Student sitting at desk with laptop in their residence hall room

Student Communication

Residence Life uses students' WMU email accounts for all business-related communication.
Copies of key information and updates can be viewed here.

Residence Halls

  • 11/13/20 - Nov. 20 and Thanksgiving Break details

    The end of in-person classes and the opportunity to go home for Thanksgiving break is almost here.  Please review the information on our website about what to do if you are:

    • Leaving Nov. 20 but returning spring semester
    • Leaving Nov. 20 and not returning spring semester
    • Staying for Thanksgiving break
    • Leaving for Thanksgiving break

    Staff will be doing supervised room checks beginning at noon Wednesday, Nov. 23. The checks are for maintenance and safety inspections, and they are done while still respecting your privacy.  If you have questions about room checks, please see your hall director.

    For anyone traveling, we encourage you to take advantage of the rapid-result COVID testing opportunity at Sindecuse Health Center before you depart.  Students get two free tests, and any tests due to having active COVID symptoms are covered. Schedule your appointment via the patient portal.

     

    December closing

    The residence halls close at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec, 18.  If you are returning spring semester, you do not need to move all your belongings home. Just take what you need with you since there will not be access to your building during winter recess.

     

    January move-in

    For those returning spring semester, we will be sending information in early December about spring move-in. Students will sign up for an arrival time so we can spread out when people return.  Move-in will be Jan. 9 and 10, and meal service resumes Jan. 10. 

     

    Housing and Residence Life Staff
    Taking a stand: Housing and Residence Life Call to Action

  • 11/4/2020 - Spring 2021 housing credit, cancel contract information

    Subject:  Spring 2021 Housing credit details

     

    Under the University’s revised academic calendar for the 2020-21 academic year, most in-person instruction is ending March 25, 2021. In response to that change, WMU has several options to consider.

    Can I cancel my Housing contract?

    For spring 2021, if all of your classes will be delivered via distance education and you choose to complete your course work from home, you will be allowed to cancel your housing contract with no penalty if you do so by 5 p.m. on Dec 18. To cancel your contract, sign into the housing portal, click on Contract/License Cancellation Request and then follow the prompts.

    You must have already registered for classes and all of your classes must be completely online before you submit a cancellation request.  When your request is processed, you will receive an approved cancellation email to your WMU email account and your cancellation will be complete. Requests will be processed in two batches, one on December 4 and one on December 21.  If you do not cancel by Dec. 18, and you decide to do so later, you will be subject to our updated spring 2021 cancellation schedule, which can be found on the housing website.  Any student who is enrolled in one or more in person and/or hybrid classes will not have the option to cancel. 

    You may continue to live on campus until the end of spring semester per your housing contract. If you opt to leave campus housing, your move out date would be by Friday March 26 at 7pm.   You will have one opportunity to apply for a housing and dining credit. 

    Do I have to leave March 26?

    No.  You may remain in your room until the residence halls close at the end of spring semester (7 p.m. Friday, April 29, 2021). Many on-campus resources will continue to be available between March 26 and April 29.  Dining Services will remain open with modified dining services.

     I plan to leave March 26.  How do I get the credit?

    Students planning to leave March 26 must apply for the housing and dining credit by completing an early move-out request. The request is located on the housing portal (housing portal >> Residence Halls >> Early Move-out Request). There is one application period, and students must meet all eligibility requirements.

    Application Period

    Credit Applied

    Jan. 25 to Feb. 26, 2021

    Prior to March 26

    How much is the credit?

    If you have a meal plan, the housing and dining credit is $1,060.  If you do not have a meal plan, the housing credit is $530. 

    What are the eligibility requirements for the credit?

    • You must complete the early move-out request by 5 p.m. EST Feb. 26, 2021.
    • You must be living in the residence halls during the fall 2020 semester as of Feb. 4.  These credits are not available to students who move out of the halls on Feb. 4 or before.
    • You must check out and turn in your keys, per the checkout process established in your hall, on or before March 26, 2021.  If you do not check out on or before March 26, 2021 and turn in your keys, your account will be adjusted and you will be responsible for the full amount of room and board originally billed to your student account.

    You may not be eligible for the credit if you have received institutional funds for room and board, including, but not limited to, student athlete scholarship recipients, resident assistants and room grant recipients.  If you have received institutional funds, your credit may be reduced or you may receive no credit.  If you have questions about the amount of credit that you received, you should contact Bronco Express.

    How is the credit applied? Do I get a refund check?

    The credit is applied to your student account.  If you have outstanding charges on your account, the credit will first be applied to them.  If credit funds remain, a refund for the credit balance will be processed.  Refunds will be processed through accounts receivable and either will be transmitted electronically to the financial institution you established for e-refunds or mailed to the mailing address established on your account. 

    For example:

    Account balance due before credit

    $400

    Housing and dining credit applied

    +$1,060

    Refund to be issued

    $660

    How was the credit amount determined?

    The residence halls were scheduled to be open for 111 days during spring 2021. Students have the option of moving out of the halls by March 26, missing 35 of those days. About half of the costs of operating a residence hall are variable, and about half are fixed. A variable cost varies from day to day. Examples are perishable food and student staffing. Fixed costs are incurred for the entire year, cannot be liquidated, and make it possible for the facilities to exist and operate. Examples are building debt service, contracted services and building maintenance. 

    Moving out on March 26 will cause students to miss about 32% of their time in the halls. The variable portion of that loss is approximately 16%. Using that calculation, and rounding up, the University arrived at a $1,060 credit.

