Brightening Futures Through Student Living

Access to safe, affordable student accommodation is crucial for academic success.

Khanya provides financial support for South African students — particularly those in the ‘missing middle’ — so they can focus on achieving their educational goals without the burden of housing insecurity.

Access to affordable and safe accommodation remains a significant barrier for many South African students — especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds and the “missing middle.” Khanya aims to bridge this gap by providing financial support for student housing. Our commitment is to empower students to pursue higher education with peace of mind, knowing that they have secure and accessible living spaces.

Our Mission

To alleviate the financial burden of student accommodation for financially excluded, underprivileged, and high-performing students—providing them the opportunity to achieve their educational goals and unlock their full potential.

Our Vision

To create a future where every student has the opportunity to succeed, supported by safe and affordable housing, unlocking their potential to excel academically and make a lasting impact on their communities at large, as well as globally.

Why Student Accommodation Matters

Having a safe and convenient place to live is more than just a roof over one’s head — it’s an essential component of academic success. When students are free from long commutes, unsafe living conditions, and constant financial worries about rent, they can focus on their studies and personal development.
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Students living in secure, well-managed residences show higher retention and graduation rates.
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Reduced stress around basic housing needs fosters better mental health and academic performance.
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Access to well-located accommodation often leads to greater campus engagement and a richer student experience.

Who We Support

Our Targeted Beneficiaries

The Missing Middle

  • Students whose household incomes marginally exceed the threshold for state-sponsored financial aid (like NSFAS), yet they still cannot afford basic accommodation needs.
  • This group is consistently underserved and requires financial support.

Top-Ups for NSFAS Students

  • Even with NSFAS funding, many students face shortfalls.
  • Our top-up funding model complements existing support by covering the remaining cost of accommodation and essential living expenses.

Other

  • Our top-up funding model complements existing support by covering the remaining cost of accommodation and essential living expenses.

 

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be enrolled in an accredited South African university (or selected colleges).
  • Studying in a field of national importance.
  • Minimum average of 60% aggregate in prior year’s academic results.
  • Only open to students from second year onwards.

How Funding Works

1
Application
Students fill out an online application form and submit financial and academic documents.
28 July to 11 August 2026
2
Assessment
Applications are reviewed against our eligibility criteria (financial need, academic standing, etc.).
12 August - 15 October 2026
3
Approval
Approved students receive confirmation of allocated funding for accommodation and (where applicable) other top-up needs like transport or study materials. Subject to Ts&Cs
16 October - 31 December 2026
4
Support
Khanya monitors academic progress to ensure continued eligibility and success.
1 January - 31 December 2027