What is the difference between on-campus and off-campus housing?
The difference is that the University owns and manages on campus housing. All of this is done through Residential Life. Off-Campus housing consists of rentals that surround the University and are owned and operated by independent landlords or property management companies.
Can I live off-campus as a Freshman?
It depends. Freshmen are required to live on campus unless you have a valid exemption. [The following paragraphs are adapted from the UConn Residential Life website on Residency Requirements at UConn]. The University of Connecticut (UConn) considers the on-campus living experience an integral and necessary part of the total education of its students. The Residency Requirement has been developed with great consideration. Research has shown that first and second year students who live in residence halls build closer relationships with faculty, staff and their peers; become more involved; and are generally more satisfied with their overall university experience. The policy is in place due to the significant link between academic success and participation in the Residential Life program.
See also: Residential Life | Residency Requirement Information
Can I still live off-campus if I don’t have a car?
Yes. There are many apartments that are located on the UConn bus routes or on the Storrs/Willimantic shuttle. There are also houses that are located within walking distance that are available to rent. You can learn more about transportation options at UConn by visiting The UConn Transportation Office
Where should I start looking for off-campus housing?
The Off-Campus and Commuter Student Services housing site (offcampushousing.uconn.edu) is a great resource for apartments, rentals, and rooms that are located around the university. You should take into consideration factors such as type of housing, price range, roommates, and location.
My research has ended at UConn in February, I would like to return home to ____, Can I walk away from my lease since I will not be here?
Yes, and No. You cannot walk away from a lease, ever. It is a legally binding document and there are legal consequences for doing so. You can however speak with your property manager about possibly paying an “early termination fee” or finding someone to take over your lease for the remaining months you are not there. Be sure to have open communication with your property manager and your roommates if you have any, this way there will be no confusion if you do decide to return home early.
I am no longer getting along with my roommate so I have decided to move out and sign a lease at another apartment complex. Am I still responsible for my lease even though I am not getting along with them?
Yes! You can never walk away from a legal contract. A lease is your commitment to the property owner, not just your roommate, to being financially responsible for your portion of the rent. You should try your best to work things out with your roommate before you take the next steps of moving out and you should never sign another lease somewhere else before making sure, you are no longer legally committed to your current lease.