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Housing Contract Process for new first-year students attending University Park
Terms, Conditions, & Regulations: Residence Halls
Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract for Undergraduate Residence Halls and Dining Commons
• Subject to revision.
• Please read the following information thoroughly and keep it for reference throughout your stay in University housing.
• Introductory Information
• Registration
• The Campus Meal Plan
• Checking Into the Room
• Checking Out of the Room
• Supplemental Housing
• Room Changes
• Contract Cancellation
• Refund Policies
• Maintenance of the Room
• Regulations
• Safety
• Damages
Introductory Information
Penn State strives to provide a residence environment that is both comfortable and conducive to learning and personal growth. The University assigns housing accommodations without regard to personal characteristics, not related to ability, performance, or qualifications as determined by University policy, or by state or federal authorities. The University does not discriminate against any person because of age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. All students should familiarize themselves with the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of living on campus.
Special Housing Requests
Students who feel they have a significant chronic physical or emotional condition that may impact the assigned housing environment are required to submit the Verification Form for Students Requesting Changes to the Housing Environment Due to a Significant Chronic Physical or Emotional Condition. This form can be obtained by contacting The Assignment Office for Campus Residences at 814-865-7501 or assignmentoffice@psu.edu, or by going to the Assignment Office in 201 Johnston Commons. If a student is offered a change to the housing environment, an additional cost may be associated with the resulting assignment or requests.
Students requiring special assistance for academic activities should contact the coordinator of services for the disabled in 115 Boucke Building at 814-863-1807 (TDD).
Obligation of Students
Students are obligated to abide by the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract that they have acknowledged and submitted. This obligation includes acknowledgment of the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations and assuming financial responsibility for the entire contract period. Submitting the contract means acknowledgment of the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations.
Legality
Residence accommodations are available only on a combined room-and-board basis. Students must be degree-seeking. Nondegree students may be considered for housing on an individual basis. The Housing and Food Services room and meal plan may not be transferred or assigned to another student. The meal access card (Penn State id+ Card) may be used only by the student to whom it is issued. The contract, when submitted and dated, is evidence of acceptance of the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract. The terms and conditions of the contract begin on the date that the student takes occupancy or on arrival day, whichever is earlier, and extends through the break periods and for late departure, as approved by Housing. This is a legally binding contract. Failure to pick up a room key does not release a student from this contract.
Registration
Registration Status
Students must be in registered status at University Park to live in University-owned housing. This means the student must have his/her semester bill paid in full. Students who have not paid their student bill will be asked to leave the residence halls. Housing will then cancel the current contract and place a financial hold on the student' s records until such time as the student pays all charges incurred.
Campus Registration
Upper-class students who are attending another Penn State campus or college and are planning a change of location to University Park may apply for a Housing Contract through the Online Contract System process. Such students must initiate the change of assignment process at their current campus. If the change of assignment to University Park is not approved, it is the student's responsibility to contact the Assignment Office at assignmentoffice@psu.edu to cancel the University Park Housing Contract. Students whose University records reflect a campus other than University Park after July 1 will have their room assignments held until such time as the change of location to University Park is complete. Any student who has not completed the change of location by the last day of the second summer session will lose his/her room assignment and will be placed in space reserved until the change of location is approved. The student will then be assigned to either a regular or supplemental room, whichever is available. If the change of assignment to University Park is not approved, and the student does not notify the Assignment Office prior to arrival day, the student' s contract will be canceled and the student will forfeit the $100 housing deposit.
Housing Deposit
All students applying for University housing must submit a $100 housing deposit with the contract or agree that Housing and Food Services can charge the deposit to their student account. This deposit is nonrefundable. The housing deposit shall be retained by the University throughout the contract period and until such time as a student does not file a Housing Contract for the subsequent year, indicating to the University that he/she will not be living in residence hall housing during the subsequent session or academic year. The deposit will be credited against the student' s account within 30 days after the final contract period ends.
Meningococcal Disease Vaccination
By Pennsylvania law, students living on campus are required to submit a Meningococcal Vaccination Certification form. This form either verifies that the student has received the vaccination or that the student is waiving the vaccination, but has been informed regarding the disease. The form must be submitted prior to check-in. Students who submitted a form during a prior semester do not need to submit a new form. If the student is under age 18, the student' s parent must sign the waiver. Vaccinations are available from the student' s local health care provider or at University Health Services. More information is available at www.hfs.psu.edu/vaccine and http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/mening/default.htm.
First-Year Student Requirement
All first-year students are required to reside in the University residence halls as indicated below. First-year students who will reside with parents, guardians, or close relatives at their permanent home, or who will be 21 years of age prior to initial registration at the University, or who are veterans, may be exempted from these requirements by applying for an exemption through the Assignment Office, 201 Johnston Commons, prior to signing the Housing and Food Service Contract.
• First-year students admitted for summer session are obligated to live in the residence halls during the consecutive summer session, fall semester, and spring semester.
• First-year students admitted for fall semester are obligated to live in the residence halls during the consecutive fall and spring semesters.
• First-year students admitted for spring semester are obligated to live in the residence halls during the spring semester.
Rental Contract Periods
There are three rental contract periods for assignment to University Park residence halls. A separate contract request must be submitted for each.
1. Academic Year (fall and spring)
2. Spring Semester
3. Summer Session
Contracts are legally binding and include financial responsibility for the entire contract period. A student who lives close enough to campus to commute, and who elects to submit a contract, will not be released from the contract later to live at home.
