Selection process

4.1 The LLL programme is a targeted residential and immersive experiential learning opportunity for senior students to actively engage to develop a deeper understanding of social cohesion, innovation, and impact. Students selected for the LLL programme are required to reside in LLL housing. Selection for the programme therefore provides access to accommodation.

4.2 Students may access LLL placement through two parallel pathways:

4.2.1 Application pathway — Students are invited to apply annually and are selected based on high academic performance, diversity considerations, and other published criteria as annually determined and aligned to the outcomes of the programme.

4.2.2 Pre-selection pathway — Up to 50% of available LLL places may be filled through pre-selection initiatives approved by the Centre for Student Life and Learning (CSLL). These initiatives may include but are not limited to:

• Innovation challenges (e.g., Idea Smash Innovation)
• Competitions aligned with social cohesion, impact, or leadership
• Nominations by faculty deans or academic departments
• Other sourcing methods determined by CSLL to broaden diversity of interests, talents, and experiential backgrounds

4.2.3 The pre-selection pathway is not an application process. Candidates identified through this pathway are not required to submit a standard application but must meet the same minimum eligibility criteria for student housing as published in the placement policy and management guidelines for placement unless there is a specific exception in these guidelines, and participate in a placement confirmation interview to determine whether the candidate fits with the LLL programme. The LLL Office reserves the right to determine which pre-selection initiatives to recognise and how many candidates to draw from each initiative. Decisions taken under the pre-selection pathway are final and not subject to challenge as an application refusal.

4.2.4 Regardless of pathway, the final LLL cohort must collectively reflect the diversity profile set out in clause 4.4 (gender, race, faculty of study, nationality). The LLL panel is responsible for balancing both pathways to achieve this diversity.

4.2.5 The LLL Office may also invite potential individuals to apply, provided they meet published criteria.

4.2.6 Applications from students at other tertiary institutions may be considered if the applicant meets the programme and placement criteria based on experience and talent, subject to proof of full-time enrolment elsewhere and approval by the LLL panel.

4.3 Given the special nature of the LLL programme, students may take part for a maximum of two consecutive years. In exceptional circumstances — where retention of talent is deemed in the interest of the programme’s objectives (not for accommodation purposes) — a third year may be approved by the LLL panel in writing.

4.4 The diversity profile that is pursued for the LLL Initiative plays a determining role. Applicants are thus placed according to the diversity needs of the overall LLL Initiative. The diversity profile includes the categories of gender, race, faculty of study and nationality.

4.5 Senior students apply for allocation in the LLL houses directly with the LLL Office. The applicants are considered for allocation after applications are reviewed by a panel as appointed by the LLL Office.

4.6 To qualify for placement in an LLL house, a student must be registered for a full-time degree programme at Stellenbosch University.

4.6.1 This includes students who are enrolling at Stellenbosch University for the first time at a senior level (e.g., transfer students, postgraduate students, or students who completed their undergraduate degree elsewhere). Previous study at Stellenbosch University is not a requirement.

4.6.2 Students who are not registered for a full-time degree at Stellenbosch University do not qualify.

4.7 The maximum age for students placed in LLL houses is 26 years.

4.9 Programme timing and participation

4.9.1 The LLL programme academic and co-curricular activities commence in early January. Placements finalised after March will generally not benefit the individual and are disruptive to the programme and will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

4.10 Re-allocation for non-alignment

4.10.1 If a participant is not actively engaging in programme activities, violates house or programme rules repeatedly, or appears to be using the placement solely for accommodation without developmental commitment, the continued participation may be referred under rule 12 of the management guidelines for not contributing to a healthy student community.