Students have many options for their living arrangements, both on and off campus. It is important that students and families understand these options when making informed housing decisions. The information below highlights the benefits of living in University Housing and the factors to consider when selecting an off-campus apartment or house.
University Housing
University Housing offers residence halls for undergraduate students, as well as university-owned apartments for single and married students and their families. University Residence Halls offer students the opportunity to build personal connections to the university and community, and help new students successfully make the transition from high school to college and beyond. To enhance learning, a wide variety of programming takes place within the residence halls, including academic programming and diversity programming. Phone: 608-262-2522
Residential Learning Communities at UW–Madison
Choosing to live in a residential learning community is a great opportunity for your student. Learning communities integrate living and learning experiences together with faculty, staff and students around an explicit focus within University Residence Halls. Students in these communities benefit from unique seminars, class sections, and activities that bring them together and set them up for success.
- BioHouse Learning Community
- Bradley Learning Community
- Chadbourne Residential College
- Creative Arts & Design Community
- Entrepreneurial Residential Learning Community
- GreenHouse
- International Learning Community
- Multicultural Learning Community
- Open House Learning Community
- Women in Science & Engineering
Other Housing Options
Off-Campus Housing Services
Off-Campus Housing Services is a resource within University Housing to help students and families navigate the housing search. The service is designed to provide students with the resources to make informed decisions and to offer follow-up support as needed. Off-Campus Housing Services provides educational programs, builds relationships with landlords, and meets individually with students who need assistance.
For more information about privately-owned housing options near campus, you can contact Off-Campus Housing Services by email at off-campus@housing.wisc.edu.
Privately owned residence halls
Privately owned residence halls, owned and operated by the private sector, provide a group living situation conducive to meeting other students and to helping ease students into college life. They are located near campus and offer residence-hall and apartment-style arrangements, meal plans, and other amenities. Application procedures and lease agreements vary, and are solely the responsibility of the student renter, not the university, and are legally binding.
Students who sign any rental lease and later decide not to attend UW–Madison (or change their mind) may still be held legally responsible for their lease. UW–Madison cautions against signing two housing contracts/leases; both are binding and students as well as co-signors may be held responsible.
Consult your contract or lease for specific details about your liability if your plans change or if you are not admitted.