    About half of the cost of a room and meal plan is the room portion and the other half is the meal portion. The room-only credit of $530 is half of the credit of $1,060.

    How do I checkout on March 26?

    You must turn your keys into your hall office prior to leaving campus on or before March 26, 2020.  More checkout details will be shared by hall staff during your floor meetings in the coming weeks. 

    If I opt to stay after March 26, do I need to do anything?

    No.  You will remain in your room until the residence halls close at the end of fall semester (7 p.m. Friday, April 29).

    Housing and Residence Life

    Taking a stand: Housing and Residence Life Call to Action

     

  • 10/19/2020 - Housing credit reminder, other updates

    Subject:  Housing credit, other reminders

     

    Housing credit = 11 days left to apply

    Students planning to leave campus Nov. 20 are eligible for a housing and dining credit.  The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30.  There are no extensions or exceptions. If you are not sure of your plans for Nov. 20, you can still complete the early move-out form in the housing portal (residence halls >> early move out form) and notify us you decided to stay. 

    Do I have to move out Nov. 20?

    No.  Students are welcome to stay, and campus services like dining will still be open. 

    If I leave Nov. 20, do I take all my stuff?

    No.  If you are planning to return to campus housing spring semester, you would take home essential items and leave the rest. Access to the hall will not be available.  If you do not plan to return in the spring, you would remove all your belongings and return the key to check out.  Details will be emailed to students in mid-November.

    Resident check-in

    Health badges as well as student IDs are now required when entering the building after 5 p.m.  Please have your badge ready to show rather than completing the questionnaire at the desk. It will help keep lines moving. The recommendation for showing badges was made by the county health department. 

    Voting

    Today is the last day to register to vote or request a Michigan absentee ballot online. After Oct. 19, students planning to vote in Kalamazoo can stop by the city clerk’s office in 105-106 Bernhard Center to register or turn in absentee ballots.  TurboVote is a site that can help you register to vote, no matter which state in which you plan to vote.

    If you are registered to vote in Kalamazoo and plan to vote in person on election day, your polling place is the Bernhard Center.  Anticipate lines.

    Recommended non-partisan sites for ballot information include the League of Women Voters and vote411.org.  WMU’s WeVote site also has great voter education information.

    Housing and Dining Survey

    Click the survey link in your WMU email to give us feedback about Grab’n Go dining, housing staff and more.  Survey ends Nov. 1.  Your feedback does shape changes housing and dining makes. 

    Housing and Residence Life 

    Taking a stand:  Housing and Residence Life Call to Action

     

  • 10/7/2020 – COVID message to all WMU students, residence hall procedures mentioned

    Dear WMU community,

    We affirmed this week that our COVID-19 safety policies would remain in effect following the recent Michigan Supreme Court decision to strike down the governor's emergency powers enforcing COVID-19-related safety mandates.

    But the effectiveness of our health and safety measures—consistently wearing a mask, social distancing, washing hands, staying home when ill, taking the daily health monitoring survey, displaying your badge when asked and getting tested for the virus at the earliest sign of symptoms—rests on everyone following these practices. All of us must stay vigilant by adhering to all safety guidelines at all times.

    Largely, we are seeing strong compliance across the campus community. In-person classes continue to be safe, and we thank those who have been following the rules. But, in recent days, we also have had instances in four residence halls where not all of our community members have been compliant and thus experienced the consequences. I implore you to continue following safety practices intended to protect your health and the health of your fellow Broncos. The novel coronavirus is still present in our world and this highly transmissible infection remains a threat.

    When rules are violated, we have employed disciplinary sanctions through our Student Code of Conduct, including suspension from the University. At the earliest sign of any problem, consistent with our response throughout the pandemic, we will and are taking actions to eliminate the potential for exposure and spread.

    To that end, we will be removing furniture in common spaces or locking lounges in the residence halls where we have seen an increase in COVID-19 cases in recent days. At all student residences on campus, we will continue to enforce our guest policy. Students may have one visitor, but it must be a resident from their own hall or apartment, and visitors may not spend the night. When entering a residence hall—or anywhere else on campus—students should be ready to display the badge indicating they have taken the daily health survey.

    For the halls where we have seen an increase in coronavirus cases, those residents have received a separate message with information germane to their buildings. Anyone who may have been exposed to the virus has been contacted through our contact tracing protocols.

    Our COVID-19 measures have been established to foster a healthy campus environment so that we can continue to deliver a safe and high-quality on-campus experience. But each of us must behave responsibly to ensure this occurs. Don't let your guard down.

    Be smart. Be safe. Be Broncos.

    Sincerely,
    Dr. Diane K. Anderson
    Vice President for Student Affairs

  • 10/1/2020 - Resident check-in at the desk as you enter hall begins Oct. 5, 2020

    Subject:  Resident check-in begins Oct. 5

    Starting Monday, Oct. 5, residents must show their WMU ID at the front desk in order to continue into the building.  ID checks will be daily, and begin when the desk opens at 5 p.m.  Please have your ID ready to show so it can be compared to the building photo roster.  All students will be checked each time they enter, even if the desk worker knows you. 

    Please be patient with lines during high-traffic times.  Continue to maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet while in line.

    Why check IDs?

    The ID check procedure will provide an added measure of responsibility and accountability in our communities. It will reduce non-residents gaining access to your building. 

