University Housing Reassigns Some Upper-Level Students Due to High Demand

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The anticipated 2021 incoming class is the largest-ever group of first-year students at the University of Arkansas.  

As a result, University Housing will reassign about 285 upper-level students to neighboring apartment complexes with similar services to on-campus living. 

This reassignment affects less than 5% of students who wish to live on campus. All reassigned students completed their on-campus housing contract after March 6, the priority contract date for upper-level students. 

Demand for on-campus housing was greater than the approximately 6,200 beds available across campus for students.  

"The decision of which group to reassign to neighboring apartment complexes was a difficult choice," said Florence Johnson, assistant vice chancellor for University Housing. 

"Having a first-year experience on campus is critical to the success of our incoming students. They need to make connections with one another and be close to their classes and the resources on campus that help them stay healthy and do well academically," said Johnson. 

"Our upper-level students, especially those who wish to live on campus, are highly engaged students who perform academically above average.  

"All of the complexes being considered are within walking distance of campus and on a campus bus route. We want to make sure these students continue to feel connected to the on-campus experience," she said. 

Reassigned students will pay no more than they would for the space they selected through the housing process. After they move into the new residence, they will have a designated University Housing staff member as a point of contact to ensure the transition is smooth. 

University Housing honored all roommate groups formed before June 23 among these reassigned students. Reassigned students will receive more information on how they can utilize the roommate-matching tool before arriving in their new living assignment. 

Students can contact University Housing with concerns or questions at housing@uark.edu. 

About University Housing. University Housing is a department within the Division of Student Affairs serving a residential community of around 6,200 on-campus students. More than 200 students find employment opportunities with University Housing each year. We offer educational programs that support the success of students and services that help students focus on academics at the University of Arkansas. Living on campus starts with a housing contract. 

About the Division of Student Affairs. The Division of Student Affairs supports students in pursuing knowledge, earning a degree, finding meaningful careers, exploring diversity, and connecting with the global community. We provide students housing, dining, health care resources, and create innovative programs that educate and inspire. We enhance the University of Arkansas experience and help students succeed, one student at a time.