Residency Policy: Frequently Asked Questions

Briar Cliff University is providing this information to better inform students of our residency policy.

Why is there a residency requirement?
Are all students required to live on campus?
Is this residency policy new?
What are the modifications to the policy that I need to be aware of?
When did policy updates go into effect?
What if I was approved for off-campus housing prior to policy updates?
How do returning students sign up for campus housing?
How are students assigned rooms and roommates?
When do I need to complete the off-campus housing exemption application?
Can I move off campus during the academic year?
What is the benefit to this policy?
What if a student does not follow policy?

If you have additional questions or concerns, refer to the student handbook or contact the student development office.

Why is there a residency requirement?

Research suggests that students who live on campus have a stronger bond with the university community, are more likely to stay in college, and ultimately achieve higher academic goals. Most small colleges/universities have a similar residency policy.

Here are some of the benefits that were reported by Briar Cliff residential students (Quality of Life Survey, Spring 2014).

80% of all respondents indicated that on-campus housing made them feel they were a part of a community.
99% of all respondents indicated that they have met at least 2 people they are comfortable with on campus. Many commented they met best friends.
92% of all respondents indicated living on campus gave them access to floor, building and campus events.
91% felt safe on campus.

Are all students required to live on campus?

All traditional undergraduate students must reside in campus housing until they reach senior status (91 credit hours). Exemption is available for students living with their parents or legal guardian(s) in their permanent address within commuting distance (40 miles from campus).

Is this residency policy new?

No, in response to feedback that our policy was confusing we modified the policy to clarify residency requirements.

What are the modifications to the policy that I need to be aware of?

The change from an age requirement (21) for residency, to a credit hour (91 credit hours) requirement.
Addition of exemptions i.e.: Veteran status, commuting distance from permanent address, independent status.

When did policy updates go into effect?

The updates were effective as of Aug. 25, 2014, and communicated in the Briar Cliff University student handbook. The policy was posted in all residence halls on Briar Cliff campus.

What if I was approved for off-campus housing prior to policy updates?

Students that were living off campus prior to the policy updates (Fall 2014) have been grandfathered into the current policy.

How do returning students sign up for campus housing?

Returning students must complete a housing application a link to the application will be provided at housing informational meetings in February.

Room selection for fall housing will occur sometime during the month of March. If you meet the qualification and wish to apply for approval to live off campus, you can fill out an application for exemption. Applications for exemption to the residency policy are due March 1 in the Student Development Office for review. (Late exemption applications will not be accepted.)

How are students assigned rooms and roommates?

Rooms/roommates are assigned based on information gathered from housing applications. All first-year students will be housed in Toller or Alverno Halls, upper class students will primarily be placed in Baxter or Noonan halls.

When do I need to complete the off-campus housing exemption application?

Applications for exemption to the residency policy are due March 1 in the Student Development Office for review. Late exemption applications will not be accepted. All students not granted exemption must complete housing application and will be assigned housing.

Can I move off campus during the academic year?

No, students cannot break their housing contract and move off campus during the academic year (August – May). Students will be charged room and board for a full academic year.

What is the benefit to this policy?

This policy assists in building community on campus through academic and social interactions, supports our goals to continue to provide enhanced services and living/learning facilities.

What if a student does not follow policy?

Students not in compliance will be notified and the University will bill room and board to that student’s account.

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