Policies and Information

Alcoholic beverage containers, full or empty, are not permitted in any university residence hall. Any student or guest in a room who knows that alcohol is present will be held responsible under the alcohol policy unless he/she informs a staff member of the violation or removes him/her self from the room.

The Office of the Dean of Students will notify parents/guardians of students under 21 years of age when a student is found responsible for (1) violations of the drug policy, (2) a second violation of the alcohol policy, and (3) on the first violation of the alcohol policy when one or more of the following occurs:

1. The student demonstrates a reckless disregard for his or her personal safety or the safety of others;
2. Medical attention to any person, including the student, is required as a result of the student's alcohol related behavior;
3. There is property damage;
4. The student operates a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol;
5. The incident involves another serious violation.
6. The student's alcohol-related behavior negatively impacts the learning environment.
   
   

Damage, destruction, or theft of public property, including bulletin boards and posted information, or private property and furnishings is prohibited. Hall staff response to vandalism on a floor or hall is determined through the community contract process established by students generally occurring in the fall semester.

Students are required to complete room inventory forms when first moving into any room. Students are held accountable for any damage that occurs within that room, including those from bed unit construction, decorations, adhesives, and bike storage. Failure to complete a room inventory form indicates that no damage was present upon move-in.

Tip: To prevent damages to walls from metal futon frames, purchase a foam pool swim "noodle." Cut a slit the length of the noodle, then fit over the futon frame.

When individual responsibility cannot be determined for damage in common areas, the amount may be prorated among all members of the community. Students will be given the opportunity to provide information in a timely manner prior to final billing. When an accused student is found to be responsible for damage, he or she will be charged for the necessary repairs, replacements, or custodial services. The student may also face disciplinary action under the vandalism policy. Hall staff response to vandalism on a floor or hall is determined through the community contract process established by students.

A. Incident Reports

Any student or employee of the university who alleges that a residence hall policy has been violated should contact a residence hall staff member to file an incident report. In most cases incident reports are submitted electronically to the residence hall director of the hall where the accused student lives. Accusations against students who live off campus or non-students are typically forwarded to the Office of Student Conduct for review. Once the incident report has been reviewed, the residence hall director, in consultation with an Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life, will determine which alleged policy violation(s) for which the student will be charged.

The accused student will receive notification (sent to the student's BSU email account) of the incident report and alleged policy violation(s). Prior to a hearing, the accused student may submit a written incident response (hard copy or email message to the hearing officer) that is included as part of the written record of the case. The student's response becomes a permanent part of the student's disciplinary record.

File an Incident Report

B. Disciplinary Meeting Types

Hall Director Hearings are conducted by the Residence Hall Director (RHD) or the Assistant Residence Hall Director (ARHD) of the building in which the accused student lives.

Administrative Hearings are conducted by an Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life.

Conduct Board Hearings are conducted by a board composed of a group of nominated, selected, and trained residence hall students.

1. Residence Hall Director Hearing

An RHD or ARHD will hold a hearing in situations where a student has an allegation of a first or sometimes second offense that does not jeopardize the student’s housing contract or does not put the student in jeopardy of suspension or expulsion.

• After reviewing an incident report and related documentation, the RHD or ARHD shall meet with the student to discuss the incident and the policy violation(s).
• The student may request a meeting in advance of the hearing with the RHD or ARHD to discuss the student rights and responsibilities.
• The student can plead "not responsible" for the policy violation(s) and requests that the RHD meeting serve as a hearing for the charges.
• The student can plead "responsible" for the policy violation(s) and have the sanction determined by the designated HRL staff member.
• All findings and/or sanctions will be communicated to the student's BSU email account within two business days.
• Should the accused student elect not to appear, the hearing shall be held in his or her absence. A plea of “Not Responsible in Absentia” will be entered on behalf of the student. In some cases, the hall director may elect to reschedule the hearing.

2. Preliminary Meeting

• In situations where cancellation of the student's housing contract is a possibility or if the student documented is already on disciplinary probation, the purpose of the preliminary meeting is to offer the student the choice of having an Administrative Hearing with an Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life or to have the case heard by the Conduct Board.
• The HRL staff member (usually the RHD) will review with the student their rights and responsibilities regarding the HRL disciplinary system at Ball State University. When the Conduct Board is not in operation, the student is automatically assigned to an Administrative Hearing.
• Also, if the incident involves multiple students who do not agree on what hearing body should adjudicate the case, the incident defaults to an Administrative Hearing.
• If the student does not attend the preliminary meeting, the HRL staff member will refer the case to either the Conduct Board or an Administrative Hearing.