    Housing and Residence Life Staff
    Taking a stand:  Housing and Residence Life Call to Action
    (269) 387-4735

  • 9/14/2020 - Fall 2020 housing credit details, application period

    Subject:  Housing credit details, application period

    We hope move-in and the start of classes is going well. This fall, most in-person instruction is ending November 20, 2020. You may continue to live on campus until the end of fall semester per your housing contract. If you opt to leave campus housing on Nov. 20, you have two opportunities to apply for a housing and dining credit. 

    Do I have to leave Nov. 20?

    No.  You may remain in your room until the residence halls close at the end of fall semester (7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, 2020). Many on-campus resources will continue to be available between Nov. 20 and Dec. 18.  Dining Services will remain open with modified dining services.

     I plan to leave Nov. 20.  How do I get the credit?

    Students planning to leave Nov. 20 must apply for the housing and dining credit by completing an early move-out request. The request is located on the housing portal (housing portal >> Residence Halls >> Early Move-out Request). There are two application periods, and students must meet all eligibility requirements.

    Application Period

    Credit Applied

    Sept. 14 to Oct. 2, 2020

    End of October

    Oct. 3 to 5 p.m. EST Oct. 30, 2020

    Prior to Nov. 20

    How much is the credit?

    If you have a meal plan, the housing and dining credit is $860.  If you do not have a meal plan, the housing credit is $430. 

    What are the eligibility requirements for the credit?

    • You must complete the early move-out request by 5 p.m. EST Oct. 30, 2020.
    • You must have an active residence hall contract for fall 2020 as of Oct. 2, 2020.  These credits are not available to students who move out of the halls on Oct. 2 or before.
    • You must check out and turn in your keys, per the checkout process established in your hall, on or before November 20, 2020.  If you do not check out on or before November 20, 2020 and turn in your keys, your account will be adjusted and you will be responsible for the full amount of room and board originally billed to your student account.

    You may not be eligible for the credit if you have received institutional funds for room and board, including, but not limited to, student athlete scholarship recipients, resident assistants and room grant recipients.  If you have received institutional funds, your credit may be reduced or you may receive no credit.  If you have questions about the amount of credit that you received, you should contact Bronco Express.

    How is the credit applied? Do I get a refund check?

    The credit is applied to your student account.  If you have outstanding charges on your account, the credit will first be applied to them.  If credit funds remain, a refund for the credit balance will be processed.  Refunds will be processed through accounts receivable and either will be transmitted electronically to the financial institution you established for e-refunds or mailed to the mailing address established on your account. 

    For example:

    Account balance due before credit

    $400

    Housing and dining credit applied

    +$860

    Refund to be issued

    $460

    How was the credit amount determined?

    The residence halls were scheduled to be open for 110 days during fall 2020. Students have the option of moving out of the halls by Nov. 20, missing 28 of those days. About half of the costs of operating a residence hall are variable, and about half are fixed. A variable cost varies from day to day. Examples are perishable food and student staffing. Fixed costs are incurred for the entire year, cannot be liquidated, and make it possible for the facilities to exist and operate. Examples are building debt service, contracted services and building maintenance. 

    Moving out on Nov. 20 will cause students to miss about 25% of their time in the halls. The variable portion of that loss is approximately 12.5%. Using that calculation, and rounding up, the University arrived at a $860 credit.

    About half of the cost of a room and meal plan is the room portion and the other half is the meal portion. The room-only credit of $430 is half of the credit of $860.

    How do I checkout on Nov. 20?

    You must turn your keys into your hall office prior to leaving campus on or before November 20, 2020.  More checkout details will be shared by hall staff during your floor meetings in the coming weeks. 

    If I opt to stay after Nov. 20, do I need to do anything?

    No.  You will remain in your room until the residence halls close at the end of fall semester (7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18).

    When do the halls close for winter break?

    Residence halls will close for winter break at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, 2020.  If you are planning to return to WMU spring semester, you would take home essential items and leave the rest. Access to the hall will not be available.  If you do not plan to return in the spring, you would remove all your belongings and return the key to check out.  Details will be emailed to students in mid-November. 

    Housing and Residence Life

    Taking a stand: Housing and Residence Life Call to Action

  • 8/16/2020 - New student reminder - Aug. 18 deadline to submit student ID photo

    Get your WMU student ID!

    Tuesday, Aug. 18, is the deadline to submit a photo for your college ID. Those who meet the deadline will have their ID waiting for them when they check into their residence hall. All residence halls are swipe access, meaning you need your ID to get into the building and through inner security doors to you room.

    Submit your photo: https://photo.wmupd.wmich.edu/

    Contact Public Safety at (269) 387-6278 if you have questions.

  • 8/7/2020 - New student move-in assignment

    Your move-in assignment is below. We do not have flexibility to change assignments due to caps set for each arrival block at your building.

    Field – time

    Field – day

    Field – room and hall

     

    Move-in safety precautions

    • Limited to 2 move-in helpers
    • Face coverings/masks required at all times you are outside your room
    • Elevators limited to one family at a time 
    • Doorways propped open for touchless passage during peak move-in times
    • Extra custodial staff on site
    • If you are opting to do the free COVID-19 test at Sindecuse Health Center, please complete the survey link by 5 p.m. Aug. 10.  See email sent July 27.

