Both national and institutional research show that students who live on campus earn better grades, graduate faster, and have a more satisfying college experience. With this in mind, Viterbo requires all first and sophomore year students to live in university housing (as determined by a student's federal start term cohort. This is typically your first semester at Viterbo). This also determines which meal plan you are eligible for.
Exemption
Exemption from the residency requirement during first and sophomore years is not possible except as provided in this Exemption from Housing section. You are responsible for housing charges for the entire academic year unless you apply for and are granted a housing exemption for one of the reasons listed below. Please note: if you have applied for and received an exemption, you do not need to apply again; that exemption holds for the duration of your time at Viterbo.
You may apply for exemption in order to live with parents or guardians who live within 60 miles of Viterbo University.
You may apply for exemption if you are married.
You may apply for exemption if you are expecting or are the parent or legal guardian of a child.
You may apply for exemption if you are over the age of 26.
You may apply for exemption if you are a new first-year or sophomore transfer student; new transfers students with junior status or higher do not need to apply for an exemption.
You may apply for an exemption if you are diagnosed with a medical or disability condition that precludes you from living in university housing even with reasonable accommodations (i.e. private room on campus). You will be required to provide medical documentation that supports your request, and your request will be approved or denied by the Accessibility Services Coordinator.
What is the process for obtaining an exemption if I fit one of the above categories?
- Complete the housing exemption application.
- Attach any supporting evidence (birth certificate, marriage license etc.) to the application.
Cancellation of Contract
Contracts are not cancelled during the academic year except under extenuating circumstances. To see if you qualify for/request a mid-year cancellation, please visit the Release from Housing and Dining Contract page.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I live with a sibling or other relative in the La Crosse area? The only relative that deems you exempt from the residency requirement is a legal guardian.
- I signed a lease. Can I be refunded for the rest of the semester? You are responsible for the entire semester's housing charges unless you apply for and are granted an exemption. Signing of a lease does not release you from your campus housing contract.
- I signed up to live on campus, but I changed my mind. Can I cancel my contract? Cancellation from the housing contract is possible before the academic year begins, but the financial impact changes on a sliding scale.
- Housing sign up through May 1: Cancellation of contract possible. $100 housing deposit returned.
- May 1 through Aug. 1: Cancellation of contract possible. Housing deposit not returned.
- Aug. 1 through Start of fall Classes: Cancellation of contract possible. $500 fine applies.
- Start of Fall Classes through End of Academic Year: Contracts cannot be cancelled.