Frequently Asked Questions
Applying for Housing & Eligibility
-
How do I apply to live on campus?
The housing application is an online application that can be accessed . There is a $40 application fee assessed at the time you apply in addition to a $200 prepayment. At the end of the application, you will be given the opportunity to make these payments by Visa, MasterCard or Discover.
-
How do I know if I'm required to live in the residence halls?
Housing policy states that all students enrolled for nine or more credit hours at the Kent campus must live in university housing until they meet one of the following conditions:
- have attempted 60 credit hours (junior standing) prior to the start of the academic year
- are 20 years of age prior to the start of the academic year
- have lived in university housing for four semesters
- will live and travel to class from the primary residence of their parent or legal guardian residing within 50 miles of the University
- have been granted an exemption from the Department of University Housing
If the student's plans include commuting from home, they must submit a Mandatory Housing Exemption Application.
DOWNLOAD THE MANDATORY HOUSING EXEMPTION APPLICATION
Additionally, if the student plans on living in University recognized Greek housing, the student must submit Greek exemption paperwork.
-
Where can I find more information and/or apply to be a Resident Assistant (RA)?
Resident Assistants are valuable leaders that provide a great service to our residents. Information about the wonderful benefits and responsibilities of being an RA, as well as an application, is located at the Resident Assistant home page.
Room Assignments, Changes & Requests
-
I am interested in changing my room assignment. How can I make a change?
Students who lived on campus during the previous spring semester are able to change their room until the end of the contract renewal process on April 1st. This can be done by logging into the contract renewal online system. Once the contract renewal period has ended, returning residents may no longer change their room. If a returning resident still wishes to change rooms, they would need to wait until the room freeze period ends approximately the 15th day of the upcoming semester if space is available.
New incoming students are able to change their preferences, including hall preference, up until the point during the summer when their housing assignment is made.Once an incoming student's housing assignment is made, changes can no longer be made to the housing application. Housing assignments are made based on the preferences a student indicates on his or her on-line application and room availability. Once a housing assignment is made, students will be able to view their assignment online by logging back into their online application. Summer room changes are not available to incoming students. For any students that wish to make a room change, they would need to wait until approximately the 15th day of the upcoming semester if space is available.
During the academic year, room changes may be requested by visiting your Residence Hall Director or Graduate Assistant during posted office hours. At the start of each semester, space permitting, there is an approximately 15 day room freeze period where no room changes may occur. After this period room changes may occur if approved by your RHD or GA based on room availability.
-
I am interested in a single room. How do I know if I'm eligible?
All students are eligible for a single room at . Singles are available in Leebrick Hall and Centennial Court C. Freshmen and sophomores are welcome to reside in Leebrick Hall (floors 8-12), while students attaining sophomore status and beyond are also eligible for Centennial Court C. There is a very limited number of single rooms available in other halls: Allyn, Clark, Manchester, Fletcher, Dunbar, Lake and Olson Halls; in these buildings, there are between 3 and 6 singles in the building. While all students are eligible for single housing, we urge incoming students to take part in a living community that provides a roommate. Living with peers and making connections with other students is an integral part of the holistic education our students receive at the university. For further information on these or any of our residence halls, please visit our Residence Halls page.
-
Do you have any triple rooms?
A limited number of triple rooms are offered in Centennial Courts D-F, Johnson Hall, and Stopher Hall. The housing application provides an area to request another individual to be your roommate or suitemate. There is space to request up to three individuals. When filling out your application, you would need to request both of your friends that you wish to live in a triple with in this location. Please provide their last names and Kent State email addresses. Each of your friends will need to also follow this step to ensure all three individuals are placed into the same triple room.
Please note that housing assignments are made on a first come, first served basis. In addition to applying early, it would also be in the students' advantage to apply together. While every effort will be made to honor your request, we cannot guarantee that your request will be filled. Also, in order to be assigned to a triple in Johnson Hall or Stopher Hall all three individuals will need to be members of the Honors College.
-
Can I request my friend to be my roommate?
The housing application provides an area to request another individual to be your roommate. There is space to request up to three individuals (the first space should be used for your roommate request if you are interested in a double room. If you are interested in living in a triple room, please use the third roommate request field). When filling out your application, please provide their full name and Kent State email address. Please note that housing assignments are made on a first come, first served basis. In addition to applying early, it also would be to the students' advantage to apply together. While every effort will be made to honor your request, we cannot guarantee that your request will be filled. All individuals wanting to be roommates must confirm their roommate request before May 22nd when we begin assigning rooms for the upcoming academic year.
-
How can I get a room change?
If you’d like to switch rooms before move-in, a room swap process is available during the last full week in July. Availability depends on other students who are also looking to swap rooms. To participate in room swap, simply log into the . After the semester begins, the campus wide room change process opens following the third week of the fall semester.
-
Can I bring a pet? Where do I register it?
Pets are not permitted in the residence halls, student rooms, or public areas of the halls. This policy includes the pets of guests. Students who are approved for an Assistance Animal must abide by the Policy on Reasonable Accommodations and Assistance Animals in University Housing. For more information regarding the Policy on Reasonable Accommodations an Assistance Animals in University Housing visit this site.