Nittany Suites—The fall semester contract period for students with a Nittany Suites contract begins at 4:00 p.m. the Monday prior to the first day of classes. Temporary housing is available for students who plan to arrive on campus during the announced fall check-in days.
Students who choose not to take advantage of the temporary accommodations will have a credit posted to their student account.
The Campus Meal Plan
The Campus Meal Plan is Penn State's multi-option meal plan. Every undergraduate student living in the residence halls must purchase a meal plan as part of the Housing and Food Service Contract.
The meal plan total cost per semester is a combination of two basic components. The first component, the base cost, represents the nonfood costs for the operation of the dining commons—mortgages, labor, supplies, maintenance, and utilities. The second component, the point cost, represents the beginning meal-account balance available to purchase meals throughout the semester/session. The funds provided with the plans will not cover all meals during the semester/session. Additional funds can be added at any time at www.idcard.psu.edu.
Undergraduate resident students are required to purchase a meal plan for each semester/session and pay the total rate for the plan selected.
Fall and Spring Semester Meal Plans
To select a meal plan level for fall and spring semester, the student simply chooses the appropriate plan when submitting the Housing and Food Service Contract through eLiving. Students who fail to select a level will automatically be assigned level 3 for fall and spring semesters.
Summer Session Meal Plans
There is only one level available for summer session. The student will be charged based on his/her length of stay.
Changing Meal Plan Options
Fall and spring semester plans can be changed online at www.idcard.psu.edu. Students may change the level of their plan anytime during the semester until 14 days before the last day of final exams.
Carrying Balances from Semester to Semester
As a convenience to students continuing in the residence hall system, funds may be carried over from summer session to fall semester and from fall to spring semester. Surplus funds at the end of spring semester are forfeited. Resident students are required to purchase a meal plan each session/semester.
Funds will be carried forward from the summer session and validated in the fall semester if the required meal contract is purchased before the end of the second week of fall semester. Funds will be carried forward from the fall semester and made valid in the spring semester if the required meal contract is purchased prior to the end of the second week of spring semester. Carryover funds, however, are not to be considered "in lieu of" resident students' requirement to purchase a meal plan. Students using carryover funds are still required to pay the total semester board rate for a meal plan. If a student has a large surplus of funds remaining at the end of fall semester, it is suggested that a lower level be purchased for spring semester at www.idcard.psu.edu; both carryover funds from fall semester and funds from the spring semester contract may be used for purchases during spring semester.
Transfer of Meal Plan to Another Student
A meal plan cannot be transferred or assigned to another student. The id+ card is used as a meal access card and may be used only by the student to whom the card is issued. Contracts are acknowledged as evidence of acceptance of the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract. This is a legally binding contract. Failure to spend funds does not release a student from the contract.
Meal Access Card
The id+ card (with sufficient point balance) is the student' s meal access card and will give the student access to the dining commons and food service cash operations. Students must present their id+ cards to pay for meals using their A-La Board accounts. The cashier cannot make exceptions.
Students should report lost id+ cards at www.idcard.psu.edu. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Housing and Food Services is not responsible for fraudulent use of the card prior to it being reported lost. The student must go to the id+ Office, 103 HUB-Robeson Center, to obtain a new id+ card.
Removing Food or Unauthorized Entry into the Dining Commons
Carryout food in all-you-care-to-eat dining commons is limited to one piece of hand fruit (i.e., apple, orange, banana, peach) and one ice cream cone only. Removing additional food or beverages, dishes, or silverware from the dining room or entering the dining commons without paying for the meal will be considered theft. Theft in the dining commons is a serious issue that will result in disciplinary action by the Office of Residence Life, the Office of Judicial Affairs, and/or University Police. Further repercussions could include cancellation of the Housing and Food Service Contract. Food Services reserves the right to examine customers' backpacks or bags when they exit the dining commons.
Dining Commons Safety
Due to incidents of chinaware and glassware breakage, wearing shoes or other protective footwear in the dining commons is mandatory. Acts of "horseplay" are not permitted because of possible injury to others in the dining rooms. In-line skates are prohibited in the dining commons.
Meals During Illness
If a student becomes ill and is unable to consume meals in the dining commons, a meal may be obtained by notifying the dining commons office. The staff will then provide instructions for securing a meal.
Special Diets
It is not possible to provide specific menus for special diets in the dining commons under any circumstances. A student with special requirements (religious, medical, personal dietary preference, etc.) that cannot be fulfilled by individual selection from the multiple-choice menu offered should not file a contract. If a student has signed the contract and subsequently develops a medical condition requiring a special diet, the student may be requested to undertake necessary examinations at University Health Services. If the examinations confirm special dietary requirements, the Housing and Food Service Contract will be cancelled for the remaining days of the session/semester, a prorated credit processed, and the student will be required to make alternative housing and food service arrangements. Students with questions about special diets should contact the Food Services Office in 111 Redifer Commons or call 814-863-1255 before submitting this contract.
Check-In/Check-Out Form
Students should complete the check-in portion of the Check-In/Check-Out Inspection form when moving into a residence hall room. Any damages or missing items must be noted at this time to prevent a charge for these at check-out time. The form, once completed, is returned to the Housing Office. The student must retain the other copy until checking out of the room.
Checking Into the Room
Check-In/Check-Out Form
Students should complete the check-in portion of the Check-In/ Check-Out Inspection form when moving into a residence hall room. Any damages or missing items must be noted at this time to prevent a charge for these at check-out time. The form, once completed, is returned to the Housing Office. The student must retain the other copy until checking out of the room.