3. Administrative Hearing

• An Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life (ADHRL) shall meet with the student to discuss the incident and policy violation(s) and conduct the hearing. Students will have an administrative hearing with an ADHRL if they fail to complete previously assigned sanctions. In most cases the hearing will be audio recorded.
• The student can plead “responsible” or “not responsible” for each charge.
• During the hearing, witnesses for the University and/or student may be utilized and will be presented as needed.
• A witness list on behalf of the student must be submitted to the ADHRL via BSU email no later than one hour prior to the hearing.
• A witness list on behalf of the University will be submitted to the student via BSU email no later than one hour prior to the hearing.
• During the hearing a student may also utilize an advisor who may be present during the proceeding. An advisor of each student’s choice may accompany the accused and/or accuser(s). The advisor may attend, freely counsel, and assist the accused, but not act as a spokesperson.
• In most cases, the findings and/or sanctions will be determined after the Administrative Hearing and will be communicated to the student in writing within two business days.
• Should the accused student elect not to appear, the hearing shall be held in his or her absence. A plea of “Not Responsible in Absentia” will be entered on behalf of the student. In some cases, the ADHRL may elect to reschedule the hearing.

4. Conduct Board Hearing

• The Conduct Board shall meet with the student to discuss the incident and policy violation(s) and conduct the hearing. In most cases, the hearing will be audio recorded.
• The student can plead “responsible” or “not responsible” for each charge.
• During the hearing, witnesses for the University and/or student may be utilized and will be presented as needed.
• A witness list on behalf of the student must be submitted to the ADHRL via BSU email no later than one hour prior to the hearing.
• A witness list on behalf of the University will be submitted to the student via BSU email no later than one hour prior to the hearing.
• During the hearing a student may also utilize an advisor who may be present during the proceeding. An advisor of each student’s choice may accompany the accused and/or accuser(s). The advisor may attend, freely counsel, and assist the accused, but not act as a spokesperson.
• In most cases, the findings and/or sanctions will be determined after the Conduct Board hearing and will be communicated to the student BSU email within two business days.
• Should the accused student elect not to appear, the hearing shall be held in his or her absence. In some cases, the Conduct Board may elect to reschedule the hearing.

C. Sanctions

1. Official Written Reprimand: A written warning that the continuation or repetition of unacceptable conduct may lead to further disciplinary action.
2. Educational Requirements: A student may be required to do interviews, a research project, a reflection paper, university or community service, or other type of assignment to provide a learning experience related to the violation.
3. Restitution: A student, whose actions cause damage to public or private property or injury to another person, may be required to provide monetary reimbursement for restoration of or replacement of property or for medical bills related to injuries.
4. Referral: The student may be referred to an appropriate university service office or to an outside agency to assist that student in achieving personal, social, or emotional growth.
5. Alcohol/Drug Education Program: A student in violation of published alcohol/drug policies or who exhibits inappropriate behavior as a result of alcohol consumption or under the influence of a drug may be required to complete an education program at the student’s expense.
6. Disciplinary Probation: For a specified period of time during which the student must demonstrate a willingness and ability to conform to all university regulations. Any violation of university policy while on disciplinary probation may result in referral to the University Review Board with the possibility of housing contract cancellation, suspension or expulsion from the university.
7. Ban from an Area: A student may be prohibited from entering or being on the premises of specific residence hall buildings or all residential facilities.
8. Relocation: A student may be relocated to another residence hall and subsequently restricted from the facility and/or the area of where the incident occurred.
9. Termination of Housing Contract: A student may have his/her room and board contract terminated and be required to vacate the residence hall. The student will be given at least 48 hours to vacate the residence halls. Any additional violation occurring prior to vacating the residence halls will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct. Students, who are under the age of 21, have not lived two semesters in the residence halls, and are freshmen will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct for possible additional disciplinary sanctions for violation of the residency requirement. Parents/guardians will be contacted when the housing contract is terminated.

D. Appeal Process

1. A student may appeal the result of a Hall Director Hearing decision to the appropriate Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life.
2. Decisions by a Conduct Board Hearing or Administrative Hearing may be appealed to the Associate Director of Housing and Residence Life.
3. A student has two business days from the delivery of the original decision to the student's BSU email in which to submit an appeal in writing.
4. A student may appeal based on the following reasons: 

• A procedural or substantive error occurred that significantly affected the outcome of the hearing, such as substantiated bias or material deviation from established procedures
• An unduly harsh sanction against the accused student.
• New information of a substantive nature sufficient to alter a decision, because such information and/or facts were not known to the accused student at the time of the original hearing.
  

5. An appeal may be resolved in one of the following ways:

• The original decision may be upheld.
• Modified, lesser sanctions, may be imposed.
  
• The case may be remanded back for a new hearing.
• All allegations may be dismissed.

6. The appellate decision shall be final and will not be subject to any further appeal.

E. Automatic Review

The Associate Director of Housing and Residence Life will automatically review any case resulting in termination of the housing contract.

F. Referrals to the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities (SRCS)

After consultation, any case may be referred to the SRCS for adjudication or for consideration of additional sanctions when:

• Violations are of a more serious nature and may warrant consideration of suspension or expulsion from the university.
• Violations involve off-campus students or actions.
• On campus students are involved with prior violations that were heard by the SRCS.
• Or others deemed necessary by HRL staff.