    Before arriving on campus

    The day you are scheduled to arrive on campus, please: 

    • Complete the online check-in the housing portal:  Residence Halls >> Online Check-in
    • Complete the COVID-19 questionnaire (link will be included in an Aug. 17 move-in email)
    • Check the Golden Gateway for your QR code needed to check in for Fall Welcome
    • Bring a photo ID

    Take a screenshot of the online check-in and COVID questionnaire when you are done.  You will be asked to show the confirmation screens at the door before you can enter.

    WMU Dining Services is limiting dining to enrolled students and Fall Welcome program staff only during move-in. Please plan accordingly and eat before or after moving into your hall at an off-campus location, or pack your own beverages and meals. 

    When you arrive

    Volunteers will greet you outside your hall to issue an unloading pass and direct you where to unload.  While students go inside to check in, family/friends will unload the vehicle and move it to park for the day.  A map showing  where to park is online.

    Vendor deadlines for in-room delivery are coming up! Microfridge and carpet orders are due Aug. 13.

    Click here for more information about move-in.

    WMU ID

    To get your WMU student ID, please submit a photo by Aug. 18. Your ID will at your residence hall when you arrive.

    If you have questions, please contact us at WMU_housing@wmich.edu or (269) 387-4735.

     

    Thank you,

    Housing and Residence Life Staff

    Taking a stand:  Housing and Residence Life Call to Action

  • 8/6/2020 - Local student drop off invite, directions (new students within 50 miles of WMU)

    As a local student, Housing and Residence Life invites you to drop off belongings to your residence hall room prior to fall move-in Aug. 27-30. You are not required to do so, but taking advantage of this courtesy means avoiding crowds later in August.

    Drop off days are:

    • Kalamazoo County residents: 7-9:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20
    • Residents within 50 miles of WMU: 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23
      • A – M arrive 2-4 p.m.
      • N – Z arrive 4-6 p.m.

    What to know

    We will loan you your room key so you can put things in your room.  When you are done, put the key back in its envelope and return it via the outgoing mail slot (directions provided onsite).  On your assigned move-in day Aug. 27-30, you will return to the check-in station to get your key back. Students who do not return keys will be billed a nightly rate ($40-50/night) until their assigned move-in day Aug. 27-30.

    The day you are scheduled to arrive, please complete the following before or during your drive to campus:

    • Complete the online check-in the housing portal:  Residence Halls >> Online Check-in
    • Complete the COVID-19 questionnaire (link will be included in an Aug. 17 move-in email)
    • Bring a photo ID

    Take a screenshot of the online check-in and COVID questionnaire when you are done.  You will be asked to show the confirmation screens at the door before you can enter.

    Safety precautions

    • Limited to 2 move-in helpers
    • Face coverings/masks required at all times you are outside your room
    • Elevators limited to one family at a time 
    • Doorways propped open for touchless passage during peak move-in times
    • Hand sanitizer stations in the lobby and sanitizer at the check-in station
    • If you are opting to do the free COVID-19 test at Sindecuse Health Center, please do it on your assigned move-in day Aug. 27-30 vs. on the drop off days.  See email sent July 27.

    Parking 

    You may unload onto the grass in front of your hall, then move your car.  That will make space for other vehicles that are arriving.  You are able to park in the parking lots around the residence halls while you drop things off.  Cars should not be left in the parking lots until your assigned move-in day Aug. 27-30.

    Miscellaneous

    We will have a limited number of large bins to assist getting things to your room.  You will check them out when you arrive.  If you borrow one, please return it to the cart check-out zone.  You are welcome to bring your own carts and dollies too.

    If you ordered a carpet, futon or microfridge from our vendors, they will not be in your room on the drop off days. Carpets are arriving Aug. 21, and futon and microfridges arrive Aug. 24-26.

    Please excuse our “we’re in progress” status when you arrive. We are training our staff and preparing for move-in.

    To get your WMU student ID, please submit a photo by Aug. 18.  Your ID will be available for pick up on your formal move-in day Aug. 27 – 29.

    Click here for more information about move-in.

    If you have questions or a conflict, please contact us at WMU_housing@wmich.edu or (269) 387-4735.

     

    Thank you,

    Housing and Residence Life Staff

    Taking a stand:  Housing and Residence Life Call to Action

  • 8/6/2020 - Returning student move-in survey, updates

    Housing and Residence Life is making a lot of changes to keep everyone safe during move-in; that includes an online check-in and spreading out arrivals. To help us plan, please let us know when you will be returning to campus Aug. 30 – Sept. 1 by completing the survey link below by Aug. 15.

    https://www.sais.wmich.edu/SelectSurvey/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=74KM4743

    We will notify you by Aug. 17 if enough people are coming to your hall on the same day that we need to do assigned arrival times.

    Move-in safety precautions

    • Limited to 2 move-in helpers

    • Face coverings/masks required at all times you are outside your room

    • Elevators limited to one family at a time

    • Doorways propped open for touchless passage during peak move-in times

    • Extra custodial staff on site

    • If you are opting to do the free COVID-19 test at Sindecuse Health Center, please complete the survey link by 5 p.m. Aug. 10.  See email sent July 27.

    Before arriving on campus

    The day you are scheduled to arrive on campus, please: 

    • Complete the online check-in the housing portal:  Residence Halls Online Check-in

    • Complete the COVID-19 questionnaire (link will be included in an Aug. 17 move-in email)

    • Bring a photo ID

    Take a screenshot of the online check-in and COVID questionnaire when you are done. You will be asked to show the confirmation screens at the door before you can enter.

