Residential Living and Learning

Living on campus is a key part of the Alma College experience.

We strive to make our residence halls a safe, welcoming environment where all students can live and learn. Our students, faculty, and staff, who will become your neighbors, support network, and family, can’t wait to welcome you to your new home away from home.

Campus living places social connections, student organizations, campus activities, and support at your fingertips at all times – not just during class hours. Our residence halls are home to rooms for study groups, large common rooms to gather with friends for a movie night, and helpful staff. The evidence shows that because of this support, students who live on campus are more likely to succeed academically, persist to graduation, and connect to campus organizations.

We understand that there are limited circumstances in which living on campus does not make sense for a student. Exceptions to the residency requirement are available for students who are:

• Married
• Parent or guardian of a minor
• Veterans
• 23 years old or older
• Living with their parent or guardian within 25 miles of campus
• Fifth year students (have completed 8 or more semesters of college excluding spring terms)
• Transfer student (enrolled for Fall 2023 or later)

Students who wish to apply for a residency exemption should complete the application in their housing portal. The full residency exemption policy can be found here.