Get stories and expert advice on all things related to college and parenting.
Know Your Rights: A Student Advocacy Primer
CollegiateParent
As fall semester gets under way, it’s already time to plan for next year’s housing — especially if you intend to move off campus. To avoid scrambling at the last minute, make a note of these important dates and action items.
→ Research off-campus housing options, starting with resources on your school’s Housing website (they will have tips and possibly a rental database).
→ Make a budget.
→ Ask upper-level students when apartments fill up and which neighborhoods/buildings they recommend (or which have a bad rep).
→ Talk to potential roommates; the university may offer roommate matching through the Housing website.
→ Tour properties and explore areas where you might want to live. Pre-leasing may already be taking place!
If you’ll live on campus next year: Find out when housing applications open for returning students.
→ Finalize your budget and confirm your roommate(s).
→ Continue to tour properties virtually if you haven’t pre-leased.
→ Understand how leases work and the commitment you are making (9-month, full-year, etc.), and what is and isn’t allowed — especially what you’ll need to do to get the full security deposit back.
If you’ll live on campus: Check out the residence halls and on-campus apartments available to upper-level students. Themed housing may be an appropriate option.
→ If you’ve found the property you want, sign a lease to secure your spot!
→ If not, keep up the hunt while you’re on break.
Spring
→ Sign a lease if you haven’t already!
→ Make a plan for moving from your residence hall to the new rental or for storing your belongings over the summer.
If you’ll live on campus: Complete the housing process with the university — apply during the priority submission window in order to get your top choice. Apply for summer on-campus housing if you plan to register for summer classes.
→ As you move into your off-campus home, prepare to be a good tenant and neighbor.
→ Understand your rights as a renter.
If you’ll live on campus: Building assignments for on-campus residences will typically be posted in early summer with a period during which you can request a change.