    WMU Dining Services is limiting dining to enrolled students and Fall Welcome program staff only during move-in. Please plan accordingly and eat before or after moving into your hall at an off-campus location, or pack your own beverages and meals. 

    When you arrive

    Volunteers will greet you outside your hall to issue an unloading pass and direct you where to unload.  While students go inside to check in, family/friends will unload the vehicle and move it to park for the day.  A map showing  where to park is online.

    Click here for more information about move-in.

    Vendor deadlines for in-room delivery are coming up!  Microfridge and carpet orders are due Aug. 13.

    If you have questions, please contact us at WMU_housing@wmich.edu or (269) 387-4735.

     

    Housing and Residence Life Staff

    Taking a stand: Housing and Residence Life Call to Action

  • 7/27/2020 - WMU COVID testing at move-in

    As we prepare for fall and students returning to campus, our utmost priority is the health and safety of the entire WMU community.  As such, we highly recommend students living on campus to do a COVID-19 test with Sindecuse Health Center the day they arrive on campus and prior to checking in at their residence hall or apartment. Testing is provided with no out-of-pocket costs for students. That means that Sindecuse will bill insurance for those who have it.  WMU will cover co-pays and any remaining balances related to testing. Those without insurance will be tested at no charge.

    Testing encompasses a nasal pharyngeal swab that is collected by a Sindecuse provider. After the sample is taken, the test is rapid and will have results in 15 to 30 minutes. Results will be posted to your patient portal account, and you will be notified they are ready via a secure email message from the health center. If there is a positive result, you will be called and provided appropriate guidance from Sindecuse health professionals.

    If you would like to take advantage of being tested, please complete the link below by 5 p.m. EST Aug.10.  You will be notified via your Western email of your testing appointment time and other important details. 

    https://www.sais.wmich.edu/SelectSurvey/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=l8KM46l0

    If a student tests positive, they will be asked to return home for up to 14 days.  If a student is unable to return home, housing has set aside a limited number of isolation spaces on campus.  We will work with you to notify professors of your status.

    If you have questions about the testing procedures, please contact Sindecuse at (269) 387-3287 or via their online contact form. 

    Sincerely,

    Housing and Residence Life
    Sindecuse Health Center

  • 7/24/2020 - Roommate information, guest rule, updates

    Roommate information and floor plans are live!

    If you need your roommate’s contact information or a floor map to see where your room is located, the information is now available.  Log into the housing system and choose View My Assignments. 

    If you have questions, please contact the Housing and Residence Life office at (269) 387-4735 or WMU-housing @wmich.edu.  We are unable to share suitemate information.

    How do I Change My Housing Assignment?

    If you would like to change your residence hall assignment, you can enter the housing system starting July 27 at 10 a.m. EST.  Because more than 3,000 students are in rooms, you may need to look at multiple halls or floors to fine a new space.

    • Roommate groups used during room selection are not used during room change. If you had a roommate group and both you and your roommate wish to change rooms, you must each complete your own room change. (You must both pick the same empty room, one at a time.)
    • Hint:  The building dropdown menu on the left indicates how many open spaces are in the hall.  Hit the down arrow by the hall name, and you will see the number of spaces on each floor in parenthesis.  Rooms with an open bed are outlined in green. 

    Room changes will be open until 5 p.m. August 6, and you are limited to 5 total changes.  You can make changes once per 24-hour period.

    Move-in Information

    Move-in will be in late August.  New students will be emailed Aug. 7 with their assigned arrival day and time.  Athletes and Bronco Marching Band will receive information from their coach or the band director.

    • International students: Aug. 25
    • New students: (assigned days and arrival times)
      • Aug. 27: aviation majors, College of Education and Human Development majors, Lee Honors College, ROTC, AFROTC
      • Aug. 28: engineering majors, First Year Experience courses, transfer students participating in Fall Welcome
      • Aug. 29: remaining first-year students
      • New students who are local will be invited to drop off belongings early and return on their designated move in day Aug. 27-29.
    • Transfer students not participating in Fall Welcome:  Aug. 30 – Sept. 1
    • Returning students:  Aug. 30 – Sept. 1

    Click here for the full schedule and details about our move-in process, including recommended onsite COVID testing prior to checking in.

    What to Expect this Fall

    We are looking forward to welcoming you in August, but some things will be different. New policies and procedures are in place that focus on student health and well-being.  Click here for more details and a FAQ.

    Guest Rule

    Guests, defined as anyone not living in your current residence hall or WMU apartment, are not allowed. Students may have one visitor, meaning someone who lives in your current residence hall or WMU apartment, in their room or apartment. Visitors may not spend the night. Roommates and suitemates should consent to a visitor prior to them coming into the room or apartment. Hosts and visitors are encouraged to wear a mask when in the room or WMU apartment. Click here to see the full guest rule.

    Upcoming dates

    8/6 @ 5 p.m. – last day to make room or roommate changes before move-in

    8/7 – Emailed your assigned day and time to move in (new students) or move-in plan survey (returning students)

    8/10 – Meal plan changes for fall begin – limited to one change 8/12-9/30

    8/10 – Last day to indicate interest in on-site COVID testing at move-in

    8/13 – Microfridge and futon order deadline for in-room delivery 

    8/13 – Carpet order deadline for in-room delivery 

    8/18 – Deadline to submit your photo to get your students ID at check-in (details coming)

    Helpful links:

    Bronco Connection:

    Eager to connect with some current Broncos? Live virtual community sessions will be hosted by student organizations, clubs, departments, and academic colleges. Meet your peers with common interests, learn how to get involved, and start building your community at WMU.  Sessions will start in July, but check back often as new sessions will be added frequently. Be sure to RSVP for these live small-group sessions. Details and registration: https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/events?categories=15752

    Residence Life
    Western Michigan University
    (269) 387-4735
    (269) 387-4786 (fax)
    WMU-housing@wmich.edu

  • 6/26/2020 – Residence hall room selection details for new students

    Dear Western Michigan University student,

    It is almost time to choose your room!

