Finding suitable housing is a critical aspect of the college experience, and Columbia College Chicago is no exception. With its vibrant urban campus, the college offers a range of housing options designed to meet the needs of its diverse student body. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Columbia College housing, covering everything from on-campus accommodations to off-campus apartments and houses.
On-Campus Housing
Columbia College offers on-campus housing in three residence halls:
624 S. Michigan Residence Hall: This modern high-rise building is located in the heart of the Loop, offering convenient access to downtown amenities and academic buildings. It features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with private bathrooms and kitchens.
Park Schlaefli Residence Hall: Situated in the historic South Loop neighborhood, this historic building provides a cozy and convenient living experience. It offers double, triple, and quad rooms with shared bathrooms and common areas.
South Loop Residence Hall: This spacious and newly renovated building is located just steps from the main campus. It features studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with private bathrooms and kitchens, as well as a fitness center and study lounge.
Off-Campus Housing
For students who prefer to live off campus, Columbia College offers a variety of resources to assist in their search. The Office of Residential Life maintains a database of available apartments and houses, and the college also partners with a number of local real estate agencies.
When searching for off-campus housing, students should consider factors such as:
- Location: Proximity to campus and public transportation is important for convenience and affordability.
- Cost: Rents in the South Loop area can vary significantly, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it.
- Amenities: Consider essential amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and laundry facilities, as well as desirable features like air conditioning, parking, and a fitness center.
Cost of Housing
The cost of housing varies depending on the type of accommodation and location. On-campus housing rates for the 2023-2024 academic year are as follows:
| Residence Hall | Room Type | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 624 S. Michigan | Studio | $15,290 |
| 624 S. Michigan | One-Bedroom | $18,350 |
| 624 S. Michigan | Two-Bedroom | $21,410 |
| Park Schlaefli | Double | $10,682 |
| Park Schlaefli | Triple | $9,466 |
| Park Schlaefli | Quad | $8,250 |
| South Loop | Studio | $13,980 |
| South Loop | One-Bedroom | $16,860 |
| South Loop | Two-Bedroom | $19,740 |
Off-campus housing costs can vary widely depending on location and amenities. According to Zillow, the median rental price for a one-bedroom apartment in the South Loop is $2,200 per month.
Tips for Finding Housing
- Start your search early to have the best selection of options.
- Visit potential housing options in person and ask questions about the building, amenities, and neighborhood.
- Read lease agreements carefully before signing anything.
- Consider sharing an apartment or house with roommates to reduce costs.
- Take advantage of the resources offered by the Office of Residential Life and local real estate agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the deadline to apply for on-campus housing?
A: The priority deadline for on-campus housing applications is May 1st for the fall semester and December 1st for the spring semester.
Q: Can I choose my roommate?
A: You can request a specific roommate on your housing application. However, assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to submit your application early if you have a preferred roommate.
Q: What amenities are included in on-campus housing?
A: On-campus housing includes amenities such as private bathrooms, kitchens, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.
Q: Are there any restrictions on what I can bring into my on-campus housing?
A: There are some restrictions on what you can bring into your on-campus housing. These restrictions include items such as weapons, drugs, and alcohol.
Q: What is the cost of off-campus housing?
A: The cost of off-campus housing can vary widely depending on location and amenities. According to Zillow, the median rental price for a one-bedroom apartment in the South Loop is $2,200 per month.
Q: Can I live off campus as a first-year student?
A: Columbia College requires all first-year students to live on campus. However, there are some exceptions to this policy, such as if a student lives at home with their parents or has a disability that requires them to live off campus.