Using, abusing, possessing, selling, distributing, manufacturing, or transferring narcotics, illegal drugs, or any controlled substance, (including marijuana, inhalants, and abuse of over-the-counter drugs and prescription drugs), except as expressly permitted by law is a violation of the drug policy. Possession of drug paraphernalia which can be demonstrated to be linked to illegal drug activity is also a violation of this policy. Students and their guests are not permitted to possess paraphernalia such as bongs, rolling papers, deseeding trays, roach clips, scales, or any item used to inhale/ingest illegal substances or any item used to disguise the use of drugs. Also not permitted is misusing legal substances to obtain an unnatural reaction such as aerosol cans or salvia.

Federal and state laws forbid the sale and use of drugs that are not prescribed by a physician for personal use or are not available on the legal open market. Any person known to be possessing, using, or distributing such drugs is subject to university disciplinary action and possible arrest, imprisonment, or fine according to the state drug law.

Violation of the drug policy will probably result in the termination of the housing contract and further disciplinary action with the Office of Student Conduct.

Starting or attempting to start a fire, or acting in a manner that disregards the fire safety policies which results in a fire is prohibited in or around the residence halls. Negligent behavior such as not monitoring cooking and causing smoke or fire resulting in a fire alarm may be subject to discipline procedures and sanctions. Any student who discovers a fire, no matter how insignificant he/she thinks it is, should sound the alarm by pulling the nearest pull station and notify the front desk staff, a resident assistant (RA), or hall director immediately. The building must be evacuated before attempting to contain the fire.

Students and guests must leave the buildings and go to their designated locations when a fire alarm sounds. Staff may enter rooms to do an evacuation room check if there is reason to believe that anyone could not or did not evacuate. Fire evacuation routes are posted on the back of student room doors.

Tampering with fire and safety equipment (i.e., alarms, doors, pull stations, extinguishers, security cameras) is prohibited. Students who violate this policy will be placed on disciplinary probation and may be subject to termination of the Housing and Dining contract.

Door-to-door distribution, solicitation, fund-raising, sales, or commercial activity are not permitted within the residence halls. A student may, however, by express invitation invite a distributor, solicitor, fund-raiser, or salesman to the students' room for distribution, solicitation, fund-raising, sales to that student and the students' invited guests in the privacy of his or her own room. In addition, a student may engage in distribution, solicitation, fund-raising, or sales in the privacy of his or her own room. Deliveries may be made to the lounge area only if:

1. The commercial activity consists of demonstration of goods and services not only involving sales and is sponsored by that hall's council.
2. The commercial activity, including sales, is part of a fund-raising activity of the hall's council and is conducted in accordance with the restrictions of paragraph 4.02 of the Ball State policy concerning distribution, solicitation, fund-raising, sales, and commercial activity on university property.

Weapons are not permitted in the residence halls. This includes but is not limited to firearms, ammunition, explosives, tear gas, large knives, pellet guns, wrist rockets, catapults, dart guns, and devices that propel objects through the air. Recreational weapons such as but not limited to sling shots, stun guns, pellet guns, taser guns, air soft guns, etc., are not permitted in the residence halls. Objects that are used in the martial arts, such as nunchakus and bolas, and those used in hunting, such as bows and arrows, are not permitted in the residence halls. Students who use an object in the form of a weapon to injure someone is subject to discipline under this policy. Residence hall staff may search a room if there is reason to believe a weapon is located in the room. Violation of this policy may result in termination of the housing contract.

The only exception to this is legal chemical dispensing devices, such as pepper sprays that are sold commercially for personal protection.

Students may have small electrical appliances with unexposed, self-contained heating units. With the exception of microwaves, all cooking must be done in the community kitchens. Appliances that require an open flame, propane, gasoline, or hot grease such as deep fryers, or space heaters are not allowed to be used in or around any of the residence halls.

Specifically, students should plan to shop for small appliances with these features and/or usage guidelines:

• Panini or sandwich maker: Use in your kitchenette
• Toaster: Use in your kitchenette
• Toaster Oven: Please do not bring to campus
• Coffee Maker: Use one with automatic shutoff feature; can use in your room
• Hot Plates/Candle Warmers: Please do not bring to campus
• Clothes Iron: Use one with automatic shutoff feature; can use in your room with an ironing board
• Microwave Oven: Must be 800 watts or less
• InstaPot, Air Fryer, other steam cooking appliances: must be used in your kitchenette
• Other Items: Please call our office for guidance before purchasing or using.

Refrigerators operating on no more than 1.6 amps and no more than 5.0 cubic feet may be used in student rooms. Units should be placed on a stand or cart unless they have feet and back-mounted heat exchangers. Units may not be placed in closets. Units must be plugged into an Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) approved power strip or directly into the electrical outlet.

Hall directors reserve the right to require students to remove an appliance that does not fit the above requirements or that may be a foreseeable danger to the safety and security of the residents. Student rooms are periodically checked for health, safety, and maintenance issues.

