Housing and Residence Life
The family of a WMU student pose for a group photo in the Valley Dining Center.

Parent Resources

Just as your student attending Western Michigan University is a family commitment, the transitions that happen the first year are family transitions. Here you will find useful information for you and your student navigating life as a Bronco.

We believe that the best way to support your student and help them succeed is to enter a partnership with you. In Housing and Residence Life, our staff, programs and services are all designed to help your student grow and develop. However, support and guidance will still be needed from home. By working together, we hope to ensure a successful year for your student.

Housing and Residence Life
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5312 USA
(269) 387-4735

Sending Mail and Packages

At WMU, we know how important it is to be able to send mail and packages to your student. Here you'll find mailing addresses for all of our campus housing and instructions for sending packages.

Learn more about sending mail

Housing and Dining Rates

Housing and dining rates are the per-person cost for housing and meals. The residence hall contract is for a full academic year unless the resident is transferring, studying abroad, withdrawing or graduating. A residence hall meal plan is required in all halls other than Britton/Hadley. 

View housing and dining rates

Family Educational Records and Privacy Act

We welcome your questions and concerns about your student, but we are limited by the outlines of the Family Educational Records and Privacy Act regarding what we can share. This federal law protects the release of information about students 18 years or older, unless the student gives permission to release the information. Continue to let us know your concerns or your perspective on a situation regarding your student. While we may not be able to disclose information or updates, we do listen and respond.

Learn more about FERPA
Two parents with their WMU student stand outside the Student Center.

Residence Hall Billing

Rent is billed by the semester to WMU student accounts. If applicable, financial aid may be applied to WMU student accounts toward housing charges. 

Explore billing information
A parent and their student pose with WMU's mascot, Buster, in the Valley Dining Center.

What to Expect the First Year

No two college experiences are exactly the same. However, there are patterns consistent with the thousands of first-year students who come to WMU which can help you know what to expect.

Understand the rhythm of college
A group photo of a smiling family with their WMU student beside a full move-in cart.

What To Do If...

First-year college students are usually excited about their growing independence, but they may still come to you with concerns about fitting in, their academics, budgeting, or finding helpful campus resources. 

Address common areas of concern
We are excited about the opportunities your student will experience while living with us at WMU. If at any point your student is experiencing difficulties, encourage them to seek out our live-in hall staff. Whether it is the resident assistant on the floor, the assistant hall director or the professional hall director, all are trained to be a support system and resource for your student. With continued support from home and the involvement of the Housing and Residence Life staff, we believe your student will find a home at WMU.
— Roshona Porter, Director of Housing and Residence Life
Two student employees at the residence hall front desk shake hands with WMU's president on move-in day.

Safety and Security at WMU

Safety and security is an important issue for parents. We believe it takes a partnership between Housing procedures, our staff and students to maintain Western Michigan University's reputation as a safe campus.
Our safety and security policies
A parent hugs their student in their residence hall room on move in day.

Family Newsletter

When your student calls Western Michigan University home, staying connected matters. Housing and Residence life publishes a From Our House to Yours newsletter created especially for families of students living in campus housing.
Read and subscribe