    Your scheduled day and time to enter the housing system to select a residence hall room and meal plan for Fall 2020/Spring 2021 is below. All times are EST.

    Your Scheduled Start Time
    July X, 2020 XXXX

    You can select your room at or any time after your assigned start time, but not earlier.  Watch our short video to get familiar with how to search and select a room.  If you do not select a room by July 30, we will assign you one and select the Gold Meal Plan.

    Housing changes were made for 2020-21.

    Public health concerns, social distancing requirements, and related constraints brought on by COVID-19 required us to temporarily forego the use of some facilities.  We realize this news may be disappointing.  Please know that we took each decision seriously and made them with great care and consideration. 

    • Halls closed: Ernest and Smith Burnhams, Henry Hall
    • Ackley Hall (Valley 1) designated a non-food hall, meaning a meal plan is optional (option also available in Britton and Hadley Halls)
    • Learning community changes:
    • Aviation House moved to Ackley Hall (Valley 1)
    • Education Community discontinued
    • Fine Arts House moved to Harvey Hall (Valley 2)
    • Human Performance House discontinued
    • Honors subsets in business, engineering and fine arts, as well as the Honors STEM/Health option, discontinued – Honors Community remains
    • Single rooms converted back to double occupancy rooms - Building closures due to the Hilltop Village project and COVID-19 mean we no longer have that flexibility. Decisions for full occupancy double rooms were made in consultation with Kalamazoo Health and Community Services Department.

    Choosing your room:

    • Login to the housing portal by clicking here. Select Residence Halls >> Fall + Spring Room and Meal Plan Selection. 
    • View our short video or read more detailed directions online about how to navigate through halls and floors to open beds and rooms.
    • Open beds will be green or an open circle.  Occupied beds have an X or are a solid.  If you want to learn about who is already in the room, click on the X to see their age, college and roommate profile. 
    • Decide what meal plan you want before beginning.  Once you choose your room, you have 10 minutes to complete the process and click submit. 

    Roommate information:

    • Roommate Groups must be completed prior to room selection. If you invited someone to be in a Roommate Group, they must accept before you select a room.
    • You will not be able to add a roommate after you select a room.
    • Only one Roommate Group member will choose a room and meal plan.  The other person will automatically be assigned to that room and receive an email with the assignment.  If you are the one choosing the room, be sure to ask what meal plan your roommate wants.

    Notables:

    • Room selection happens in groups of 25 people every 15 minutes so there is no need to rush during your selection time.
    • Day 1 of room selection last year, 60% chose a Western Heights building but 40% chose a learning community or another hall.  If you do not get a first day time slot, it does not mean you will not be able to choose what you want.

    Roommate names and contact details will be sent to your WMU email on July 24.

    Move-in Plans:

    Our plan for move-in is being reviewed by the University’s COVID-19 taskforce.  Once approved, we will send an email in mid-July.  You can anticipate the following:

    • You will be assigned an arrival time between Aug. 27 and 29 – assigned day based on college or special program
    • Check-in process to be as touchless as possible
    • Limited to two move-in helpers
    • Masks to be worn at all times
    • Added custodial presence 

    Bronco Connection:

    Eager to connect with some current Broncos? Live virtual community sessions will be hosted by student organizations, clubs, departments, and academic colleges. Meet your peers with common interests, learn how to get involved, and start building your community at WMU.  Sessions will start in July, but check back often as new sessions will be added frequently.Be sure to RSVP for these live small-group sessions. Details and registration: https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/events?categories=15752

    Helpful links:

    Be well,
    Residence Life Staff

  • 6/15/2020 – Housing updates, room selection postponed

    Dear Western Michigan University student,

    We are thrilled to write to you with that salutation and hope that you are looking forward to joining our community this fall. While the last few weeks have not unfolded in a way any of us expected, rest assured that your University is preparing to welcome you this fall and offer you the high-quality educational experience that first attracted you to our campus.

    As we work through the challenges posed to our system by the COVID-19 pandemic, our efforts are guided by the core value of putting our students first. Your educational needs, your health, safety and living experiences are at the heart of every decision we make.

    Leaders across WMU are keeping abreast of current state and federal health directives and are busily making contingency plans for opening campus for in-person learning this fall to the fullest extent possible. While science, data and governmental actions will guide our final plans, we are doing our best to have all preparations completed for a grand fall welcome.

    As such, we are postponing new student room selection to July 13 as we re-evaluate housing and the University finalizes plans for fall. We will send updates as we know them, and we are looking forward to welcoming you to campus in August.

    Housing and Dining Rates

    COVID-19 has impacted students and families in unprecedented ways, and we are sensitive to the situations that many students and families are currently facing. There will be no housing and dining rate increase for 2020-21. Your housing and dining rates are available here.

    Choosing Your Room – Postponed to July 13 for new students

    We will email a fall update on June 26. The email will have your assigned day and time to enter the housing portal to choose a hall, room and meal plan. Some hall and learning community options may change.

