Do you have to live in a dorm freshman year?

Hi everyone, I'm a high school junior, and I'm starting to explore my college options. I'm curious about whether or not it's required to live in a dorm during the first year of college? Do some colleges have different policies about this? A little insight would be super helpful, thank you!

Hey there! It's great that you're thinking ahead about your college living situation. The answer to your question varies by college. Some schools require freshmen to live on campus to help students integrate into the college community and ensure a smooth transition from high school. However, there are institutions that do not have this requirement or that offer exceptions based on certain criteria, such as living with family within a specific distance from campus.

To get the most accurate information, you should check the housing policies of the specific colleges you're interested in. This information is often readily available on the school's website under a section called 'Residential Life' or 'Housing.' For example, some schools like the University of California (UC) system generally do not require freshmen to live on campus, while many private colleges do. Remember that living on campus can be an essential part of the college experience, offering a unique opportunity to meet new people and engage in campus life. Good luck with your college search!