We understand that housing insecurity can take many forms and affect students in different ways. This page outlines key resources for students facing housing challenges — including emergency housing options for undergraduates experiencing homelessness and support for navigating both on-campus and off-campus housing. Whether you’re looking for immediate assistance or longer-term housing solutions, our goal is to connect you with the support you need.
Emergency housing for undergraduate students experiencing homelessness
Undergraduate students experiencing homelessness (and enrolled at least part-time and age 24 and under) may be eligible for access to university housing. Availability is based on space, and the length of stay is determined in consultation with our case management team.
While this housing is not free or subsidized, you won’t have to navigate the process alone. Our team can connect you with the Office of Student Financial Aid to explore funding options or appeal your current aid package.
UMD uses the McKinney-Vento definition of homelessness:
- Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason (also referred to “doubled up” or “couch surfing”);
- Students who live in substandard housing such as motels, hotels, trailer parks or camping grounds due to a lack of alternative adequate accommodations;
- Students living in emergency or transitional shelters;
- Students abandoned in hospitals;
- Students with no stable foster care placement;
- Students (possibly with families) who are fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or other dangerous or life-threatening conditions that relate to violence against the individual or a family member.
To request support, submit the Thrive Center Assistance Form so we can schedule a consultation to be assessed for this resource.
Break housing
Undergraduate students who currently live on campus and are part of the Fostering Terp Success program are provided with campus housing during all university breaks, including Thanksgiving, Winter, Spring, and Summer breaks.
On-campus housing
The Department of Resident Life oversees a variety of university-owned housing options for undergraduate students.
Off-campus housing
Off-Campus Housing Services is an excellent resource for undergraduate and graduate students looking for housing in College Park and beyond. It provides personalized information about housing and off-campus living, a searchable database listing available rental properties in the area and an online database where students can search for roommates with similar housing needs and interests.