Students also may rent MicroFridges.

Students living in the residence halls will have furniture provided in the room, including beds which are loftable or stackable. No purchase or renting is permitted. 

When lofting or stacking your loft in a student room, one window must remain completely free and clear of obstruction. Fire safety codes require at least three feet of space between the window and any items that could obstruct the window for use as an emergency entrance/exit.

Student rooms are checked for loft policy violations periodically. Hall directors reserve the right to require students to remove a loft that does not meet safety guidelines. Loft/bed units must be taken apart and removed from the hall when instructed to do so by hall staff. Loft disassembly must take place before the start of quiet hours at the end of each semester. Room occupants are responsible for any and all damages caused by the assembly or disassembly of such units.

Students are expected to not disrupt custodian's efforts to clean restrooms and common areas throughout the residence halls.

Custodians also maintain Noyer, Park, DeHority, Kinghorn, North Residence Hall, and other buildings with semi-private or private restroom areas on a weekly, routine basis.

Residents are asked to keep their personal belongings stored away on the designated cleaning day so staff can do a thorough job.

Cleaning efforts have been increased to help ensure proper sanitation of residence halls and minimize the spread of germs.

A community area is defined as any space and/or area outside a students' room. This includes but is not limited to stairwells, hallways, restrooms, lounges, elevators, entranceways, public lounges, recreation areas, and dining rooms. The use of a common area such as a residence hall lounge is limited to use by residents of that hall and by that hall's government. Students should not leave any personal belongings in community areas unless secured in bathroom lockers. Students should not congregate in areas not designed for this purpose.

Residence hall lobbies, lounges, and common areas including those that are shared with Ball State University Dining are reserved for residence hall students' use only. University organizations may not reserve or meet in any residence hall lobby, lounge, or common area, nor may a resident of a residence hall reserve or meet in their hall lobby or lounge for the specific purpose that supports a university organization. All lobby, lounge and/or common area programs or meetings must be sponsored by Housing and Residence Life staff (Resident Assistants, and Academic Peer Mentors) or hall council sponsored activities that are supervised and operated by Housing and Residence Life employees or hall council members. All lobby, lounge or common area reservations must be requested and approved by the residence hall director.

Students may not hang items from ceilings. Also, the use of acetate, cellophane, tissue paper, or other combustible materials over or in light fixtures is forbidden by fire regulations.

3M products are not permitted. A substitute product is provided free of charge during move-in at each hall desk. 

LED or Smart lighting strips are not permitted in any residence hall. 

Since many holiday decorations are highly combustible, special care must be taken in decorating. Cut live trees are NOT permitted in student rooms. Light cords used on artificial trees or in room decorations (including lights used in windows) must be Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) approved and should be checked for safety. Lights must be turned off when leaving the room. Window decorations celebrating the current holiday are permitted to be displayed but cannot obstruct the window. Live trees displayed in public lounges must be treated with flame-retardant material.

Residents are allowed to have visitors (any gender) with the approval of their roommate until midnight.

Guests (non-residents of a particular hall) are expected to follow all policies of the university. Residents are responsible for their guests and all actions of the guests while in the halls. Guests found in violation of residence hall or university policy will be asked to leave university property immediately. Guests must be escorted at all times in any area other than the main lounge. Keys will not be issued to guests. 

Guests from the ages of 13 and under the age of 18 must have parental/guardian permission to stay as a guest of a student living in a residence hall. The student hosting is responsible for ensuring their guests have the appropriate permission and are registered. Parental/Guardian permission forms are available online and at the residence hall front desks. Guests age 12 and under may not stay overnight in the residence halls (unless the guest is a legal dependent of the resident) and must leave the building no later than midnight.

Guests are not permitted to permanently live in the residence halls. If a guest is found to violate the spirit of the policy by living in the halls, they will be trespassed from the hall.

Ball State University does not carry insurance on students or their property and is not liable for personal property that may be lost, stolen, or damaged. Students are strongly encouraged to insure their personal belongings. 

Before pursuing personal property insurance, we advise for students to check with their parent/guardian to see if coverage is available as an addendum through their insurance.

Learn more about student property insurance here.

The quiet hours for all buildings are 11:00 p.m. to 9 a.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 1 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. During finals week of each semester, all halls will abide by a 24-hour quiet hour policy.

Any activity such as playing stereos, watching television, playing a musical instrument, yelling, tap dancing, slamming doors, horseplay, running or any activity that creates a disturbance is prohibited in the residence halls and areas surrounding residence halls, including (but not limited to) designated smoking areas, recreational spaces, and green spaces. Stereo speakers should not be faced out the windows. At all times, general courtesy should be exercised. Students are expected to demonstrate respect and comply with a request to reduce noise if asked by other students to do so.

Students are expected to practice appropriate personal hygiene and to maintain an environment within their room and community which is sanitary. Perishable food items should be stored in sealed containers and/or refrigerated. Trash and food debris should be disposed of in the designated trash location on the residence hall floor.

