College housing
The semester starts soon and I still don't have housing. What are my options?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Contact your school's housing office first, because dorm and student complex rooms often open up in the weeks around the start of classes as people cancel. At the same time, look for last-minute sublets and rooms in your college's housing group, and line up a short-term place to stay so you can search in person.
- Ask the housing office to add you to the waitlist, and whether it knows of emergency or temporary housing.
- Post in your college's housing group with your budget and move-in date, and reply to every room post that fits.
- Call student apartment complexes directly. Some have last-minute cancellations they don't advertise.
- Book a few nights in a hotel or short-term rental, or stay with a friend, so you can tour places in person.
- If you live within driving distance, consider commuting for the first few weeks.
Late searchers are a favorite target for rental scams, because scammers know you're under pressure. The rules still apply: see the place before paying, and pay a verified landlord.
Many schools also have a dean of students or basic needs office that helps students facing housing problems. Asking for help is normal, and the earlier you ask, the more they can do.
Want the whole picture? Read Off-Campus Housing for Students: A Semester-by-Semester Timeline.