Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for on campus housing?
You must submit a Residence Life application along with a $100 deposit. The application can be found at http://reslife.astate.edu/pdfs/application.pdf.
Can I request a specific hall or roommate?
Yes, the Residence Life application allows you to let us know if you have a specific hall preference or roommate preference. Please note that all roommate requests must be mutual. We will use the date that we receive your application and deposit to establish priority for specific requests.
What happens if I change my mind after I send my application and deposit?
You will need to notify us in writing prior to the confirmation date on your Room and Board contract to be eligible for refund of the deposit.
When does the Room and Board contract become binding?
On August 2, 2008, the contract becomes binding for both the fall and spring semesters if you are enrolled in classes at ASU. To be released from the contract once it becomes binding, you must petition to the Residence Life Contract Release Committee.
When should I expect to receive my contract, assignment, and roommate information?
If we receive your completed application and $100 deposit prior to March 15, you should receive your assignment letter, contract, and roommate information mid-April. Assignment letters, contracts, and roommate information for applications received after March 15 will be mailed within 2 to 3 weeks of the date we received the application.
As a freshman can I live at home and commute to Arkansas State University?
Freshmen not living at the legal residence of his or her parent(s) or legal guardian(s) are required to live in on campus housing. We believe that the on campus housing experience will contribute to college success hence better grades and eventually graduation. Students living on campus will have more opportunities to connect to the University. Freshmen (including students planning to live with parents or guardians) may request a release from this policy by completing the On Campus Requirement Waiver Form. Requests along with appropriate documentation will be reviewed by a committee for a decision.
What is FYRE?
FYRE stands for First Year Residential Experience. Freshmen living in Arkansas Hall, Kays Hall, and University Hall will be exposed to programs designed to bridge the transition from high school to college through more faculty and staff interaction. Freshmen will learn study skills and test taking tips. Staff in these halls will assume more responsibility in providing residents with opportunities to gain valuable life skills. FYRE is designed to compliment the first year seminar course that you will be enrolled in during your first semester at ASU.
I heard that some classes will be offered in the residence halls. Is that true?
Yes. All first year students will enroll in a first year seminar course and a general education course. FYRE students will be assigned to the seminar course and general education course based on their residence hall. Students will live together and take at least two classes together creating instant study groups. Some of the seminar courses will be taught in the corresponding residence hall. In addition, enthusiastic faculty members will visit the residence hall throughout the year and facilitate educational programs that support your academic endeavors and occupational programs that foster career development.
If I plan to participate in the Honors College as a freshman where will I live?
Freshman Honors College students can request on the housing application to live in the Honors Residence Hall. The Honors Residence Hall is located in Northpark Quads and is home to first year and upper-class honors students. Faculty in collaboration with residence life staff will concentrate on providing activities outside of the classroom designed to enhance the Honors College experience.
Students are assigned to the Honors Residence Hall based on their scholarship award and participation in the Honors program. University Honor scholarship recipients are guaranteed a space in Northpark Quads. If space is available, Chancellor scholarship recipients then Dean scholarship recipients will be considered.
If I want a private room, how do I request this option?
All first year students will be place in double occupancy rooms in Arkansas, Kays and University. Exceptions may be made for students who have special needs and require a single room living environment.
Students can request to be on a private room waiting list if spaces does become available. During the first week of fall and spring check-in, students can go to the front desk of each residence hall and place their name on the private room waiting list. Students on this list will be place in order according to the date of their housing deposit and if space becomes available will be contacted by the assignments coordinator.