Ball State University offers a variety of on-campus housing options for students, including traditional residence halls, apartments, and suites. Each type of housing has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to research your options carefully before making a decision.

Traditional Residence Halls
Traditional residence halls are the most common type of on-campus housing at Ball State University. They are typically large buildings with multiple floors, and each floor contains a number of rooms. Rooms in traditional residence halls are typically shared by two or more students, and each room has its own bathroom.
Benefits of traditional residence halls:
- Convenience: Traditional residence halls are located close to campus buildings and amenities, making it easy to get to class and other activities.
- Community: Traditional residence halls offer a great opportunity to meet other students and make new friends.
- Cost: Traditional residence halls are typically the most affordable type of on-campus housing.
Drawbacks of traditional residence halls:
- Privacy: Rooms in traditional residence halls are typically shared by two or more students, so there is less privacy than in other types of housing.
- Noise: Traditional residence halls can be noisy, especially during the evening and early morning hours.
- Space: Rooms in traditional residence halls are typically small, so it is important to be organized and efficient with your space.
Apartments
Apartments are another popular type of on-campus housing at Ball State University. Apartments are typically located in smaller buildings than traditional residence halls, and each apartment has its own private entrance. Apartments can range in size from one to four bedrooms, and each bedroom has its own bathroom.
Benefits of apartments:
- Privacy: Apartments offer more privacy than traditional residence halls, as each apartment has its own private entrance.
- Space: Apartments are typically larger than rooms in traditional residence halls, so there is more space to spread out and relax.
- Independence: Apartments offer more independence than traditional residence halls, as students are responsible for their own cooking, cleaning, and laundry.
Drawbacks of apartments:
- Cost: Apartments are typically more expensive than traditional residence halls.
- Meal plan: Students who live in apartments are not required to purchase a meal plan, but they will need to cook their own meals or eat at off-campus restaurants.
- Parking: Students who live in apartments may need to purchase a parking pass, as parking is not always available near apartment buildings.
Suites
Suites are a type of on-campus housing that is similar to apartments, but they are typically smaller and less expensive. Suites typically consist of two or three bedrooms, and each bedroom has its own bathroom. Suites also have a shared living area and a small kitchen.
Benefits of suites:
- Privacy: Suites offer more privacy than traditional residence halls, as each suite has its own private entrance.
- Space: Suites are typically larger than rooms in traditional residence halls, but they are smaller than apartments.
- Cost: Suites are typically less expensive than apartments.
Drawbacks of suites:
- Meal plan: Students who live in suites are not required to purchase a meal plan, but they will need to cook their own meals or eat at off-campus restaurants.
- Parking: Students who live in suites may need to purchase a parking pass, as parking is not always available near suite buildings.
Which Type of Housing Is Right for You?
The type of on-campus housing that is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a convenient and affordable option, then a traditional residence hall may be the best choice for you. If you are looking for more privacy and space, then an apartment or suite may be a better option.
Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing on-campus housing at Ball State University:
- Your budget: On-campus housing costs vary depending on the type of housing and the size of the unit. It is important to factor in the cost of rent, utilities, and other expenses when budgeting for on-campus housing.
- Your lifestyle: Consider your lifestyle and preferences when choosing on-campus housing. If you are a social person who enjoys being around other people, then a traditional residence hall may be a good option for you. If you prefer more privacy and independence, then an apartment or suite may be a better choice.
- Your academic needs: Consider your academic needs when choosing on-campus housing. If you are a student who needs to be close to campus buildings and amenities, then a traditional residence hall may be the best choice for you. If you are a student who can study independently, then an apartment or suite may be a better option.
Here are some tips for finding on-campus housing at Ball State University:
- Start your search early. The best time to start looking for on-campus housing is during the spring semester of your junior year. This will give you plenty of time to research your options and find the best housing for your needs.
- Attend housing fairs. Ball State University hosts housing fairs throughout the year. These fairs are a great opportunity to meet with representatives from different housing providers and learn about their available units.
- Talk to your friends and classmates. Ask your friends and classmates about their experiences with on-campus housing. They may be able to give you some good advice about which housing options to consider.
- Visit the Housing Office. The Housing Office at Ball State University can provide you with information about all of the on-campus housing options. They can also help you apply for housing and answer any questions you may have.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing on-campus housing at Ball State University:
- Waiting too long to start your search. The best housing options go quickly, so it is important to start your search early.
- Not doing your research. It is important to research your housing options carefully before making a decision. Be sure to compare the costs, amenities, and locations of different housing providers.
- Choosing a housing option that is not right for you. Consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing on-campus housing. Do not choose a housing option that is too expensive, too small, or too far from campus.
- Signing a lease without reading it carefully. It is important to read your lease carefully before signing it. Be sure to understand the terms of the lease, including the rent, the utilities, and the cancellation policy.
Here are some frequently asked questions about on-campus housing at Ball State University:
- What is the cost of on-campus housing? The cost of on-campus housing varies depending on the type of housing and the size of the unit. For more information about pricing, please visit the Housing Office website.
- When is the deadline to apply for on-campus housing? The deadline to apply for on-campus housing is May 1st.
- What are the payment options for on-campus housing? You can pay for on-campus housing with a credit card, a debit card, or a check.
- Can I cancel my housing contract? Yes, you can cancel your housing contract, but you will be charged a cancellation fee. The cancellation fee varies depending on the date you cancel your contract.
- What are the rules and regulations for on-campus housing? There are a number of rules and regulations that apply to on-campus housing. For more information, please visit the Housing Office website.
- Who do I contact if I have a problem with my on-campus housing? If you have a problem with your on-campus housing, you should contact the Housing Office.
Table 1: Cost of On-Campus Housing at Ball State University
Housing Type | Room Type | Cost per Semester |
---|---|---|
Traditional Residence Hall | Double Occupancy | $2,500 – $3,000 |
Traditional Residence Hall | Single Occupancy | $3,500 – $4,000 |
Apartment | One Bedroom | $4,500 – $5,000 |
Apartment | Two Bedroom | $5,500 – $6,000 |
Suite | Two Bedroom | $4,000 – $4,500 |
Suite | Three Bedroom | $4,500 – $5,000 |
Table 2: Amenities of On-Campus Housing at Ball State University
Housing Type | Amenities |
---|---|
Traditional Residence Hall | Air conditioning, heating, internet, cable TV, laundry facilities |
Apartment | Air conditioning, heating, internet, cable TV, kitchen, bathroom |
Suite | Air conditioning, heating, internet, cable TV, kitchen, bathroom, living room |
Table 3: Locations of On-Campus Housing at Ball State University
Housing Type | Location |
---|---|
Traditional Residence Hall | North Quad, South Quad, East Quad, West Quad |
Apartment | University Village, Cardinal Court, The Flats |
Suite | Bracken Suites, Studebaker Suites, Carnegie Suites |
Table 4: Contact Information for On-Campus Housing at Ball State University
Department | Phone Number | Email Address |
---|---|---|
Housing Office | (765) 285-5555 | [email protected] |