Heading to college as a student-athlete is an exciting prospect you’ve worked towards for years. But as a non-traditional student, you may find yourself asking: What are the best housing options for student-athletes, and how can you make them work for your athletic lifestyle? Housing is a critical component of your college experience, and this guide will help you navigate all your options, from on-campus dorms to off-campus apartments. Whether you’re settling into a dorm or creating your own space off-campus, we’ll explore the best strategies to make your housing work for you. Learn about on-campus options, off-campus logistics, and more so that you can make the most of your time as a student-athlete.
For many colleges, living on campus is a requirement for freshmen. This policy helps new students build connections, engage with campus life, and stay focused on academics. If your college requires all freshmen to live on campus, that rule applies to student-athletes as well, per NCAA regulations. However, some colleges extend this requirement to the duration of your athletic career.
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Tip: If you live on campus, bring items that help you maximize your space and comfort, like organizers or ergonomic seating options.
Some colleges provide specialized dorms for student-athletes, but these vary widely. NCAA rules require that at least 51% of dorm residents be non-athletes, so athletic housing often combines athletes and general population students. For example, Bryant Hall at the University of Alabama houses both student-athletes and engineering students and features a high-end dining hall designed to fuel both groups.
If your college doesn’t offer dedicated athlete dorms, consider rooming with a teammate. Sharing a space with someone who understands your athletic commitments can help with accountability for practice, studying, and downtime..
Full and partial athletic scholarships often include room and board, meaning they can be applied toward tuition, housing, meal plans, and other college-related costs. If you’re planning to live off-campus, check your scholarship’s terms carefully—many scholarships can be used for rent at apartments or houses.
Pro Tip: If your scholarship covers off-campus housing, consider living with teammates. Renting a shared space fosters camaraderie and helps you manage costs effectively.
As a student-athlete, your living space needs to support your physical recovery, mental health, and academic success. Here’s how to create an ideal off-campus setup:
Ready to move off-campus and create a space that works for you? At CORT, we simplify the process of furnishing your new home, offering two flexible solutions tailored to your needs:
What sets us apart is our commitment to your convenience. Here’s how we ensure your furniture is ready from day one:
Whether you choose a hassle-free package or opt to customize your space, CORT is here to provide move-in-ready furniture that lets you settle in and relax the moment it arrives. Explore our Move-in-Ready Student Furniture Packages® or at your local CORT showroom today!
Bonus: Watch Our TikTok for Inspiration!
@cortfurniture #duet with @racholwest #nflwiferoutine CORT is @NFL ♬ Lo fi hip hop 💛 (Podcast, Vlog, Advertising, Food, Travel) – Flashinmusic
Check out this quick video to see how we help students create move-in-ready spaces tailored to their needs. From stylish furniture to seamless setup, CORT is here to make your transition effortless.