Residential Living Requirement

Since it was founded in 1891, Seattle Pacific University has been committed to the education of the whole person. For this reason, the residential experience is considered an integral part of a student's education. Research shows that students who are engaged in a campus residential community have a more productive, and ultimately more satisfying, college experience than those who live off campus.

A two-year guarantee of six consecutive academic quarters of housing is given to first-time freshmen. SPU encourages students to live on campus subsequent quarters as space is available. The Residential Living Requirement is evaluated yearly to support the residential experience, as well as respond to housing demand.

For the 2013-2014 academic year, students are required to live on campus unless:

• They are 20 years or older prior to the first day of class for the quarter for which they are applying.
• They live at home with parent(s), legal guardian(s), spouse, or dependent children.
• They are a graduate student.
• They are enrolled for eight or fewer credits.

If you do not fulfill one or more of these requirements and believe you have a situation that warrants special consideration, you may petition Residence Life for an exemption. Approval is granted only for exceptional need or hardship. Any student living off campus without the approval of Residence Life will not be permitted to register until he or she is in compliance.