Living on Campus

This means that the residential environment directly connects to the mission of the college and a student’s persistence, engagement in learning activities, and their sense of safety and belonging.

Therefore, all students who are enrolled and pursuing an on-campus degree and taking 12 credits or more (including online courses), must live in college-owned housing their first three years.

The college recognizes that there are conditions where an exemption may be considered. These are:

• Student is 23 years old at the start of the academic year
• Student is married with proof of marriage
• Custodial parent of a minor child
• Special circumstances that you feel warrant consideration for an exemption

Each application will be reviewed by the Residential Living Policy Review Committee as part of a collaborative process to determine whether the request for an exemption can be met. All requests should be accompanied with any documentation that is supportive.

Students are strongly advised not to make contractual agreements or financial commitments in the community before receiving full approval for an exemption. All notifications (approval or otherwise) will be sent to the student via their Hope College email. Students should not assume approval before receiving notification of approval.

To apply for an exemption from the residential requirement, please use the link below.

2022–2023 Residential Living Policy Exemption 

Approved exemptions are for the requested academic year only. If needed, students will need to reapply each year they need an exemption.

For students with an assessed condition as defined by ADA and who are seeking a housing accommodation, please complete the ADA housing accommodation process through the Disability and Accessibility Resources Office (DAR). Housing assignments are determined by Residential Life & Housing as part of a collaborative process. We cannot guarantee assignment to a specific room or residence hall and accommodations are not contigent on other students. Please know that reasonable accommodations are sought for students within the context of the three-year, on-campus residential policy. DAR does not approve off-campus requests as an accommodation for a disability.

Apply for a Request for Accommodation 

Questions concerning the Residential Living Policy can be directed to the Student Development Office by calling 616.395.7800 or emailing sdev@hope.edu.