Choosing where to live while studying is one of the biggest decisions students (and their parents) make. Whether you’re staying close to home or moving to a brand-new city, the kind of accommodation you choose can have a real impact on your university experience.
While traditional university residences have long been the go-to for many first-year students, private student accommodation (PSA) is growing fast—and for good reason.
Here’s why more and more students are choosing purpose-built private accommodation like CampusKey over standard university housing.
1. Designed With the Student Lifestyle in Mind
University residences often occupy older buildings retrofitted for student living. While that can come with charm, it often means sacrificing modern comfort and functionality.
In contrast, private accommodation providers like CampusKey design their spaces specifically for student life—from layout to tech infrastructure. Think ensuite rooms, high-speed WiFi, modern kitchens, biometric access, and social hubs built for connection.
These aren’t hand-me-down dorms—they’re fully integrated living spaces created for how students live today.
2. Community Without Compromise
University residences tend to focus on quantity—getting as many students in as possible. That can mean crowded kitchens, shared bathrooms, and not much in the way of privacy.
Private student accommodation aims to strike a better balance. At CampusKey, for example, students enjoy the perks of community-driven living—shared lounges, game rooms, gyms, and social events—but with the comfort of their own private space.
You still get the community vibe—without the chaos.
3. More Independence, Still Fully Supported
In traditional uni digs, support often ends at reception. Maintenance might take days, and students are expected to navigate their first year with little day-to-day help.
Purpose-built private residences, however, often offer 24/7 support, on-site staff, and fast maintenance response times. At CampusKey, there’s always someone on hand—whether you need help with your room or just a friendly face.
It’s about building a sense of independence, but with a strong safety net.
4. Better Facilities, Built-In Convenience
Most university halls offer the basics: a bed, desk, shared kitchen, maybe a common area.
Private student accommodation ups the game with features like:
- Fully equipped gyms
- Laundry services
- Study zones
- Secure biometric access
- On-site cafés (like CK Mini at CampusKey)
- Smart TVs and high-speed streaming
It’s not about luxury—it’s about making life easier, so students can focus on what really matters.
5. Wellbeing at the Centre
With the growing pressures of student life, mental health and wellbeing have never been more important.
Purpose-built accommodation providers are more attuned to these needs than ever before. At CampusKey, for instance, everything from building design to event programming is crafted to support student wellness—offering quiet spaces, opportunities to connect, and professional support when needed.
It’s not just accommodation—it’s a lifestyle that supports both academic performance and emotional balance.
6. Greater Choice and Flexibility
University housing can be competitive, limited, and often only available for first-years. Many students are forced to search elsewhere after their first year—often with little guidance.
Private accommodation offers more freedom: various room types, longer-term stays, and consistent quality across years. With CampusKey locations in Stellenbosch, Cape Town, Bloemfontein, and Potchefstroom, students can choose what works best for their lifestyle, their budget, and their future plans.
It’s flexible, consistent, and future-proof.
The Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to student accommodation. University residences can offer a familiar, often social experience—especially for those just starting out. But for students looking for more privacy, comfort, and support, private student accommodation offers a modern alternative.
At CampusKey, we’re proud to offer students the best of both worlds: community, independence, security, and the tools to thrive. Because student life should be more than survival—it should be something to remember.
Explore more about how CampusKey is redefining student living:
