Four-Year Residency Requirement and Exemption Process
Marymount University requires all undergraduate students to live on campus for four years. This policy aims to enhance campus life, encourage student engagement, and support academic success. On-campus living offers easy access to resources, activities, and fosters community spirit. However, there are exemptions available for certain circumstances.
Exemption Process Overview:
This guide explains how to apply for an exemption from the on-campus housing requirement. The process involves submitting a form and providing evidence for your exemption request. Remember, exemptions are not guaranteed and providing false information can lead to disciplinary action.
Reasons for Exemption:
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Married or single parent:
To claim this exemption, students must furnish a copy of their marriage certificate or their child’s birth certificate.
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Dependent Family:
This applies when the student is the legal guardian of dependent children.
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Living Locally:
When students reside with parent(s) or a legal guardian within a 26-mile radius of Marymount University, they can apply for this exemption. Verification requires a copy of the parent(s) or legal guardian’s utility bill with an address matching the information provided on the exemption request. The “permanent residence” should be a dwelling that the parent(s) or legal guardian has owned, maintained, and inhabited for at least 12 months. You will need a copy of the lease agreement if the home is rented or a copy of the mortgage if the property is owned, along with a current utility bill. If the student is going to be living in property OWNED by you (the student). Proof of ownership must be submitted along with a current utility bill.
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Medical Needs for students who cannot be accommodated by the University:
Students with medical needs must provide recent medical documentation from a physician, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or another licensed medical professional within the last 60 days. The documentation should outline the student’s medical condition and the living requirements necessary based on their medical condition. Note: Allergies are not generally considered to be a severe medical condition.
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Veteran/Active Duty Military:
Students requesting an exemption based on their status as an Active Duty Military Member or Veteran Status must provide a copy of their DD214 as proof of Veteran or Active Duty status.
Important Notes:
- Approval to live off campus must be granted from the Office of Student Living BEFORE the student makes any binding arrangements to live off campus. Students are cautioned about entering into binding contracts, leases or rental agreements before exemption decisions have been made. Mandatory housing, meals and associated fees will still be assessed if a student signs a lease prior to approval. Moreover, should your exemption/appeal be successful while you are a recipient of financial aid, it is important to note that there will be a reduction in your financial aid package.
Exemption Timeline for Academic Year 2024-2025:
- Application Opens: December 1, 2023.
- Decision Timeline: Within three days of application submission.
- Appeal Sessions: Scheduled dates from December 15, 2023, to June 30, 2024.
- Application Deadline: March 28, 2024.
- Housing Lottery: April 3, 2024.
- End of Exemption Process: July 1, 2024.
Submission Process:
Complete and submit the online form with all necessary documents. A confirmation email will be sent upon submission. Decisions will be communicated via email.
Appeals:
If denied, you can appeal within three business days of the decision. Submit a written appeal with additional information. Note that some reasons, like already signed leases or allergies, bad experience with roommates or with another student are typically not valid for exemption.
Contact for Assistance:
For further inquiries or help with the appeal process, contact the Office of Student Living at rlife@marymount.edu or call 703-284-1608.
