Assignments Philosophy
Research has demonstrated that first-year students who live on campus tend to receive higher GPAs, persist to an on-time graduation and get a job in their chosen field after graduating. Based on this, we will do all we can to prioritize first-year students in the assignments process, with every First Year Student receiving a housing assignment if they apply by June 15. In general, assignments are made in the order in which applications and initial payment/security deposit are received. We try our best to accommodate roommate and building preferences, with the understanding that the earlier you apply, the more likely we can accommodate one or both preferences. Roommate preferences requests supersede building preferences requests. While first-year students are guaranteed housing if they apply by June 15, applying early is the best way to position yourself to receive one of your top housing and/or roommate preferences.
Due to the record number of campus housing applications submitted by February 1 for the 2025-2026 academic year, we anticipate several buildings will fill up during the room selection process. Room selection times are assigned based on the time and date you submitted your housing application.
If you do not see the choice you want in the self-selection process (this means that option is not available), please select your next choice. Please note that a room change request process will occur during the summer for students who already have an assignment. Room change requests will be accommodated into vacant spaces based on cancellations and other room change requests as spaces become available.
In general, February 1 is the “priority cut-off date.” This means the following:
- If you apply by this date and don’t have a roommate preference, we guarantee you an assignment in one of your top three building preferences (you must have listed three separate preferences).
- If you and a preferred roommate apply by this date, we guarantee the two of you will receive an assignment in one of your top three building preferences (must have listed three separate preferences).
Applications received after February 1 will be assigned to halls on a space-available basis. A wait list may be started at any date due to the high demand for on-campus living.
First-year students
Approximately 2,700 beds of the 3,200 available are held for first-year students. Please keep in mind the University prioritizes housing for incoming first-year students, as research has demonstrated this aids in student success. Many of these students join our community from beyond Reno, so living on-campus assists with their transition to college and campus life.
To ensure every student has access to healthy food options, first-year students living on campus are required to select a meal plan.
Sophomore and above students
If you’re a current residential student, transfer student, or non-traditional student, you have the option to live in most of our suite and apartment style housing options on a space-available basis. If you apply before the priority deadline (and have a security deposit and pre-payment on file), you can select roommates through your Housing Portal and then your housing assignment for the next academic year.
After the priority deadline, housing options may be limited, but we will make every effort to help you find a space in these locations or alternative options located close to campus.
Transfer students
Living on campus is also a great way to meet people and get connected to the University, in a safe and convenient location. The ÍƼöÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ offers two main options for transfer students: Sierra Hall and the Transfer Living Learning Community in Canada Hall.
To qualify to live in one of these communities as a transfer student you must:
- Have graduated high school at least one full academic year prior and completed college credits OR
- Be 20 years of age or older OR
- Have lived in a college/university Housing Residence Hall for one year
Graduate students
Graduate students are welcome to apply for a space or apartment at Ponderosa Village Apartments since most other housing is reserved for undergraduate students.