Shared living, shared burdens: A case of the university of Venda exploring the impact of cohabitation on students’ financial stability

The rising costs of higher education have placed increasing financial pressure on students, with living expenses often becoming a significant burden. Many students struggle to balance tuition fees, academic responsibilities, and personal living costs, leading to financial stress and even delayed graduation. The aim of the research was to explore how sharing living expenses through cohabitation can alleviate financial burdens for students and offer broader economic benefits. The study investigated the financial advantages of cohabitation, focusing on how shared costs, such as rent, utilities, and food, contribute to financial stability and improved quality of life for students. The study adopted qualitative approach to get an in-depth exploration of how sharing living expense alleviate the financial burdens of students. Through interviews with students who share living spaces, the research examined how cohabitation influences the financial well-being, academic performance, and overall mental health of students. The study explored the impact of shared living arrangements on fostering social connections and emotional support, which may further enhance students' academic and personal development. The study has provided valuable insights for students, higher education institutions, and policymakers seeking to address student financial burdens and improve student well-being through more affordable housing options. Key Words:Cohabitation, Alleviate, Students, Economic Benefits