UH to propose mandatory freshmen on-campus living

A proposal making it mandatory for first-time freshmen to live on campus has been scheduled for the UH Board of Regents meetings next week.

According to the presentation, waivers to appeal the mandatory housing will be available to freshmen that demonstrate financial difficulty, medical or ADA need or have a reason that deems it counterproductive for them to live on campus. The requirement would not apply to students who live with a legal parent or guardian within 20 miles of campus or to students who are married or have a child.

First-time freshmen cannot opt out of the on campus housing proposal, regardless of whether or not they are coming in with prior college credit. The presentation cites sources that mandatory freshman housing increases academic success and participating students are more likely to graduate within four years.

UH has 8,008 beds on campus, more than any university in the state except for Texas A&M.

Other universities that require freshman to live on campus include Texas State University, University of North Texas, Sam Houston State University and Stephen F. Austin State University.

The proposal is on the agenda to be discussed and debated by administrators and regents during the Board of Regents meeting on Aug. 19 and 20.

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