Late Check-in
Unless the student requests an extension of the arrival period in writing, through the Assignment Office, the University is not obliged to hold a specific room assignment later than 5:00 p.m. of the first day of classes. Students must accept other available accommodations if they arrive after that time, and will be obligated for full room and board charges if enrolled at the University.
Room Key
Each student will receive a room key at the residence hall area commons desk upon presentation of the id+ card. The commons desk staff will ask the student to sign for the key and will give the student a Check-In/Check-Out Inspection form.
Checking Out of the Room
Check-Out and Room Key
All rooms, regardless of the date or circumstances, should be clean and in good condition at the time of check-out. Students should notify the Housing Office regarding the date of check-out and determine a time the room can be inspected. At the end of any session, semester or any other time a student makes a room change or withdraws from the University, the room must be inspected by Housing staff. To properly check-out, occupants must remove all belongings from the room, clean off the bulletin board, and empty the wastebasket. The refrigerator/microwave must also be emptied and cleaned. Housing staff can then inspect the room. Keys should be returned to the area commons desk. Keys not returned will result in a core change charge to thestudent's account. In the event the student leaves any items other than the University's property in the room, such items, to the extent the University determines they are of value to the University, shall be regarded as a general gift from the student to the University.
During the Semester/Session
During the semester/session, students leaving the University must notify the Assignment Office of their change of enrollment status. Please note that only students leaving the University are permitted to cancel their Housing and Food Service Contracts. Students who are reassigned to a new room or are leaving the University will receive a Room Change Letter. To check-out, the student must present the Room Change Letter with the room key and forwarding address information to the commons desk in his/ her residence area. If the desk is closed, the key and forwarding address can be placed in the Key Return slot at the commons desk.
End of Semester/Session
Each student will receive a key envelope and check-out instructions in his/her mailbox. The student should then write a forwarding address on the key envelope and return the envelope to the commons desk at check-out. If the desk is closed, the envelope, with the key sealed inside and forwarding address written on the outside, should be placed in the Key Return slot at the commons desk.
Holiday Closedowns and Semester Breaks
Undergraduate residence halls will be closed during University recesses, with the exception of Fall Break. Dates of closing and opening will be posted on bulletin boards and appear on the Penn State Calendar. Room and board rates do not include services during official University vacation periods or semester/ session breaks. At the end of each semester, residence halls close at 4:00 p.m. on the day followingthe last scheduled examination for official University courses, as announced by the Scheduling Office.
Supplemental Housing
Moving to Regular Rooms During the Semester
Students assigned to supplemental housing will receive a new room assignment when a vacancy is identified in a permanent room. The student will be assisted by housing if they request assistance to move.
Students living in supplemental housing after the first few weeks of classes will be surveyed to determine where the student is willing to accept an assignment to a regular room or if they wish to remain in supplemental housing. It will be assumed that students who do not return the survey want to remain in supplemental housing and they will not be reassigned until such time as all students who submitted a request to move to a regular room have been reassigned. Students who return the survey and indicate they are interested in moving and identify the areas and types of rooms they will accept are required to move if assigned to such a space. Students who wish to remain in their supplemental room may do so if the following conditions exist:
- The occupancy of the supplemental room is equal to or more than 50% of the standard capacity of the room.
- The room is not scheduled for general resident or Housing use.
Students who wish to move from supplemental housing will be assigned as space becomes available. Students are not guaranteed reassignment.
Students reassigned prior to the survey being distributed are required to accept the reassignment and move within four days.
Moving to a Regular Room for Spring Semester
Students living in a supplemental room at the end of the fall semester are expected to participate in the Open Room Change for Spring Semester. (See Open Room Change below). The Assignment Office maintains the right to reassign students to regular rooms, consolidate between supplemental rooms or adjust the room rate charges of those supplemental students not participating in the Open Room Change if space is available for them to move.
If the student is reassigned, all belongings must be moved out of the fall semester supplemental room prior to semester break. Students may contact the area housing office to determine if their belongings can be moved directly into their new assignment or into storage. If belongings are not moved, Housing may move the belongings and assess a charge to the student. Students requesting an exception must contact the area housing office or the Assignment Office for Housing and Food Services. Exceptions will be made on a case by case basis.
Rates
Students are charged the supplemental housing rate when assigned to a supplemental room. The supplemental housing rate is lower than most room rates. Upon reassignment to a regular room, the rate is prorated to the regular room rate based on the date the reassignment was processed. Students who choose to remain in a supplemental room when vacancies are available in their building will have their charges prorated to a regular double room rate for the remainder of the semester.
Room Changes
Direct Room Exchange
A direct room exchange is a change of assignment with another student of the same gender living in the same type of room and may be processed for most types of accommodations. This can be accomplished only if both students involved contact the Assignment Office at assignmentoffice@psu.edu, to complete the necessary form. A direct room exchange cannot be processed for Special Living Options, if a Waitlist exists, or if the students are in supplemental housing. Direct room exchanges can be processed only through the ninth week of each semester.
Emergency Room Change
An emergency room change will be arranged only when all other options to resolve differences between roommates have been thoroughly explored. Students must discuss their need for a change in room or residence hall assignment with a Residence Life staff member. If the staff member determines that an emergency exists and space is available, a change in assignment will be made.
Medical Room Change
Room changes for temporary medical conditions are valid only for the academic year in which they are filed; room changes related to chronic conditions are valid throughout the student's residency in University Park Housing.
Open Room Change
During the third and fourth weeks of spring semester, depending on room availability, a list of vacancies is posted at the area commons desk or the Assignment Office. A student may process a room change on a first-come, first-served basis to an available space in accordance with the policy/instructions that are provided with the posting.
After the open room change period ends and supplemental rooms have been emptied, the Assignment Office will consolidate vacancies. Upon notification from the Assignment Office, students with a vacancy in their room may:
1. Space permitting, retain the room for the balance of the semester on a reduced-capacity basis with an additional charge. All students assigned to supplemental living accommodations must be reassigned to permanent living accommodations before such requests will be honored; or
2. Process a room change to a vacancy in a similar room (same capacity) with another student of the student's choice; or
3. Have their room placed on a list of rooms available for new students or current students whose circumstances warrant a room assignment change. Once a roommate is assigned, they will not have the option to pay the additional fee and maintain the room as a reduced-capacity room.
Routine Room Change For Spring Semester
Students interested in changing their room assignments for spring semester may do so during the posted time periods in November or December. During the posted time periods, rooms being vacated for spring will be posted at all commons desks. Interested students may go to the commons desk and place their names on a log sheet beside the room to which they would like to be assigned. The Assignment Office will process the change and notify the student when the request is complete.
A student receiving a change of assignment for spring semester must vacate the fall room prior to the end of fall semester or before leaving for semester break, whichever is first. Students can make arrangements with the Housing Office in the area of the new assignment for storage during the semester break period if the new assignment is not available prior to the end of fall semester.
Contract Cancellation
A Housing and Food Service Contract that is submitted to the University is legally binding and holds the student to the financial obligation of the entire contract period. A student wishing to be released from the obligation is required to transfer the contract to another student (see "Contract Transfer of Obligation"). Students with extreme circumstances will be considered for release on a case-by-case basis. A Contract Release Request form can be obtained from the Assignment Office, 201 Johnston Commons. These students will be charged a fee equal to 20 percent of their room and base board costs if released prior to the first day of classes. Cancellations granted after the first day of classes will have charges assessed according to the University's established refund policy. Failure to pick up a key will not release a student from the contract obligation.
Contract Transfer of Obligation
A student (third semester standing and higher) committed to a Housing and Food Service Contract who wishes to be released from the contract must transfer the obligation to another student. The replacement student must be eligible for on-campus housing and must be a non-first-year undergraduate student of the same gender. The transfer must be filed and approved by the Assignment Office, 201 Johnston Commons. First-year students are required to live on campus and are not permitted to transfer their contract obligations.
Regulations for Transfer of Obligation
1. A replacement may not be a University student who has on file an active contract for space in the residence halls.
2. The replacement student must accept assignment to supplemental living accommodations. The replacement student is not given the vacating student's assignment.
3. The replacement student must sign a Housing and Food Service Contract and authorize or make a payment to the University for housing and food services before the vacating student can receive credit. The Assignment Office prorates the charges for both students.
4. If the replacement student does not take occupancy or withdraws from the University before taking occupancy, the student initiating the transfer of obligation will resume financial obligation of the contract.
5. It is a violation of University policy to sell or attempt to sell a Housing and Food Service Contract. No replacement student shall offer and no transferring student shall accept any form of consideration for the transfer of a Housing and Food Service Contract. Any student who is found to have sold or purchased a Housing and Food Service Contract may be subject to a range of sanctions including contract review and/or termination and disciplinary action.
Practicum, Student Teaching
1. Any student who has a Housing and Food Service Contract will pay 100 percent of the room and board charges for the portion of the session/semester he/she is on campus.
2. Students and/or academic departments must notify the Assignment Office, in writing, two weeks prior to the start of the practicum for the student to qualify for the credit.
Withdrawal from School and Leave of Absence Prior to Taking Occupancy
Fall semester students who withdraw from the University prior to taking occupancy will have $50 credited to their student accounts if they notify the Assignment Office, 201 Johnston Commons, in writing by May 1. Students will have $25 credited to their student accounts if notification is received between May 1 and July 1. If notification is received by the Assignment Office after July 1, Housing and Food Services shall retain the $100 housing deposit as liquidated damages.
Fall Semester
If a student takes a leave of absence, participates in student teaching or an internship, practicum, etc., fall semester and returns as a registered undergraduate student during the contract period, the contract is still active and the student must return to a residence hall. The housing deposit will be retained for spring semester. If a student is on leave of absence for two consecutive semesters, the housing deposit will be credited to the student' s account. Any contract submitted thereafter must include another $100 deposit. Students reenrolled after withdrawal will initially be assigned to supplemental housing.
Spring Semester and Summer Session
Spring semester and summer session students who withdraw or take a leave of absence from the University prior to taking occupancy will have their contracts canceled and will forfeit the $100 housing deposit. The University will retain the $100 housing deposit as liquidated damages.
Withdrawal from School and Approved Release from the Contract After Taking Occupancy
Students who took occupancy of a residence room and then withdrew from the University or were granted a contract release will receive a credit based on a prorated daily refund schedule upon check-out. No room and board base cost refunds are granted after the eighth week of the semester. All unused meal plan funds in excess of $5 remaining at the time of withdrawal or approved contract release will be refunded at face value. However, at the end of the spring semester, any unused points are forfeited and no refund will be given for the base cost.
University Academic Drop
Students who are academically dropped by the University are responsible for notifying the Assignment Office of their status. Students becoming reenrolled during the contract period will be obligated to the remaining portion of the contract.
Refund Policies
Meal Plan Fund Refunds
Refunds for meal plan funds will not be made to students who schedule classes that conflict with their meal schedules or choose not to eat in the dining commons. All unused meal plan funds remaining at the time of withdrawal or approved contract release will be credited at face value. Credits will not be given for accounts that have less than $5.
Housing Deposit
If a student has a contract for a subsequent contract period, the deposit will be held until such time as there is no contract accepted. The housing deposit will be credited to the student' s account at the end of the session and will be refunded, minus any outstanding charges against the account.
If a student cancels the contract or withdraws from the University without notifying the Assignment Office, the deposit may be forfeited for administrative costs. If for any reason a refunded housing deposit is not accepted, negotiated, or other demand made thereof, within one year from the University's initial attempt to return such to student, the student agrees that any remaining housing deposit will be a general gift by the student to the University.
Room and base board costs will be credited on a prorated daily refund schedule after approved contract release or a University withdrawal.
Room and mal plan credits will be processed to the student' s account and will be refunded less any outstanding charges against the account.
Maintenance of the Room
Repairs
Maintenance needs, problems, or questions regarding a student room or hall should be discussed with Housing staff for the student' s residence hall. Maintenance problems may be noted on the janitor's service sheet, which is located on the floor bulletin board. Students may also contact their area Housing Office by phone or e-mail. A list of phone numbers and e-mail addresses for area Housing Offices is available at www.hfs.psu.edu/housing/contactus.
A student who has requested a repair to an item in his/her room can expect this repair to be completed between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. It may be necessary to reassign rooms in order to perform some types of maintenance for the safety and security of the occupants. Maintenance personnel may enter a student' s room to perform preventative maintenance, needed repairs identified during a room inspection, or an emergency repair. If an employee enters a student' s room when the student is not present, the employee will leave a form stating the time, date, and reasons for entering the room.
Cleaning
Students are expected to maintain their rooms in an orderly and sanitary condition. Students occupying suites or rooms with baths are responsible for cleaning the bathroom. If Housing becomes aware of unsanitary conditions resulting from students failing to maintain their rooms, Housing will clean the room, the resident(s) will be charged, and the amount will be applied against their student accounts. Depending upon how Housing and other students are affected by the persistence of disorderly and unsanitary conditions in a student's room, the University reserves the right to cancel the student's contract and to refuse an assignment for future contract periods.
Inspections
A room inspection is not a search. Student rooms are inspected during each session/semester and at the time of check-out. Routine inspections will be announced in advance, and the student may choose to be present during the inspection. These inspections are conducted: 1) to evaluate the condition of the room and furnishings; 2) to identify needed maintenance and repairs; and 3) to check for fire and safety hazards. If damages are noted, the cost for repairs or replacement will be charged to the resident(s) of the room.
Should Housing management observe the presence of unapproved appliances or objects in the room or notice objects attached to the facilities in an unapproved manner, this will be recorded on a Notice of Room Check form. A copy of the form will be left for the student, who will be expected to correct the improper situation. In the case of noncompliance, the University reserves the right to have the items removed at the expense of the resident(s).
Regulations
Advertising
Advertising of merchandise or services for sale or rent is not permitted in residence halls unless it is for the sale of the personal property of the students living in the residence halls. Special bulletin board space is designated for this service. Advertisements, if posted elsewhere, will be removed.
Aerials, Etc.
Aerials, masts, satellite dishes, and other short-wave radio transmitting equipment are not allowed in the residence halls because of FCC interference regulations and safety precautions.
Alcoholic Beverages
State laws prohibit the purchase, use, or possession of alcoholic beverages by individuals under 21 years of age. University regulations restrict the use and possession of all alcoholic beverages to the individual residence hall rooms of persons 21 years or older.
Appliances
The following electrical appliances are authorized for use in student rooms if the Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., label (UL label) is on the appliance: televisions, answering machines, stereo component systems, coffee makers (with enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off), clocks, fans, sun lamps (with enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off), hair dryers, hair setters, curling irons (with automatic shut-off), potpourri burners (with enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off), University-owned refrigerator/ microwaves, corn poppers (with enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off), and personal computers.
The only cooking permitted in residence halls is that which can be done using the University-owned refrigerator/ microwaves provided in each room. The following appliances are prohibited: hot plates, toasters, Torchere-style (floor-standing) halogen lamps and lights, immersion heaters, heating coils, ovens, grills (indoor and outdoor), personal microwave ovens, and personal refrigerators. Irons may be stored in student rooms but are to be used only in designated ironing areas. If the use of multiple outlets is needed, a grounded 15 amp surge-protected plug-in strip with built-in circuit breaker should be used. Students may not install air conditioners. Air conditioners are permitted for approved medical needs only.
If unapproved appliances are observed in a room, the student will be asked to remove them from the building. In case of noncompliance, the University reserves the right to have the items removed. The items will be returned to the student for removal from the hall upon request to Housing management.
Balconies
Some residence halls have exterior balconies as part of the architectural facade. Access to them is prohibited.
Bicycles and Skateboards
Bicycles are to be placed in the bicycle racks located outside the residence halls. Students may store their bicycles in their rooms with the permission of their roommate(s). Bicycles are not permitted in lounges, laundries, hallways, bathrooms, dining halls, or other public areas. Students may be held responsible for damages. If a student wishes to store a bicycle for a prolonged period on a month-to-month basis, arrangements for bicycle locker boxes may be made through Housing management. Skateboards are prohibited on campus. In-line skates are not permitted to be worn in the residence halls or dining commons.
Candles
For safety reasons, candles, incense, and other flame-emitting articles are prohibited in the residence halls. Only potpourri burners with an enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off are permitted.
Commercial Enterprises
The use of University facilities and/or property for commercial sales activities by individuals or non-University organizations is prohibited. University organizations, within the limitations established by this policy and other University regulations, and with appropriate approval, may sell materials to support the purposes of the organization.
Data Communication Service
Housing provides personal network connections in most residence rooms. Students can access the Penn State computer Internet using their own personal computers. Any student using a personal computer to access the network acknowledges a responsibility to act in accordance with relevant policies including:
a. Penn State Policy AD-20
b. "Using Software: A Guide to the Ethical and Legal Use of Software for Members of the Academic Community," which can be found online at www.psu.edu/cac/policies/educom.html
These policies are agreed to when an Access Account with the Center for Academic Computing is activated. Violation of policy or law may result in suspension of network access or other information service privileges, disciplinary action, and legal proceedings. Information pertaining to the data connection is available from Residential Computing (ResCom), which has a helpdesk in each residence hall area. More information is available online at www.rescom.psu.edu.
Network Connection Agreement
The student' s use of the network connection is subject to compliance with the Terms and Conditions, found online at www.rescom.psu.edu. By registering for, or using, a network connection, the student agrees to be bound by the Terms and Conditions. Specific information about illegal activity, bandwidth limitations, inappropriate content, personal responsibilities, and other network connection limitations can be found online at www.rescom.psu.edu.
Furniture
No furniture or furnishings are to be removed from the rooms. Mattresses are to be used on bed frames provided and not on the floor. Only loft beds specifically approved by Housing may be used within student rooms, and only the use of approved beds is permitted. All beds must be freestanding on the floor, supported by legs, and attached to the bed frame. A charge will be assessed for removal of items left behind. Any student who plans to use a loft bed should contact the area Housing Office for more information. Approved loft plans are also available online at www.hfs.psu.edu/loftspecs.The use of other University furniture in a student room is not permitted and can lead to disciplinary action.
Liquid-Filled Furniture
Because of the excessive weight and potential for damage, liquid-filled beds and other liquid-filled furniture items are not permitted.
Gambling
Gambling in University-owned residence halls apartments, and commons buildings, which is in violation of federal, state, and local laws is prohibited. Students involved in gambling-related incidents may face legal and/or disciplinary action.
Guests of Students
Students are permitted to have guests in their rooms only if there is no objection from their roommate(s). Students may have an overnight guest in their room for a maximum of three consecutive nights. Guests may not move from one room to another in order to extend their stay in the residence halls. The University reserves the right to revoke this privilege. Neither room keys nor door access cards will be provided for guests. If a cot and/or linens are needed, the student should make arrangements at the area commons desk. Charges for these services should be paid in advance. The deadline for making reservations is 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Only residents and their invited guests are permitted in the living areas of the building. Guests must be escorted by a resident of the building at all times and are to use the appropriate restroom/shower facilities (i.e., male and female). People found in the building who are not residents or guests of residents are considered to be trespassing.Overnight guests are not permitted until the first day of classes for fall and spring semesters, and summer session 1 and 2.More information is available at http://www.hfs.psu.edu/housing/undergraduates/policies.shtml.
Illegal Drugs
Illegally possessing, using, distributing, manufacturing, or selling illegal drugs in the residence halls is forbidden. Simply being present in a residence hall room where an illegal drug, including marijuana, is present is a violation of the Housing Contract.
Pets
Animals are not permitted in residence halls for reasons of sanitation and safety. One small tank for tropical fish or goldfish is permitted.
Play Areas
There are designated areas on campus for baseball, football, soccer, golf, tennis, volleyball, basketball, catch, etc. For the safety of others and for the preservation of lawns and shrubs, individuals should not use the lawns and seeded areas adjacent to the residence halls.
Postal Service/MailMail should be addressed as follows:
Name
Room Number, Residence Hall
Residence Hall Area
University Park PA 16802
"Penn State" and "The Pennsylvania State University" should not be used in the address.
Only mail addressed to the occupant of the room will be processed. The mailbox number is the same as the student's room number. The combination to the mailbox is issued with the room key.
A branch of the U.S. Postal Service is located in the basement level of McAllister Building. The main U.S. Post Office for State College is located at 237 South Fraser Street.
Quiet Policy
One of the goals of Housing, Food Services, and Residence Life is to provide an atmosphere that is conducive to study and rest. In order to meet this goal, all students must understand that the right of students to study and sleep takes precedence over the right to make noise that disturbs others.
Quiet hours are:
8:00 p.m.–8:00 a.m., Sunday through Thursday
2:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., Friday and Saturday
Atherton and Simmons Hall
8:00 p.m.–10:00 a.m., Sunday through Thursday
Midnight–10:00 a.m., Friday and Saturday
Room Decorations
Pictures, additional bulletin boards, and decorations are to be hung from picture molding with picture hooks. Nothing is to be strung across the room for the purpose of hanging decorations. Darts and dart boards are not permitted. Because of the costly cumulative deterioration of physical facilities, the use of tape, adhesives, putty, glue, paste, nails, tacks, staples, and screws on walls, furniture, doors, or other woodwork or glass is not permitted. No painting or papering of rooms or furniture is permitted. The use of tiles is prohibited unless approved by the University. Students should check with their area Housing manager.
Smoking
Penn State has developed a policy that prohibits smoking in all buildings, thus creating a smoke-free environment. This policy is enforced in all University facilities, including residence halls and dining commons.
Storage Space for Trunks and Suitcases
There is limited storage space in each commons building for trunks and suitcases. However, in the interest of fire safety, boxes and cartons of any kind cannot be stored. Students shouldsee Housing management staff for details. The University is not responsible for loss of items placed in storage rooms.
Telephone Bills
Verizon provides Centrex telephone service in accordance with tariff regulations approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC). All local usage charges collected by Verizon' s service area will be billed and collected by Verizon.
The following conditions apply to Verizon usage bills:
1. All calls chargeable to the student room telephone number during the period of occupancy are the responsibility of each and every occupant of the student room. Students are jointly and severally liable to the billing agent for all calls chargeable to the student room telephone number. This means that they are liable to the billing agent for payment of all chargeable calls they make and may be held liable for calls made by their roommate(s) or made by other persons on the telephone in the room.
2. At the end of the spring semester and summer session, the final bill for the room telephone number is mailed to the home address of the room occupant with the lowest University identification number. Students graduating at the end of fall semester will be mailed the final bill for the room telephone number.
3. Failure to pay each month's bill in full may result in restriction or termination of calling privileges from the room telephone. When restrictive or termination action has been taken by the billing agent, a security deposit may be required before calling privileges are restored.
Long-Distance Calling
Long-distance calls may be made with any calling plan or calling card that can be accessed by a toll-free number. Calling cards are available at http://computerstore.psu.edu.
University Park Telephone Service
All on-campus student living accommodations are equipped with dial tone service as part of the residence hall contract. Local and long-distance calls, subject to restrictions imposed by the billing agent and/or inter-lata carrier, may be made and received on the room telephones. Students must use a calling plan or calling card that can be accessed by a toll-free number to make long- distance calls. The cost of campus telephone service is included in the room and board rate.
Verizon will create a restriction capability to block only calls to (900) numbers. There will be no charge to add and later remove this blocking capability once per account. For this purpose, an account is the same room and occupants. If all students occupying a room request this blocking capability, Verizon will add it. At the end of the academic year, the blocking will be removed so the next year's occupants will have full dialing capability. If the occupants change before the end of the academic year, a request to Verizon will restore full dialing capability at that time.
Violations of Criminal Law
The following acts can result in fines, costs, and imprisonment:
1. Placing telephone calls to annoy, molest, or harass another person; or using obscene or indecent language while on a call.
2. Giving information to an operator so that charges for telephone calls or service are made to the account of another person, firm, or institution without authorization, or to a fictitious or nonexistent number.
3. Installing anything to, rearranging, or tampering with any telephone company facility, wires, or equipment to avoid payment.
Weightlifting Equipment
Weightlifting equipment is not permitted in individual rooms because of noise and potential damage to the floors.
Windows and Screens
To protect draperies and sills and to help conserve heating fuel, windows should be closed when residents are not in the room.No antennas are to be strung out of the windows, and no food or beverages are to be stored between the window and the screens on the outside ledges. Removal of window screens is prohibited.
Window and Door Decorations
No decorations may be placed on the exterior of the building. Individual doors and windows may be decorated in compliance with the Residence Hall Window Decorations and Displays policy on file in the Residence Life Office. Check the policy before decorating.
Safety
Candles
For safety reasons, candles, incense, and other flame-emitting articles are prohibited in the residence halls. Only potpourri burners with an enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off are permitted.
Elevators
Most residence halls have elevators for moving people and equipment between floors. Students should refrain from the following behaviors when using an elevator:
1. Tampering with or abusing any of the elevator equipment or controls
2. Prying open elevator doors or holding them open by the safety edges
3. Attempting to exit an elevator that is stuck between floors without directions and assistance from elevator technicians or emergency personnel
4. Jumping up and down in the elevator
In addition, students should never use an elevator in a fire. Engaging in any of the above behaviors may result in a referral to the community standards process or the Office of Judicial Affairs.
Fire Drills
To comply with state and local fire regulations, fire drills will be conducted in all residence halls once a month. Everyone present in the building during the emergency drills must participate by vacating the building according to instructions. Rooms may be checked during fire drills to ensure compliance. Failure to vacate the building will result in disciplinary action.
Fire Equipment
Fire alarms and fire extinguishers are located on every floor in each building. Students should familiarize themselves with their locations. Tampering with this equipment is a serious matter that could jeopardize the safety of a number of people. Such equipment tampering can result in severe disciplinary and/or criminal action.
Fire Precautions
Precautions must be taken against fire. Extreme caution and good judgment must be exercised when using a halogen desk lamp or any study lamp. Lamps should not be placed near flammable objects such as curtains, bedspreads, pillows, posters, or clothing, and should be turned off when residents leave the room. Due to potential fire hazards, University policy prohibits the use of Torchere-style (floor-standing lamps that project light upward) halogen lamps in any University facility.
Smoke Detectors and Sprinklers
Each residence hall room is equipped with a smoke detector that is electronically operated. In rooms where sprinklers have been installed, the smoke detector is monitored by University Police. All other smoke detectors operate independently from the building fire alarm system. The detectors and sprinklers are for students' safety and should not be tampered with. Any student who experiences a problem with the smoke detector should contact Housing staff or a resident assistant (RA).
