Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Arrive

What is the procedure for applying for housing?

  1. Your enrollment deposit will also serve as your housing deposit. After paying their enrollment deposit, new students can access the housing application.
  2. You can access the New Student Housing Application on the Res Life Portal. Fill out the housing application, which includes the housing contract, application, roommate profile, and the selection of a dining plan. The housing application deadline for new students is in June.
  3. If you are under 18, an application verification will be sent to the email listed to the parent/guardian you listed first on your application. Your parent/guardian must verify your ability to sign the contract found within the housing application process.
  4. The Residential Life Office will process your application, and your room assignment will be sent to you in mid-July. At this time, you will find out who your roommate(s) will be.

What should I bring with me, and what should I not bring with me?

Please refer to our Packing Guide for a comprehensive list of items that we recommend you consider bringing with you (and NOT bringing with you).

Can I have a pet?

Because of health and sanitation issues and the possibility of other residents' allergic reactions, pets are not permitted to be kept, fed, or harbored in the residence halls. These issues may interfere with a student's right to a clean environment conducive to study.

Animals are not permitted in public areas of residence halls. The housing of cats, dogs, rabbits, ferrets, snakes, and any illegal animals in the residence halls is prohibited. The only pets permitted are fish and one of the following animals per student: gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, mice, and rats. These small, caged, nonpoisonous animals and fish are permitted in the student's room if the student completes and submits the pet registration form and gains advance approval from the Residential Life Office and their roommates before the pet arrives on campus. A roommate's request to live in a pet-free environment supersedes the student's right to have a pet in their room.

Dogs, cats, snakes, rabbits, and ferrets are forbidden in any residence hall facility.

Water-filled aquariums of no more than 10-gallon capacity may be maintained for fish, snails, and crustaceans. (Turtles, amphibians, other reptiles, and other aquarium-dwelling animals are prohibited.) All animals, including fish, must be taken home over semester breaks. The University will not be held responsible for the safety of fish or any animal during electrical power failures.

All pets found in student housing that violate this policy will be immediately removed or confiscated and moved to a local shelter or the Humane Society. Students will be charged a $50 fine for violation of this policy and charged for any damages to the facility. Residential Life reserves the right to determine if an animal is appropriate.

Can I bring my car to campus?

Absolutely. Any student may bring a vehicle to campus. All vehicles parked on campus must be registered with our Department of Public Safety and display a permit for safety and security. Visit the Parking Policies page for more information.

What is a resident assistant? What is a moderator?

A Resident Assistant (RA) is an upperclassman who lives on your floor and serves as students' first point of contact. This person was selected through an application and screening process and has been given training in various issues facing college students. RAs must be on their floors regularly and get to know each of their residents.

A Moderator is an upperclassman student who supervises a Small Living Unit (SLU). A Moderator is a student staff member who is also a contact person for students with concerns. Freshmen students do not typically live in a Small Living Unit but are encouraged to attend programs and participate in SLU initiatives.