Ball State University requires all incoming students to live in on-campus housing for at least two semesters, unless they meet specific exemption criteria. The Board of Trustees of Ball State University approved the policy relating to student residency that became effective for students entering the university beginning in the fall 2005 semester. This policy supports a richer college experience by fostering a sense of community.

Residency Requirement Policy

All students are required to live in University housing for two semesters unless they will be 21 years of age prior to the beginning of the term for which they are enrolling, have 24 or more semester hours of Ball State University accepted credits achieved after their graduation from high school, are married or are a custodial parent of a dependent child, or are living with their parents in the parents' primary residence within a 60-mile radius of campus. The address of the parents at the time of a student's application for admission to Ball State will be considered the parents' primary residence. Transfer students are strongly encouraged to contact the Office of Housing and Residence Life prior to signing any off-campus lease to determine their eligibility to live off-campus.

Residency Exemption

A residency exemption allows students who meet specific criteria to live off-campus rather than in university housing. We understand that individual circumstances may vary, and this process ensures that students with unique situations can apply for an exception. Exemptions require a formal request and documentation for approval. You may be eligible for an exemption if you meet one of the following conditions:

  • Students who live with their parents within a 60-mile radius of campus. (Proof of residency will be required.)
  • Students enrolled in fewer than 9 semester hours.
  • Students with primary custody of a minor child. (Proof of custody will be required.)
  • Students who are in a marriage recognized by the State of Indiana. (Copy of the Marriage Certificate will be required.)
  • Students who will be 21 prior to the first day of classes of their first semester of enrollment at Ball State University.
  • Ball State students who have lived in university residence halls for two semesters but not achieved 24 credit hours.

Applying for a Residency Exemption

Students looking to receive exemption from the residency requirements must complete a Residency Exemption on the housing portal. You’ll need to provide all relevant documentation based on your situation. Missing or incomplete materials can delay the approval process, so ensure that all necessary documents are provided. This will help avoid any delays in your review and approval. Exemption request needs to be submitted no later than 30 days prior to the beginning of the first semester of enrollment.

Apply for Residency Exemption

IMPORTANT - Signing an off-campus lease does not qualify as grounds for an exemption. Students are encouraged to not make any commitments for off-campus housing until they receive a written documentation from our office guaranteeing their exemption.

Questions?

If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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