Firearms and Fireworks
The possession, carrying, or use of firearms (including pistols, rifles, shotguns, BB guns, paintball guns or ammunition), bows and arrows, handbillies, dirk knives, razors, switchblades, explosives, or other dangerous knives, explosives, or other dangerous chemicals including lighter fluid or weapons including martial arts equipment is prohibited in University residence halls and University-owned or -controlled property and at University- sponsored or -supervised activities, except by authorized law officers and other persons specifically authorized by the University. Pennsylvania law prohibits the possession or use of fireworks.
Resident Responsibility for Security
Residents are responsible for helping ensure that adequate security is maintained in the residence halls. Residents must refrain from behavior that compromises building and room security, such as leaving room doors unlocked or propping open building doors. Students should report unauthorized persons to proper authorities, and be constantly aware of the importance of maintaining security in the residence halls.
A student is issued a room key after signing a key receipt at the residence hall area commons desk. Each student is cautioned against the loss of the room key. Should the key be temporarily misplaced, a second key will be issued by a commons desk clerk for a period of 48 hours. Keys not returned at the end of 48 hours will result in a core change to the room door lock, a new key will be issued, and the charge for the installation of the new core will be assessed against the student' s account.
The University is not responsible for loss or damage to occupants' personal property; therefore, each individual is strongly advised to carry personal property insurance.
Damages
Liability Policy
Room occupants will be held responsible for the condition of the room and furnishings and for any damages or losses that may occur during occupancy.
Individuals identified as responsible for damage, theft, or losses in common areas of the building (such as corridors, elevators, stairwells, recreation rooms, dining commons, study rooms, bathrooms, laundry rooms, work rooms, and lounges) will be billed for the cost of repair or replacement. Amounts billed are additional charges under the Housing and Food Service Contract. Residents will be held collectively responsible for damages, theft, or losses in common areas of the building that may occur during occupancy when the individual(s) responsible cannot be identified.
For the purpose of damage, theft, or loss assessment, occupancy shall be inclusive from the date of check-in to the date the student properly checks out of the room. Charges will be applied against the student's account. Residents must pay a damage assessment when billed.
Residents are not permitted to make damage repairs or arrange for them to be made. In an emergency, Housing management staff, an RA, or University Police should be contacted. Any student who leaves the University at the end of the contract period or earlier because of withdrawal from the University or other termination of study, and who fails to return the room key at the time of check-out, will automatically be assessed a charge for core and key replacement. The amount will be charged against the student' s account.
Room Search
1. There are no routine room searches. A room search is conducted only when there is strong reason to believe that the occupant(s) of the room are in serious physical or psychological distress or that the room contains items that are contrary to University regulations (which include federal, state, and local laws). In most cases, an act of misbehavior will precipitate this concern.
2. When room searches are conducted exclusively by the Residence Life staff, a decision on the potential search situation must be obtained through the area Residence Life staff from the assistant vice president of Housing and Residence Life. Approval is given only after the reason for search, the person(s) to search the room, and the object(s) being sought are clarified. Searches are usually conducted in the presence of the student occupants, and only in unusual cases would the room be searched in their absence.
3. When it is necessary for a member of the Department of University Safety to search a room, the search will be performed according to constitutional and criminal procedure. (If an officer observes articles in plain view from a location where the officer has a right to be, the officer has not conducted a search.) If time and circumstances permit, a member of the Residence Life staff will be notified of the impending search. The staff member can provide guidance to the resident of the room against whom any warrant is issued and can act as a witness. Items seized will be taken (as authorized by law) and inventoried, and a receipt listing each article will be given to the owner or left in the room.
Violations
Residence hall students who engage in behavior that violates the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract and/or the student Code of Conduct will be required to work with the staff of Residence Life and/or Judicial Affairs to resolve the issue. Outcomes could include, but are not limited to, educational sanctions, contract review, change of housing assignment, contract termination, and disciplinary action. Guidelines and procedures related to this process are available by contacting any Residence Life staff member.
Administrative Contract Termination/Change in Room Assignment
In addition to the foregoing, the University reserves the right to cancel or deny a contract to a student, or to change the assignment of a student, if that student engages in the following conduct:
1. Disregards the rights of other residents
2. Jeopardizes the safety and/or well-being of him/ herself or other residents
3. Disrupts the residential environment
4. Violates University rules and policies and/or the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of this contract
The University, at its discretion, may determine whether a student who engages in the conduct mentioned above shall be covered by the preceding provision related to violations or whether the student should have a fair and equitable hearing by the director of Residence Life. In the latter case, the student will have the right to appeal to the assistant vice president for Housing/Residence Life, who will retain final authority in such cases.
The University reserves the right to deny or cancel a Housing and Food Service Contract or lease for University-provided housing to an individual whose conduct and/or proven criminal record indicates a potential threat or danger to the University community, including students, faculty, and staff. Any student who is not in registered status will have a financial hold placed on his/her student record for housing and food service charges incurred during the semester. Subsequent contracts will be denied until all financial holds are satisfied.
The University reserves the right to change the assignment of a student in specific locations in the event that (1) the location is needed for other programs or purposes, and/or (2) the student' s room is specially equipped to provide for a medical need and such need arises, and/or (3) conditions in a specific location require such reassignment to ensure a proper educational environment or the health and safety of individuals. The student will be given area assignment preference after reassignments are completed. |