Studio apartment bathrooms, suite bathrooms, and semi-private bathrooms will be cleaned weekly by Housing and Residence Life custodians. The schedule indicating your cleaning date each week will be provided to you the first week of the semester. Personal items must be removed from these areas before the scheduled cleaning time.

Students must not tamper with the equipment as indicated by local city ordinances. If the battery needs to be replaced or there is a problem with a smoke detector, the student should immediately enter a work order at the “Fix My Home” Web site*. Do not remove batteries from smoke detectors or remove smoke detectors from the ceiling. Students who are found responsible for violating this policy will be placed on disciplinary probation.

*Make sure the pop-up window on your Internet browser is enabled in order to use the maintenance request software.

OPENINGS 
2021-2022 ACADEMIC YEAR HALL OPENINGS
Premium Plans - Halls Open: 9:00 a.m. - Wednesday, August 18.
Standard Plans - Halls Open: 9:00 a.m. - Thursday, August 19. 

THANKSGIVING BREAK 2021 HALL OPENING
Halls Open: 9:00 a.m. - Sunday, November 28, 2021.

'21-22 SEMESTER BREAK HALL OPENING
Halls Open: 9:00 a.m. - Sunday, January 9, 2022.

2022 SPRING BREAK HALL OPENING
Halls Open: 9:00 a.m. - Sunday, March 13, 2022.

BREAK CLOSINGS
All residence halls will close for the breaks implemented into the academic semester (i.e. fall and spring). During these breaks, students do not need to remove all of their personal items and belongings from their residence hall room. Removal of all personal items and belongings from a student's residence hall occurs in the spring at the end of the academic year.

Thanksgiving break 2021 Hall Closing
Halls Close: 8:00 a.m. - Wednesday, November 21, 2021. 

'21-22 semester break HALL CLOSING
Halls Close: 4:00 p.m. - Saturday, December 18, 2021. 

2022 Spring BREAK HALL CLOSING
Halls Close: 8:00 a.m. - Saturday, March 5, 2022. 

SPRING 2022 - END OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR HALL CLOSING
Halls Close: 8:00 a.m. - Sunday, May 8, 2022. You may request an extension by contacting your Residence Hall Director. 

Spring 2022 Check Out Procedure: 
Before you leave campus, you must check-out with a hall staff member when you are ready to leave. Being ready to leave means you have packed up your belongings, cleaned your room, and you’ve rearranged your furniture back to its original layout. When these steps are complete, please go to the front desk in your residence hall.

At the front desk you will: 

1. Scan a self-checkout QR Code
2. Sign your Room Inventory Form
3. Drop your room key off with the front desk worker

Keys: Your room key must be turned into a hall staff member before departing from campus. Do not mail keys after you have left. If you do not turn in your key prior to departing, you will be charged a fee for re-coring your room.  

Mail: Please forward your mail to your permanent address and stop placing online orders to your residence hall by May 1. Non-USPS Packages that are not picked up will be considered abandoned property. 

The Office of Housing and Residence Life is not responsible for forwarding packages on behalf of students or handling non-USPS Packages that are not picked up. Packages that are handled through the United States Postal Service (USPS) will experience a delay between arriving at the residence hall and being sent to the provided forwarding home address.

Abandoned Items/Recycling: If you have items (clothing, small appliances) and non-perishable food that you do not wish to take home, please consider donating these items. Check at your residence hall desk for the donation site for your building. Donated items will be given to local charities. 

Quiet Hours: 24-hour Quiet Hours begin at midnight, Friday, April 29 and end at 8 p.m., Saturday, May 7. Courtesy hours are daily from noon-1 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. You are encouraged to dismantle all lofts/bunk beds before Quiet Hours begin. 

Summer Housing: If you are taking summer classes at Ball State, Studebaker East will be available for summer residence hall housing. More information and an application for summer housing can be found here. 

General

• We believe solving problems ourselves respectfully first must be a high priority.
• We will treat others as we would like to be treated.
• We realize each of us has a responsibility of being accountable to each other for the noise level, acts of vandalism, behaviors, and choices which impact others.
• We realize our choices should at all times take into account the rights of others.
• We understand we are expected to be actively engaged in resolving issues that may arise with roommates, floor mates, and hall staff.
• We will be respectful of our peers in our behavior and how we choose to represent ourselves and how we choose to express ourselves.
• Each member of the community is expected to abide by the terms of these guidelines.
• Community members are expected to hold individuals accountable to these standards.

Academic Environment

• We agree that being a student must be a high priority.
• We agree living-learning community experiences enhance our personal understanding of majors, careers, and interest areas.
• We agree to be respectful of others and their need for a quiet study space.

