Student Housing and Residential Life

2025 Spring Move-In

We understand that moving in can be an exciting yet hectic time, and we're here to provide you with all the details and guidance you need for a successful and stress-free move-in experience. From important dates and checklists to campus maps and tips for a comfortable arrival, we want to ensure your move-in day is a seamless and enjoyable start to your academic journey. We look forward to welcoming you to our campus community!

International Program

All International and NSE students’ Move-In date is January 16 in the Student Center (Building 12). Please contact your program coordinator for more information about your move-in process.

Otter Welcome Team and Housing Staff with there hands up.

 

  • Date  Key Pick-Up Location Buildings/Group
    Friday, January 16, 2026 Main Housing Office, Building 12

    New Spring Residents

    1. Digital Move-In Map
    2. Campus Maps
  • Getting to Know Your Roommates

    1. Introduce Yourself:
      • You can email your roommates. Their email addresses are on your MyHousing portal under “My Roommates.”
      • Share a bit about yourself, such as where you’re from, your hobbies, interests and major.
    2. Discuss Expectations:
      • Communicate openly and address any issues promptly.
      • Prepare for a mandatory roommate agreement by asking your roommates some questions. 
    3. Key Questions:
      • What does “clean” mean to you?
      • How will we handle disagreements?
      • Are there any cultural practices or boundaries we should be aware of?
    4. Plan to meet once you arrive on campus and go to your community meeting and area welcome event.

    Shared Space Expectations

    Respect Each Other’s Space:

    • Being well-versed in our Community Standards can help you feel even more comfortable in your new living environment. 
    • Here are the top five Community Standards you should familiarize yourself with:

    Quiet Hours

    • Sunday through Thursday: 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
    • Friday and Saturday: Midnight to 10 a.m.
      • Be mindful of noise levels, especially during quiet hours.
    • Courtesy Hours: 24/7
      • Please keep noise levels down to ensure everyone can enjoy a peaceful environment. If it gets too loud and bothers others, you will be asked to lower the volume as a courtesy to your neighbors.

    Community Living Resources

    Safety and Support:

    • Participate in maintaining a safe and inclusive environment. 
      • You should always contact your Resident Advisor (RA) for any non-emergency issues. They will help guide you through the next steps. 
    • University Police Department (UPD): For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency situations, call (831) 655-0268. Officers are available 24/7.
    • Night Walks: Call a student Community Service Officer (CSO) to support you in walking from one part of campus to your residence hall at night by dialing (831) 655-0268 for a Night Walk.
  • Before You Arrive On Campus

    1. Before arriving, make sure to check out our What to Bring List and review the Directions and Move-In Map to plan your day. Printable move-in maps are also attached to this email.
      1. What to Bring List
      2. Directions and Move-In Map
    2. Make sure you pack your OtterCard or a government-issued ID and your QR code from your MyHousing portal. We recommend taking a quick screenshot of your QR code just in case you can’t access the internet on campus.
      1. Remember, your OtterCard is your key to the laundry room, your building, and your meal plan if you have one.
    3. If you don’t have an OtterCard, visit the OtterCard website ahead of time to submit your photo and save time on move-in day.

    When You Arrive

    1. Park in Lot 71 and head to the Main Housing Office in Building 12 to check in.
    2. Before leaving Lot 71, make sure you have your OtterCard and the QR code from your MyHousing portal. We recommend taking a quick screenshot of your QR code for quick access.
    3. If you do not have an OtterCard on your move-in day, you may be directed to the Admissions Office in Building 47 to get a new one.
      1. The Admissions Office is open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
      2. To save time, we recommend submitting your photo in advance on the OtterCard website.
    1. Work Order Webpage