    Choosing Your Roommate

    Want a roommate and still looking for someone? Our Roommate Finder is live and is a great way to search for someone with similar social habits, lifestyle and interests. Once you know your roommate, make a Roommate Group to link in our system. That is how you both get to claim the same room. Roommate Groups should be completed before room selection starts.

    Move-In

    Move-in will be in late August. Our original move-in dates and times may change as we discuss how to further spread out arrivals. Watch your email for updates later this summer.

    Cancelling Housing

    If you no longer plan to attend WMU, you can cancel your housing without financial penalty through July 1. Cancellations July 2 through July 31 are charged $100. Log into the housing portal and click the “Cancel Contract” link near the bottom of the page.

    If you still plan to attend WMU and no longer need housing, there is a $300 fee until July 1 and then goes up to $400.

    Please note: Residence Life is unable to cancel your contract for you under any circumstance. To cancel your contract, you must complete a cancellation request.

    Click here for the full cancellation fee schedule.

    Should the University make the decision to transition to distance learning, Residence Life will notify all residents of any updated information regarding room cancellation, fees etc.

    You have a lot of decisions to make and plans to finalize. It’s exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. If you need any help or guidance, please contact us at (269) 387-4735 or WMU-housing@wmich.edu.

    Many things are different in our world, in our country and on our campus than they were when 2020 began. But some of the most important things remain: Western Michigan University is a strong and resilient institution that prepares students for fulfilling careers and positive life experiences. You will be challenged, encouraged and pushed to excel at every turn, and you will graduate prepared for whatever your future holds.

    Be well,
    Residence Life Staff

Western View and WMU Apartments

  • 7/27/2020 - WMU COVID testing at move-in

    As we prepare for fall and students returning to campus, our utmost priority is the health and safety of the entire WMU community.  As such, we highly recommend students living on campus to do a COVID-19 test with Sindecuse Health Center the day they arrive on campus and prior to checking in at their residence hall or apartment. Testing is provided with no out-of-pocket costs for students. That means that Sindecuse will bill insurance for those who have it.  WMU will cover co-pays and any remaining balances related to testing. Those without insurance will be tested at no charge. 

    Testing encompasses a nasal pharyngeal swab that is collected by a Sindecuse provider. After the sample is taken, the test is rapid and will have results in 15 to 30 minutes. Results will be posted to your patient portal account, and you will be notified they are ready via a secure email message from the health center. If there is a positive result, you will be called and provided appropriate guidance from Sindecuse health professionals.

    If you would like to take advantage of being tested, please complete the link below by 5 p.m. EST Aug.10.  You will be notified via your Western email of your testing appointment time and other important details. 

    https://www.sais.wmich.edu/SelectSurvey/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=l8KM46l0

    If a student tests positive, they will be asked to return home for up to 14 days.  If a student is unable to return home, housing has set aside a limited number of isolation spaces on campus.  We will work with you to notify professors of your status.

    If you have questions about the testing procedures, please contact Sindecuse at (269) 387-3287 or via their online contact form. 

    Sincerely,

    Housing and Residence Life
    Sindecuse Health Center

  • 7/16/2020: Western View returning contracts - cancellation extension

    Hello Western View resident,

    On June 26, Housing and Residence Life contacted you to inform you that If you learned that all of your classes will be remote for the fall semester, you would be allowed to cancel your contract with no penalty if you do so by 5 p.m. on July 20.  As we continue to navigate this ever-changing environment, we realize that you will not know your class schedule changes until July 23. Therefore, we want to extend the date of which you have to let us know if you would like to cancel your contract to Monday July 27 at 5p.m. To cancel your contract, sign in to the housing portal, click on Contract/Lease Cancellation Request and then follow the prompts

    Once Housing and Residence Life confirms all of your classes will be delivered via distance education, you will receive an approved cancellation email and move-out instructions. You will then be responsible for moving out of your Western View Apartment no later than 11:59 p.m. on July 31. If you fail to move out of your unit by that time and date, we will assume you have changed your mind and you will be charged for the remainder of your contract. If you move out of your unit on time, your contract will be prorated up to the date of your move out.

    Please note that should you decide to move back into an apartment for the spring semester, there is no guarantee that your unit will still be available, as it may be occupied by another resident.

    Please take the time to review this option and reach out to our office with any questions. Thank you for choosing University housing. We are always proud to serve you.

    Respectfully,

    Steven Palmer
    Director of Housing and Residence Life
    269-387-4735 

  • 6/30/2020 – Western View, roommate and move-in information

    Your apartment address is now available. If you are in a 2, 3, or 4 bedroom unit roommate information (including contact information to arrange Consumers account) is also available. Log into GoWMU, and under the My Self Service section on the left choose the link "Residence Life Housing." On the housing portal please click on the link that says “View My Assignment Information”.

    Move-in Information for New Residents

    Please review the following items pertaining to the move-in process prior to your move into Western View.