Community Courtesy

• We understand we not only belong to a floor community, but a hall community as well. We need to respect all members of the community.
• We will always be courteous and civil with floor members and quests.
• When anyone asks us to lower our noise level, we will do so immediately.
• We agree to address concerns with our peers in a respectful manner when we have an issue to address.
• We will respectfully confront our peers when policy violations occur or when student rights are affected.
• If being confronted by our peers and/or staff we will be respectful and work towards a solution and/or comply.
• Residents are allowed to have visitors (any gender) with the approval of his/her roommate. All residence halls will have 24-hour/7-day visitation for the academic year.

Facilities

• We understand this floor and hall is our home.
• In instances of vandalism, we understand the community will be held responsible for damages if an individual cannot or will not accept responsibility for these actions.
• Residents are responsible for the use of kitchenettes in their communities as described by their hall staff. They are also responsible for all events that happen in the kitchen and any charges
• incurred when the key is in their possession.
• We agree to keep common areas free of personal belongings and will remove them upon departure of spaces. Common areas include but are not limited to lounges, kitchens and laundry facilities. 

Safety and Security

• Both residents and hall staff may confront situations that are safety and security risks.
• Residents and hall staff will not provide their room key or BSU ID to any person and will use their community check-in stations during designated hours and register any/all guests they have with them.
• Residents and hall staff will not grant access to any non-escorted guests through card access locations or prop open security doors.
• Residents will lock their doors and carry their keys when they leave their room.
• When we notice an exterior, card access, or bathroom door propped, we will un-prop it and notify the hall director or RA.
• When the fire alarm sounds, we will evacuate the building immediately.
• When a tornado, active shooter or other emergency is in progress we will adhere to staff instructions and safety protocols. 

Fill OUt Contract (PDF)

Students who find themselves without roommates because of cancellation, withdrawals, or room changes have the following options:

1. Pay a higher adjusted rate for the double accommodation as a single, if offered;
2. Room with another student; or
3. If offered, stay in the room (without paying as a single) with the understanding that at any time a new roommate will be assigned to the room and the option no longer exists to pay for the double as a single. Students without a roommate should consult with their hall director.

Because Ball State's room and board contract is considered a legal, binding document, students are strongly encouraged to review the contract prior to signing. Students will sign an electronic contract when first agreeing to live on campus. This contract will be updated during the online room sign up period when students agree to the terms and conditions electronically.

Review the contract terms and conditions for the term you are planning to live on campus.

• Academic year contract
• Spring only contract
• Summer only contract

The Office of Housing and Residence Life restricts access to residence hall facilities to residents and their escorted guests, and individuals conducting official university business. For those recognized Ball State University student organizations and activities, non-profit organizations, and commercial enterprises who wish to advertise in the residence halls the following guidelines have been established to assure our residents a safe and comfortable living environment as well as some degree of privacy.

Ball State University student organizations and activities, non-profit organizations, and commercial enterprises who wish to publicize events, services, or products in the form of a poster or flyer should send their materials to Nina Cook in LaFollette N-10 for official approval. Approved flyers and posters will be distributed to the residence halls and posted by hall staff. We recommend sending two flyers or posters per hall for a total of 34, or providing 165 which will allow enough to post one per floor plus the common areas of the hall. If the advertisement is in the form of a coupon or souvenir we request that you provide 50 for each hall for a maximum of 1,750. We would appreciate it if the coupons or souvenirs were bundled in packages of 50 for easy distribution.

Only one posting per event is allowed. All ads or flyers received from commercial enterprises will be placed in a designated space reserved for such organizations. All ads or flyers received by campus affiliated organizations will also have a designated space in which publicity may be posted. All flyers and ads taken from commercial enterprises and campus affiliated organizations will be posted in their designated space within the common areas of the halls only. We will not post any information for non-residence hall affiliated events or activities on residence hall floors.

Priority in the common areas will be given to all Student Life-affiliated and recognized groups. The Office of Housing and Residence Life reserves the rights to not post ads or flyers that are not in accordance with the mission statement of the Office of Housing and Residence Life or Ball State University policies. Please note that items can not be placed in student mailboxes that are not specifically addressed to an individual.

Markings or postings on exterior surfaces of residence halls and complexes also are prohibited; this includes but is not limited to writing messages on sidewalks using chalk or tape.

Housing and Residence Life provides a board on each room door in some residence halls. Students who reside in these halls can ONLY post items on the board provided. Students are prohibited from affixing postings to any area outside of the board. Students should not affix any other boards to the door. Students may be held responsible for any damage to that results from a violation of this policy. 

The Board of Trustees of Ball State University approved the following policy relating to student residency that became effective for students entering the university beginning in the fall 2005 semester:

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.

Students who qualify for an exemption from this policy include:

• 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.

*Having already signed a lease with an off-campus landlord will not be considered as a reason for an exemption.

All students who believe they qualify for an exemption for any of the reasons above must complete and apply for an exemption online. This exemption request should be received by our office no later than 30 days prior to the beginning of the first semester of enrollment. You are encouraged to not make any commitments for housing until you receive a written response from this office.

