New system for affordable student housing aims for greater equity

This message was sent to all students with valid housing licenses for on-campus housing on May 8, 2023

For the last two years, CSUMB has been working with a consultant to determine student housing needs for our campus. Overwhelmingly, students say that they want more amenities and engagement opportunities, while still having access to below-market-rate prices.

CSUMB is working on ways to enhance the residential life experience, and in order to do that, we will be phasing out Rate Lock for future students who are admitted for or after Spring 2024. If you are currently eligible for Rate Lock as a continuing or newly admitted student for Fall 2023 – these changes will not affect you. 

Over the next few years, CSUMB will phase out the Rate Lock program in favor of a housing pricing system that gives new and returning students equal access to below-market-rate choices for living on the CSUMB campus.

For CSUMB students who are already enrolled in classes and maintain full-time enrollment in the Fall 2023 semester – there is no change to the Rate Lock program or eligibility. All existing eligibility rules still apply for continuing CSUMB students. All existing eligibility rules still apply for continuing CSUMB students. Students with questions about their Rate Lock eligibility can contact Student Housing and Residential Life.

We are taking this phased approach so that we can maintain our Rate Lock commitment to our current students, and to ensure that you do not experience an unexpected housing budget increase midway through your degree program. We understand that students want housing options and we believe this approach to equitable access will provide lower prices to more members of the Otter community in the future.