-
How do I request a different roommate if mine has an animal?
Email housing@kent.edu with your request.
Move-In Logistics & Preparation
-
What items should I bring with me to campus?
Every room on campus is furnished with a bed, desk, and dresser for each student in addition to high-speed wireless internet service. Additionally, students should bring bath essentials, extra long twin bedding, as well as any other personal items necessary. Please remember to keep toaster-ovens, candles, indoor grills, microwaves, and torchiere-style lighting at home. For a more complete listing of items, please refer to our Hallways Manual. View our non-inclusive list of items to bring and items to leave at home.
-
What items are not allowed in the residence halls?
These items are prohibited on-campus. Find more information here.
-
Any Lamp with Halogen Bulbs
-
Any Pet that is NOT a Fish
-
Candles/Incense
-
Fireworks
-
Electrical Devices with an Exposed Heating Coil
-
Flexible Multi-Armed Floor Lamps
-
In-door Grills (George Foreman™ types)
-
Lava Lamps
-
Nails for Hanging Items (please use Sticky-Tac or 3-M removable hooks instead)
-
Rubber or Foam Backed Carpet
-
Stand-Alone Freezer
-
Space Heaters
-
Torchiere Style Lamps/Multi-arm Style Lamps
-
Window Air Conditioning Units
-
Toaster Ovens/Hot Pots/Plates
-
Toy Guns (i.e. BB or Airsoft)
-
Weapons (real or fake that look real)
-
-
How do I transport heavy/large packages back to my dorm room?
You can check out a cart from your area desk. Make sure to check-out a shopping cart at your local area desk before you head over to pickup your package
-
Where are the restrooms available during move-in?
Students may use the restrooms on their floor or in their room. Guest restrooms are available in some buildings, usually on the first floor. If you’re unsure where the nearest restroom is for guests, just ask the staff at check-in – they'll be happy to direct you.
-
Where can I get a cart to move in?
Carts will be available at your hall’s check-in location on move-in day. Supplies are limited and wait times may occur, so we encourage you to bring your own cart or dolly, if possible, for faster and easier unloading.
-
Should I have renters' insurance?
Check to see if your homeowner's or renter's insurance covers your belongings while you're at KSU. University insurance covers facilities only. is not responsible for student personal property that is lost, stolen, or damaged. You may also contact an agency that offers policies specifically for on-campus housing students. Below are some companies that provide insurance policies for college students:
-
CSI Insurance Agency
-
Inc.
-
National Student Services, Inc.
-
College Renter's Insurance
Click here for more information.
-
-
Can I remove furniture from my room?
All furniture provided in your room must remain in the room. Due to storage limitations, we’re unable to remove or store furniture. If you need adjustments for an approved ADA accommodation, please contact Student Accessibility Services before your arrival to arrange any necessary changes.
-
How do I use the elevator to get to my floor?
The elevators will be unlocked during move-in day but will be secured before and after move-in. Each elevator is equipped with an access reader just like the exterior doors of our buildings and will require your FLASHcard to authorize access. Once authorized, you will be able to push the button for the floor you select.
Mail & Packages
-
What is my mailing address?
Student Name
Residence Hall
Kent State On-Campus Mail Center
1375 Eastway Drive
Kent, OH 44243
-
Where will my mail be delivered?
The campus mail and package center is located in the lower level of Eastway Center next to the convenience store. When mail or a package arrives for you at the mail and package center, you will receive an email sent to your email address to let you know that you have an item ready for pickup. In order to pick up your mail or package, you will need to bring a photo ID (your FlashCard).
It’s important to note that even if a package’s on-line tracking shows the package as delivered, the package may not have arrived and been processed yet. When your mail or package is ready for pick-up, you will receive an email.
If your package has arrived in a locker, you will receive an email notifying you that your package has arrived and is ready for pickup.
-
Will my mail also be delivered to a locker?
Your mail will be available for pickup in the central distribution services desk during opening hours. The central distribution services desk is located right next to the lockers.
-
What are the opening hours of the Eastway central distribution center?
You can pick up your package 24/7. Oversized/overflow packages and mail can be picked up in the Eastway distribution center between the hours of 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Room Features & Furniture
-
What size are the beds in the residence halls?
Mattresses in our residence halls are extra-long (36"x80"). Beds may also be bunked or lofted to help maximize space in rooms. The National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) has partnered with Residence Hall Linens to provide our students with a convenient, affordable way to purchase extra-long sheets and bedding items, as well as other campus-living necessities. Proceeds from this program go to the NRHH and are used for programming and leadership opportunities in the residence halls. Please visit the RHL website .
-
How do I loft my bed?
Building loft furniture instructions.
-
Is there a place to get bunking pins and tools to assist with lofting my bed or assembling furniture?
Yes! Bunking pins and basic tools are available at the area desk that serves your residence hall. Please note – the safety rail provided on your bed is a critical safety feature for beds any higher than 30 inches from the ground.
-
Can I have an extra mini fridge?
Unfortunately, we’re not able to allow extra mini fridges in rooms due to electrical capacity and safety guidelines. Each room is limited to one mini fridge and microwave. If you need an additional fridge as part of an approved ADA accommodation, please contact Student Accessibility Services before your arrival to discuss options.
