Right after you commit (May 1-2), your college will unlock the housing application portal. This is your chance to shape where you live for year one. Housing assignments happen on a first-come, first-served basis for deposits, so act fast. You'll specify preferences: residential college, roommate requests, special needs, and meal plan.
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Log Into Housing Portal
- Check your college's student portal or housing department website
- Create housing portal account if not auto-populated
- Read all instructions and deadlines (vary by school)
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Complete Housing Questionnaire
- Room Type: Single, double, triple, or suite? (If available)
- Residential College/Hall: If your college offers themed housing, choose based on interests
- Special Requests: Quiet floor, accessible room, language immersion, etc.
- Be honest about your habits-lying leads to incompatible roommates
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Request a Roommate (Optional)
- Many colleges allow you to request a specific roommate
- Option A: Bring a friend from high school (often paired automatically)
- Option B: Request a stranger and let the algorithm match you (often works better)
- If requesting a friend, both must submit the same name to confirm
- Pro Tip: Requesting a stranger exposes you to diverse people-huge college benefit
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Select Your Meal Plan
- Unlimited plans: Best for freshmen with unpredictable schedules
- Block plans (e.g., 200 swipes/semester): For self-regulated eaters
- Declining meal plan: Only if living off-campus (rare for freshmen)
- Most colleges require first-year students to live on-campus with meal plans
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Choose Special Accommodations (If Applicable)
- Physical accessibility requirements
- Mobility device storage
- Medical equipment needs
- Dietary preferences (some colleges note in system, not guaranteed)
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Submit & Confirm
- Double-check all information before submitting
- Save confirmation email and number
- Screenshot or print for your records