The following is a comprehensive list of student rights and responsibilities within the Office of Housing and Residence Life's disciplinary system at Ball State University. All students are responsible for reading and understanding these rights. Students have the right:

• To be presumed not in violation in all cases where the charge(s) against the accused is contested, and to have all the alleged violations evaluated based on a preponderance of the evidence.
• To be given notice of charges filed via BSU email, the person(s) filing charges, and notification of student rights in a reasonable amount of time from the date the charges were filed.
• To waive the 42-hour notice of a hearing and proceed to a disciplinary option in consideration of a more immediate disposition of the alleged violation(s). This request must be made in writing to the appropriate disciplinary body.
• To submit a summary and/or response of the incident via BSU email to the hearing officer after the initial incident report has been reviewed by the accused student. The student’s summary must be submitted to the appropriate disciplinary body at least one hour prior to a disciplinary hearing.
• To waive the right to a hearing if the accused admits to the violation.
• To a fair, expeditious hearing by a disciplinary body, which will hear cases in a reasonable amount of time upon receipt of charges filed against the accused. For violation of residence hall probation and violations that could result in housing contract cancellation, a student will have the option of a hearing with either an assistant director of Housing and Residence Life or the Conduct Board. In the event the Conduct Board is inoperative, the student shall receive a hearing by the appropriate assistant director of housing and residence life.
• To be given notice of the time and place of the disciplinary hearing at least 42 hours prior to the hearing. Notice shall be considered received upon delivery to a student's BSU email address unless the student can give just cause why such receipt substantially impaired adequate notice and preparation for the hearing. Failure to check BSU email will not invalidate such notice.
• To present evidence and witnesses to the incident on the accused own behalf. Witnesses may testify and answer questions posed during the hearing. If the accused is unable to locate or receive compliance from any student asked to testify, they may seek the assistance of the appropriate residence hall staff. However, the Office of Housing and Residence Life will not compel a student to testify against his or her will.
• To select an advisor who is present during the proceeding. An advisor of their choice may accompany the accused and accuser(s). The advisor may attend the disciplinary hearing and freely counsel and assist the accused, but not act as spokesperson, vocal advocate, or question witnesses.
• To challenge for cause any member of the Conduct Board with perceived bias. If the accused can establish bias on the part of the challenged member, the member will be excused and the remaining Conduct Board members will hear the case.
• To challenge the alleged violations and pose questions to the accuser(s) and witnesses. This will be conducted in a calm and respectful manner. The disciplinary body may determine the appropriateness of any question asked. They will retain the authority to question all witnesses and parties to the alleged violations.
• To be absent from the hearing. Should the accused elect not to appear, the hearing shall be held in his or her absence. No recommendation for the disposition of sanctions shall be based solely upon the failure of the accused student to answer charges or appear at the hearing.
• To be determined in violation or not in violation based on a preponderance of the evidence.
• To receive notice via BSU email of the decision in a reasonable amount of time. The notice shall specify if the accused has been found in violation or not in violation of residence hall policies and the disposition of any sanctions.
• To submit an appeal via BSU email or hard copy format within two administrative working days after the delivery of the decision of the board or hearing officer.

Door-to-door voter registration is permitted in the residence halls and University Apartment community at Ball State University under the following conditions:

1. Voter registration, polling, and applying for absentee ballots are permitted in the residence halls and University Apartment community.
2. Door-to-door campaigning is not permitted in accordance with the university solicitation policy.
3. Deputy student registrars and deputy party registrars are permitted to register voters.
4. Deputy registrars will carry credentials from the election board and possess a picture identification card.
5. Registration can occur between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., any day of the week, including weekends.
6. Groups involved in the registration process will contact the residence hall director of each residence hall or the University Apartment Office at least 48 hours prior to registration. A list of registrars and day and time of registration must be provided.
7. Registrars will check in and out of the residence hall front desk or University Apartment Office and will show credentials at the time of check in.
   For more information, please contact the associate director of Housing and Residence Life at Ball State University, LaFollette Complex, room N-10, (765) 285-800.
8. The last day for voter registration in the State of Indiana is Tuesday, October 9, 2018. General elections will be held Tuesday, November 6, 2018.
9. Absentee voting begins October 10th and ends by mail at 11:59 pm, October 29, 2018.

Any individual using the Ball State University computing network must comply with the Ball State Student Code Information Technology Users Policy. Illegal distribution or downloading of copyrighted materials is expressly forbidden. Computer equipment must meet specifications found on the Housing and Residence Life Web. In addition, wireless routers and wireless devices are not permitted in the residence halls. Students found to be utilizing programs that take more bandwidth than is customary for typical academic assignments may have their computer port turned off pending review by proper university officials.

*Please note: When a student shares unauthorized copyrighted materials (i.e. movies, music, programs) with other computer users, whether on a personal computer or in a computer lab, it is a violation of the university's policies and your actions may result in legal action by the music and/or film industry.

