Move-In 2026

Move-in day marks the beginning of your experience at Ball State, filled with opportunities for growth, friendship, and academic achievement!

As you prepare to settle into your new home away from home, we want to ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible. Below, you'll find important information and helpful resources to make your transition seamless. We're here to support you every step of the way and look forward to welcoming you to campus! 

Spring 2026

Move-in for students beginning in Spring 2026 will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 4. Students should plan to arrive no earlier than this time.

On your move-in day, be sure to first stop by your hall's front desk to complete the check-in process, pick up your keys, and receive any important information to help you settle into campus life.

Move-In Days for First-Year Students

  • Sunday, August 16
  • Monday, August 17

To ensure a smooth transition into campus life, move-in days for first-year students are Sunday, August 16 and Monday, August 17. These move-in dates align with important events designed to help incoming students connect with peers, learn about campus resources, and prepare for a successful start to their Ball State journey!

 

Move-In Appointments

Move-in appointments will be available to schedule on the housing portal starting July 28.

Move-In Day for Returning Students

  • Thursday, August 20, 2026

Move-In Appointments

Move-in appointments will be available to schedule on the housing portal starting July 28.

If you are participating in one of the many special programs or services that requires a move-in date before August 16, please pay close attention to the information provided by your program’s group leader, as they will communicate all the pertinent details you need to know regarding your arrival date.

While your move-in day may differ, there are a few consistent steps to follow:

  • Schedule a Move-In Appointment: Use the housing portal to select a move-in time that aligns with your program’s schedule.
  • Follow Directional Signage: On your move-in day, follow signage and guidance from the University Police Department (UPD) to ensure a smooth arrival.
  • Check In First: Stop at your assigned residence hall to check in before unloading and unpacking your belongings.
  • Arrive On Time: Follow the specific instructions or arrival time provided by your group leader. If you are unable to arrive at the designated time, communicate directly with your group leader as soon as possible.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure a seamless move-in experience. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your program’s leadership team or Housing and Residence Life for assistance.

What to Bring

Wondering what all you should bring for your new room?  We have some recommendations to help as you prepare for your big move! Ultimately, make sure to bring things that will make your space feel comfortable and like your very own.

What to Expect

Move-in day on Ball State's campus is truly exciting! Please review the following items so that you are prepared and have an idea of what to expect come your actual move-in day.

  • Follow directional signage and the guidance of University Police
    When you arrive on campus, there will be directional signage for each residence hall. Also, please follow the guidance of University Police and parking staff who are there to ensure roads are accessible and the traffic flow is running smooth on campus.

  • Go to your residence hall BEFORE unpacking your car
    It's extremely important to make sure that you are in the correct location before putting in the work of unloading all of the items you brought for your new space.

  • Check-in at your hall's welcome table or tent
    Each hall will have an established welcome table where you will get your room key, important information, and will utilize the QR code sent to your Ball State email (from the move-in appointment time you scheduled) to become officially checked-in for the Academic Year.
  • Utilize move-in equipment
    We will have bellhop style carts available for students to use at our halls. These are usually in high demand, so please be patient with our staff if you are wanting/needing one and need to wait until one becomes available. It's welcomed for students to bring their own dolly or cart to assist with move in. 
Parking and Shuttles

PARKING

When you arrive on campus, park only in designated areas. Do not park on sidewalks, near barricades, in roundabouts, or in drives—vehicles will be asked to move or towed to Scheumann Stadium if left unattended.

Use the family parking map to locate yellow or green lots (outlined in red) where you can park while assisting with move-in. No vehicles should be left in any lot overnight during move-in dates.

Students must move their cars to their designated parking spots as soon as possible. Vehicles not moved by the end of the day may be ticketed or towed. Overnight parking is only allowed at Scheumann Stadium.

For questions regarding on-campus parking, please contact Parking Services.


SHUTTLES

Campus shuttles will be running beginning the week of move-in with limited routing. Additional shuttle service will be provided on Sunday, August 16 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. between the Stadium Lot and residence halls to accommodate students moving their vehicles. 

For questions regarding on-campus shuttle buses and transportation, please contact Transportation Services.


Frequently Asked Questions

Questions?

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