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Online System Makes Applying for On-Campus Housing a Breeze

By Karen Trimbath, Student Affairs Writer

In the old days at Penn State, students used to line up in the freezing night just to apply for on-campus housing. The trouble was, this process was inefficient and couldn’t guarantee everybody a room. Now an online contract system offers students a fast, convenient way to apply using their Penn State e-mail access account, according to Lynn DuBois, associate director of housing.

The contracts Web site has been online for the last three years. Last year, everybody who applied through this system was offered some type of contract, either for regular or supplemental housing during the fall and spring academic year.

“We really feel that requesting contracts online is fair and efficient,” adds DuBois. “All students are given an equal opportunity to apply.”

The system allows students to apply for housing at the nine campuses that offer residence halls. Information about the process is sent to both students and parents.

Applying online takes about five minutes. Options include choosing a roommate, meal plan, and room. The status of applications may be checked at any time through a student’s Snapshot page.

DuBois advises students to pay attention to the application timeline so they don’t miss important deadlines. While the deadline to submit a contract request was on Jan. 20, students have until March 5 to edit their contract choices. DuBois also notes that once students submit a contract, it is legally binding.

Around the end of July, students will receive room assignments, room phone number, and roommate information and phone number. An information packet will also be provided and can be accessed online at www.hfs.psu.edu/welcome.

The contract request system is online at www.hfs.psu.edu/contract. Anyone with questions can contact the Assignment Office for Campus Residences at (814) 865-7501. At locations other than University Park, students should contact their Student Affairs or Housing offices.

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