Computer labs are accessible only to residents living in the halls or complex in which the lab is located. Noyer and Studebaker West computer labs are available to all residence hall and University Apartment residents during the hours of operation. Lab equipment priority should be given to those with academic purposes. Students may not save anything to the hard drive of the computer in the labs. All problems should be reported to the lab assistant or hall desks.

The Student Code Information Technology Users Policy additionally includes the prevention of unauthorized network devices from being connected to the campus network for any reason. (This includes but is not limited to, wireless routers, wired routers, DHCP servers, media center servers, etc.) When rogue devices are detected or reported to Information Technology Services (ITS) networking then disables the port(s) that are associated to the device. HRL Tech Support will then report the violation to the assistant directors of Housing and Residence Life. Residence hall directors or apartment managers will then contact the residents in the room that was detected as violating the policy. A first time violator will be required to disconnect and power off the networking device before the port can be re-enabled by ITS networking staff. A second time violation will result in a port shutdown pending a disciplinary hearing.

Music and video downloading has become an integral part of the Internet, especially for college students. Peer to peer (P2P) networks allow users to link up with one another and share files, providing a nearly unlimited supply of music, movies, and videos. However, downloading copyright protected materials without the consent of the copyright holder is illegal. Those that are found to have illegally downloaded copyrighted music and/or movies are subject to Criminal Penalties and/or Civil Penalties ranging from $750 per work infringed to as high as $30,000.

Ball State University's Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities require users of BSU computer-related resources to comply with all applicable laws including, but not limited to, those related to copyright and trademark.

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) is a trade group which represents most of the major record labels. The RIAA routinely monitors popular file sharing Web sites so as to identify users' IP addresses. An organization called the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) performs a similar function for the film industry. An IP address does not identify an individual; therefore, RIAA's attorneys will contact the internet provider to obtain the names of file-sharers. While many internet providers (including many universities) will not willingly turn over their customer's information, the RIAA has been successful in obtaining subpoenas to obtain identifying information. Since July 1, 2008, over 20,000 lawsuits have been filed by the RIAA and countless "pre-litigation settlement

letters" have been sent to students from various universalities nationwide offering to settle claims of copyright infringement (usually in the range of $3,000 to $5,000) with the student prior to filing suit. If the student fails to settle with the RIAA it can be assumed that the student will be sued.

Students living in the residence halls and University Apartments are not permitted to use wireless routers or devices that transmit a wireless signal, like a wireless printer, cell phone hot spot, gaming system, or other appliance in the rooms/apartments. When a wireless device is in use, the official Ball State wireless service is cut off to your neighbors, not allowing them to enjoy Internet access. Therefore, routine checks of all buildings are conducted regularly. Residents in violation will be asked to disable the wireless device immediately and will be subject to the Housing and Residence Life discipline process after the second offense.

If you suspect a wireless device in use in your building, contact the Technology Help Desk at 765-285-1517.

Each student must notify housing staff of his or her decision to leave the residence hall. He or she must fill out, sign, and return a completed room inventory sheet, and have the room checked by a staff member. Failure to do so will result in a $25 fee. A student may also be charged an improper check-out fee for missing or being late for a pre-scheduled check-out meeting with a housing staff member, or not leaving the residence hall by the designated closing time.

You must notify the residence hall director or your RA at least 24 hours in advance! You must check out with a staff member present during desk hours.

Please consult with hall staff about specific check out procedures for your hall. Also, watch our video for tips on moving out.

General steps to follow for check out:

1. Remove all trash to the trash bin on each floor. Bulk items should be taken to the building's dumpster.
2. Return all hall equipment to the desk.
3. Return all dining utensils and trays to the nearest dining service location.
4. Make sure all original furniture is in the room.
5. Restore room to original condition and configuration, including sweeping and mopping the floor.
6. Double-check and thoroughly clean the drawers and closet to make sure nothing is left behind.
7. Leave mattress pad and cable TV cord in room.
8. Move all belongings from the room and out of the building.
9. Make sure all paperwork is completed and your forwarding address change is submitted online.
10. When ready to check out please contact the staff member you have made previous arrangements with to complete the check out process.

Residents and their guests are not to be in the halls without permission from the Office of Housing and Residence Life, as well as the escort provided by the Office of Housing and Residence Life during designated closing days and times.

The last resident to leave your room should make sure that the following tasks are complete:

1. Leave the heater on low (after fall semester and spring break only).
2. Unplug all electrical appliances except for wireless Internet boxes.
3. Turn alarm clocks/timers off.
4. Empty all garbage from trash cans into trash room receptacles on each floor.
5. Close and lock windows. First floor residents should close curtains. Other floors should leave curtains open.
6. Water plants and feed fish. (Staff will NOT care for plants or fish over the break.)
7. Turn off lights.
8. Lock door.

The last person to leave should put the checklist on the door provided by RA staff. Be aware that it is possible that there may be power failures during the break periods. These may cause aquariums not to function properly and fish may die, so you may want to take them home with you.

During the break, staff will check each room for safety and security reasons. We do NOT look through resident's desks, closets, or personal items.