Technology & Internet
-
How do I connect to Wi-Fi?
Detailed step by step instructions for connecting your device to the internet using the “” network is available for Windows, Mac, Linus, mobile devices and Chromebooks.
-
How do I connect my gaming system to the internet?
Connecting a gaming system to the campus network requires a few extra steps to ensure compatibility and security. You’ll need to register your device before it can connect. For step-by-step instructions, visit
-
How does Mobile ID work?
CBORD Mobile ID is a mobile app that can be downloaded to your phone that can be used as a mobile credential on your phone for door access. It will only work for doors you should have access to on your Flashcard and require you to be logged into the app, be connected to Wi-Fi in your building, and be close to the door you are trying to enter. For exterior doors and elevators, the app will directly unlock the door through the app. For interior doors the app will give you a code to enter using the number pad on the lock for access. CBORD Mobile ID should be used anytime you accidentally get locked out of the room.
Meal Plan & Dining
-
Where am I able to use my meal plan and how do I purchase food with my plan?
The Meal Plan is accessed through the student's FLASHcard. For details on the many dining options, please visit the University Culinary Services FAQ page - /dining/meal-plan-faq
-
How do I use my meal plan?
You will use your FLASHcard to access your meal plan. You can swipe it at any all-you-care-to-eat dining hall or use it for a combo meal at select on-campus retail locations through Meal Exchange. Your plan may also include declining balance, which works like a debit account and can be used at various dining spots across campus.
For full details, including how to check your balance, where Meal Exchange is accepted, and how to add funds, visit the Meal Plan FAQ page.
-
Where can I eat late at night?
Eastway Market and Rosie’s offer late-night hours. For the most up-to-date hours and options, visit the University Culinary Services hours of operation.
Transportation & Parking
-
I am an incoming freshman who will be living in the residence halls. Am I allowed to bring my car to campus?
All of our students are more than welcome to bring their cars with them to the University. However, please note that first-year students park at Dix Stadium. For full parking details, please refer to the Parking Services website at www.kent.edu/parking.
-
What are the campus bus and public transportation options?
All Kent State students ride free on all (Portage Area Regional Transportation Authority) fixed routes with their FLASHcard with the exception of Akron and Cleveland Express Routes and Dial-A-Ride service.
-
How do I get to the closest grocery store?
There are several grocery stores near to our campus.
-
Where are the bank locations?
PNC Bank is located on the first floor of the Kent Student Center.
Policies, Safety & Behavior
-
Are students charged for room damages?
Students may get charged for damages they were responsible for. Upon move-in, students will assess any damage that may have previously occurred to the room. A similar inspection will happen on move-out, and students may get charged for new damages. Students are responsible for the cleaning of their rooms on a regular basis, as well as their private bathroom (if applicable). This includes removing trash to the appropriate receptacles. University Housing reserves the right to take corrective action, including cleaning the room and billing the resident. in situations that present a health or safety concern. However, in almost every situation, the first course of action will be to ask the resident(s) of the room to remedy the situation within 24 hours. Vacuums may be available in your community; please check with your RA, ARHD, or RHD.
-
Are pets allowed?
Pets, except fish, are not permitted in the residence halls, student rooms or public areas of the halls. For fish, the fish tank capacity per room may not exceed 30 gallons. This policy includes the pets of guests. Students who are approved for an Assistance Animal must abide by the Policy on Reasonable Accommodations and Assistance Animals in University Housing. For more information regarding the Policy on Reasonable Accommodations an Assistance Animals in University Housing visit this site.
-
Can I have guests?
Residents may bring guests into the residence halls. A guest is defined as any person who is not assigned to a room in that particular hall. All guests must be escorted by their host at all times – including in stairwells, bathrooms, lobbies and elevators. Residents are responsible for, and will be held accountable for, the actions of their guests. Residents are responsible for all violations that occur within their rooms, regardless of whether they are physically present in the room at the time. University Housing staff members reserve the right to require a guest to leave the room/floor/building when a guest is disruptive or not escorted by a resident of the building. University Housing also reserves the right to limit guest privileges to a room/floor/building as a disciplinary action when a guest is disruptive or not escorted by a resident of the building. With the consent of all roommates and/or suitemates, residents may permit a guest to stay overnight in their room for no more than three (3) days in a seven (7) day period. These nights do not need to be consecutive. Guest/escort policies may change based on university needs, such as a public health emergency. University Housing staff will notify students should policies change.
-
Where can I find a first aid kit?
First aid kits are available at each Area Desk, the Safety and Community Care office and the Residence Hall Director offices.
Student Services & FLASHcard
-
How do I get a FLASHcard?
In order to get your FLASHcard you must complete a FLASHcard Application Form (PDF). The FLASHcard Office is located on the Lower Level in the Kent Student Center and are open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. You have to have an official state photo ID or Passport.
-
How can I get proof of residence letter?
To obtain a proof of residence letter, and navigate to the 'My Housing Information' page, then click 'Request Proof of Residence'. A letter will be sent to your KSU email address.