    Move-in day is Thursday, Aug. 13. In order to obtain your keys, you will need to complete the online check-in process prior to moving in. The online check-in will not be available on your GoWMU until the day of your move-in. Please see the following directions to complete the online check-in on the day of your move-in:

    • Log into your GoWMU
    • Go into the Housing Portal
    • Click on Apartments – Arcadia Flats and Western View
    • Click on the link “Fall Apartment Check-In”
    • Read all sections and check the boxes to acknowledge you’ve read, and understand, each section
    • Please note that all move-ins must be during business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

    After completing the online check-in process you can pick up your keys at the Faunce Student Services building between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Please call the Residence Life Office at (269) 387-4735 when you arrive at the building, the number will also be posted on the door. You will need a form of ID to receive your keys. Residence Life is only open Monday-Friday; the office is not open on the weekends for check-ins

    If you need to purchase a new Bronco Card, you will need to go to the Bronco Card Center before move-in.  Residence Life will send you more specific information about location and hours of operation closer to move in. 

    Want to move in earlier?

    We’re excited to offer you the option to move in early this year. Beginning July 1, you may request any of the following move-in dates:

    • Monday, Aug. 3
    • Tuesday, Aug. 4
    • Wednesday, Aug. 5
    • Thursday, Aug. 6
    • Friday, Aug. 7
    • Monday, Aug. 10
    • Tuesday, Aug. 11
    • Wednesday, Aug. 12

    To request early move-in please log in to the housing portal via GoWMU>>Western View Apartments>>Early Move-in Request. 

    *Please note that your rent will start with your early move-in date. Rent is calculated by dividing your monthly rate by the number of days in the month of August (31). Example: If you choose to move-in on Aug. 3 and will be living in a one bedroom unfurnished apartment it will add approximately $255.20 to your fall charges for the additional 14 nights.

    Once you request an early move-in date that date is locked in and you cannot make any changes. You will be charged the additional rent even if you pick-up your keys at a later date.

    Important Utility Information for New Residents

    All residents arriving on Aug. 13 (or sooner if you select early move-in) need to bring the name of the resident in your unit who has the Consumer’s Energy account in their name. If you are the one responsible for having the account in your name, please bring the confirmation number given to you when you placed the order. We recommended that this is completed prior to Aug. 15 as you will not be issued any keys until we have this information.

    *If you select an early move-in date you will need to provide this information when you pick up your keys.

    You can reach Consumer’s Energy at (800) 477-5050 or www.consumersenergy.com.

    We look forward to meeting you!

  • 6/30/2020 – Goldsworth Valley, Spindler and Stadium Drive; roommate and move-in information

    Your apartment address is now available. If you are in a 2-bedroom unit roommate information is also available. Log into GoWMU, and under the My Self Service section on the left choose the link "Residence Life Housing." On the housing portal please click on the link that says “View My Assignment Information”.

    Move-in Information for New Residents

    Please review the following items pertaining to the move-in process prior to your move into WMU Apartment/Spindler Hall room.

    Move-in day is Friday, Aug. 28. In order to obtain your keys, you will need to complete the online check-in process prior to moving in. The online check-in will not be available on your GoWMU until the day of your move-in. Please see the following directions to complete the online check-in on the day of your move-in:

    • Log into your GoWMU
    • Go into the Housing Portal
    • Click on Apartments – Goldsworth Valley Apts, Stadium Drive Apts, and Spindler Hall
    • Click on the link “Fall Apartment Check-In”
    • Read all sections and check the boxes to acknowledge you’ve read, and understand each section
    • Please note that all move-ins must be during business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

    After completing the online check-in process you can pick up your keys at the Faunce Student Services building between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Please call the Residence Life Office at (269) 387-4735 when you arrive at the building, the number will also be posted on the door. You will need a form of ID to receive your keys. Residence Life is only open Monday-Friday; the office is not open on the weekends for check-ins.

    If you need to purchase a new Bronco Card, you will need to go to the Bronco Card Center before move-in. Residence Life will send you more specific information about location and hours of operation closer to move in.

    We look forward to meeting you!

  • 6/26/2020 - Western View, current residents — options for fall

    Hello Western View resident,

    Housing and Residence Life is excited that you have chosen to return to the Western View community with your new contract beginning July 1. 

    The COVID-19 pandemic has brought us some very difficult and unprecedented challenges. Housing and Residence Life has responded to the needs for adjusted processes and procedures that allow our students to make the best decisions for themselves in this ever-changing environment. 

    Recently, the University announced that students will be returning for the fall semester with courses offered through a variety of learning modalities. Some will be offered in-person, some through distance education and other courses will be delivered using a combination of these approaches. You may not know how your classes will be delivered at this time.  As such, we realize it may be difficult to decide if you want to start your new Western View contract or complete fall semester studies from home. Housing and Residence Life would like to relieve some of that pressure. You may choose to enter into your new Western View contract starting July 1. If you learn that all of your classes will be remote for the fall semester, you will be allowed to cancel your contract with no penalty if you do so by 5 p.m. on July 20.  To cancel your contract, sign in to the housing portal, click on Contract/Lease Cancellation Request and then follow the prompts.

    Once Housing and Residence Life confirms all of your classes will be delivered via distance education, you will receive an approved cancellation email and move-out instructions. You will then be responsible for moving out of your Western View Apartment no later than 11:59 p.m. on July 31. If you fail to move out of your unit by that time and date, we will assume you have changed your mind and you will be charged for the remainder of your contract. If you move out of your unit on time, your contract will be prorated up to the date of your move out.

    Please note that should you decide to move back into an apartment for the spring semester, there is no guarantee that your unit will still be available, as it may be occupied by another resident.

    Please take the time to review this option and reach out to our office with any questions. Thank you for choosing University housing. We are always proud to serve you.

    Respectfully,

    Steven Palmer
    Director of Housing and Residence Life
    269-387-4735