Semester Study Abroad: Services: Living costs
The unit of currency in South Africa is the South African rand (ZAR or simply R).
Currently the US Dollar is trading in the following range with the South African Rand: US$1 : ZAR7.4 - ZAR8.30
To check the latest exchange rates with various currencies, visit one of the sites here. Please be advised that the rand has strengthened significantly against the US dollar, and applicants should constantly check the exchange rates and be aware of how much they require in the way of funds. Once in South Africa, all costs are in rand denominations; however, banks and foreign exchange bureaus are found in abundance.
Most ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) also accept foreign bank cards, debit and credit cards bearing either the "Cirrus" or "Maestro" logos. In other words, it is possible to withdraw cash from your savings or credit card accounts from our ATMs or at banks and forex bureaus.
NB: Speak to your bank prior to departure. We advise that you have your bank set a daily withdrawal limit of US$300 for your stay in South Africa. This would limit your financial loss should your card and PIN number be stolen.
Did you know? South Africa was the first country in the world to introduce ATMs!
For the latest exchange rate go to the Currency Converter website, www.xe.com.
| Expenses | Rand per month |
| Rent * | R2 900 |
| Living costs ** | R1 500 |
| Food | R2 000 |
| Transport | R1 000 |
| Pocket money | R1 000 |
| Books, notes | R500 |
| TOTAL | R8 900 per month |
* Rental is for a room in a shared, self-catering apartment. Note that some places may cost more or less. Typically rental per semester (5 months) is between
** Living costs include electricity, local telephone, laundry, cleaning and toiletries.
Note: Prices above exclude items such as mobile phones (which are extremely useful and highly recommended), car hire or car purchase, holiday trips undertaken, etc.