Commuter Housing Exemption

Question

Can I apply for a commuter exemption if I am going to live with a relative/friend?

Can I apply for a commuter exemption if I've already signed a housing contract?

How do I apply for a commuter exemption?

What are the requirements for a commuter exemption?

How likely is it that I will be granted a commuter exemption?

Answer

1. Students may not apply for a commuter exemption with the intention to live with anyone who is not their legal guardian. Applications received without proof of residence with a legal guardian will be denied.
2. Students may not apply for a commuter exemption if they have already signed a University Housing Contract. Applications received from students with a signed University Housing Contract will be denied.
3. To apply for a commuter exemption, you first need to go to the University Housing Portal.
4. Click the Exemption Request button.
5. Find the appropriate term and click Continue.
6. Review your information and update as necessary. When finished, click Save & Continue.
7. Find the dropdown box labelled Exemption Type Requested and select Commuter.
8. Read the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement.
9. Sign in agreement by typing your first and last name.
   • Note: Students must type their name exactly as it appears in the housing portal, with no extra spaces or punctuation.
10. Click Save & Continue.
11. Download and complete the Commuter Exemption Form
12. Mail or hand deliver a completed Commuter Form to the University Housing Office 
    • Note: The exemption request is not complete and therefore will not be processed until this is submitted
13. You must also upload a completed Commuter Form and click Submit Exemption Application
14. You should arrive at a page labelled Exemption Application Status. You can now click Exit Application
15. Commuter Exemptions are based upon the distance from the student's home to campus being under 60 miles, the student living with a legal guardian, and a notarized copy of the exemption form being delivered to the University Housing Office.
    • Note: Commuter Exemptions are not processed until a physical, notarized copy of the exemption form is turned in to the University Housing office.
16. There is no way for University Housing to quantify how likely it is that an exemption will get approved. The approval or denial of a housing exemption is solely based on the requirements outlined for each exemption and the university's ability to accommodate students' needs
    • Note: University Housing recommends that students do not sign an off-campus lease until their exemption is approved