FAQs

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Prospective undergraduate residents

When can I apply to live in residence?
New students usually apply to live in residence at the end of the UBC Admissions process in February. Student Housing also accepts applications directly through the Online Service Centre or print an application form. See Important Dates to confirm the deadline to apply.
Who is eligible to live in residence?
Who gets priority to live in residence?
We set aside rooms first for students who qualify for the First Year Guarantee and Priority Access.

How are residence offers sent?
All residence offers are sent by email.
What if I don’t respond to the offer by the deadline?
Please contact Student Housing immediately.
What if I’m unable to pay a deposit?
Please contact Student Housing immediately.
What if I don’t want to live in the area I’m offered?
If you want to live in residence, we recommend you accept the offer. If the offer is declined, you will not receive another one. If you are unhappy with your room, you may apply for a room transfer in mid-September. Transfers are considered on a case-by-case basis and not guaranteed.
How much does it cost to live in residence?
Fees vary by residence and room type.
How can I pay fees?
There are a few ways. See Fees & Payments to find an option that works best for you.
How can I check my account balance?
Use the Online Service Centre. When a payment is received, a credit will appear on your account.
Can someone else call the main office on my behalf to ask about my application or fees?

We will only release this information if you provided consent to release it on your application form. See how we value privacy.

Do I have to buy a meal plan?
Students who live at Place Vanier, Totem Park and Orchard Commons must purchase the Residence Meal Plan. Students assigned to other residences can purchase an optional UBCcard Value Plan.
Can I bring my car?

UBC is a very walkable campus—flat and pedestrian-friendly, with everything inside a 15-minute walk or so, and much of campus a car-free zone. So you don’t need to bring a bike or vehicle to get around.

Learn more about alternative transportation options for on and off-campus.

If you do end up bringing a vehicle, find out how to apply for parking and what it costs.

Can first year students request a roommate?
Yes. Roommate group requests are part of the application process.
Can I contact my roommate(s) before moving in?
Yes, if they have provided their consent. Use the Online Service Centre to consent to release your information to each other. Roommates usually contact each other in mid-August.
When can I move into residence?
Learn more about moving in and Move In Day.
Can I move in early?
Early arrivals are typically not permitted. Check eligibility.

Current residents

What if someone calls the main office to get in touch with me?
To comply with privacy law, we don’t release information about any residents unless consent is provided.
Who do I contact about lost or stolen keys?
Visit your Residence Front Desk immediately to file a report.
What if residence property needs maintenance?
Use the Online Service Centre to send a maintenance request. Do not attempt to fix residence property on your own.
Does UBC cover damages to my personal property?
No. UBC’s insurance coverage is for the physical structure of buildings (walls, roof, flooring) and components (fridges, stoves) only. The university is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged personal property, regardless of the cause. We strongly recommend that you get renter’s insurance.
Can I switch rooms with someone?
What if there is a conflict within residence?
All residents must adhere to Residence Standards. Conflicts or breaches of Residence Standards are investigated by Residence Life staff.
What happens during the winter break?
Place Vanier, Totem Park and Orchard Commons residents are not permitted to stay in their rooms during the winter break residence closure. Students in other residences are permitted to stay; however, campus services are limited throughout the break.
When is the deadline to move out of residence?
Check our Important Dates page for this year’s move out date. But if you’re moving directly into another residence operated by UBC Student Housing, watch for an email with information about when to move—or contact us.
Where can I dispose of garbage and unwanted items when I move out?
Check out our Moving Out page to learn more about how to move out of residence and what to do with the stuff you’re not taking with you.
Are there fees when I move out?
Students may receive assessments if there is any damage to residence property or required cleaning was not completed to our satisfaction.
What is the policy for cancelling a Residence Contract?

Cancellation must be initiated using the Online Service Centre.

Returning and graduate residents

What type of housing should I apply for?
Year Round residence is the place for upper year and graduate students. Learn more at Returning Students and Graduate Students.
Can I apply for Winter Session residence too?
You are welcome to apply for upper year Winter Session housing; however, there is a very limited number of spaces available.
How do I increase my chances of getting into residence?
Apply to live in Year Round residence as early as possible.
What about roommate requests?
After receiving a residence offer, go online to update your application preferences and submit a roommate grouping request.
What if I change my mind about living in residence?

Cancellation must be initiated using the Online Service Centre.

Are sublets allowed?

Subletting is permitted in eligible residences during the Summer Session.