choose your membership
Get access to CampusKey’s premium spaces
Enjoy a next-level student or professional lifestyle

If you’re ready to unlock the full CampusKey experience, head over to our CK Club page and sign up today.

How to Make Friends When You Move Abroad for Your Studies

Posted on March 26, 2025March 26, 2025 by CampusKey

Moving abroad for university is a wild, exciting, and slightly nerve-wracking adventure. You’re trading the familiar for the unknown—new places, new routines, and, most importantly, new people. Making friends as a student can feel a little daunting, but it’s also what turns your university experience from ‘just classes’ to ‘the best years of your life.’ At CampusKey, we make meeting people easy, fun, and totally stress-free with our built-in community, events, and spaces designed for connection.

How to Make Friends at CampusKey

There are so many reasons students move to a new city—studies, adventure, a fresh start, or maybe just a deep love for amazing coffee spots. Whatever brought you here, the reality is that stepping into a new environment is a huge growth moment. It’s exciting but can also bring waves of homesickness and the occasional ‘what am I even doing here’ feeling. That’s where friendships come in. They turn a new place into home, bring joy to the day-to-day, and give you a solid support system when you need it most.

At CampusKey, we don’t just give you a room; we give you a built-in community. From vibrant social spaces to our legendary CKonnections events, you’ll never run out of opportunities to meet your people. Because let’s be real—university life is way better with friends.

Here’s how to make friends and feel at home ASAP:Jump into CKonnections

Forget awkward introductions—we’ve got the perfect icebreakers lined up for you. CKonnections is our weekly series of events designed to bring students together in the most fun and natural way possible. Whether it’s game nights, sports, skills workshops, or massive family feasts, these events are all about making connections without the pressure. The best part? You’ll find a mix of new faces and familiar ones, making it super easy to build friendships.

Check out our upcoming events and see the friend-making in action on our Instagram and TikTok.

Friends Who Sweat Together, Stay Together

If you’re into fitness (or just need an accountability buddy to get moving), you’ll love our on-site gyms. From high-energy HIIT workouts to yoga sessions that leave you feeling Zen, working out together is a great way to bond. Plus, nothing builds a friendship faster than post-workout smoothies and shared muscle soreness.

Make Friends Around Food

There’s something magical about bonding over a good meal. At CampusKey, we host family-style feasts where you can sit down, share stories, and enjoy incredible food together. These communal dinners are perfect for meeting new people in a relaxed setting—plus, who doesn’t love free food?

Turn Daily Meals Into Shared Moments

Our shared kitchens are another underrated friendship hub. Cooking together, swapping recipes, and even hosting themed dinner nights make the kitchen a great space to bond. Pro tip: Whip up a dish from your home country and invite new friends to try it—it’s a guaranteed conversation starter.

Don’t Forget…

Follow us on Instagram and TikTok to keep up with all the latest events and community moments.
Join the CKonnections events—it’s the easiest way to meet people and make memories.
Be yourself. The best friendships come naturally, so stay open, say yes to new experiences, and let the connections happen.

Moving abroad is a big leap, but with CampusKey, you’ll never have to go at it alone. Your people are waiting—now go find them!

The Experience Team (AKA The Fun Engineers)

In-House Architect + Experience Designer

Our Graphic Designer Is On Speed Dial

Community Strategy That Actually Has a Strategy

Why Do We Do It All In-House?

New chapter. New campus. New roomies.

So, How Do You Apply?

A Quick Look at What’s Included

Why South African Student Accommodation Is More Than Just a Room

What to Look for in South African Student Accommodation

Why Students Choose CampusKey for South African Student Accommodation

How to Book South Africa Student Accommodation with CampusKey

Time to Find Your Fit

What is the CK Club?

Why Did We Create the CK Club?

Why Do You Need the CK Club?

CK Club Membership Options

How to Join?

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