Future Residents

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Studies show that students who live on campus graduate sooner and succeed academically at higher rates than students who live off-campus. Living in Student Housing is the ultimate way to experience CSU San Marcos, as you'll find plenty of opportunities to expand your academic knowledge, build friendships, and explore the diverse campus culture. As a resident student, you'll have convenient access to your professors, the library, computer labs, and recreational facilities. You'll avoid the challenges of commuting, providing you with more time for studying, socializing, working, exercising, or pursuing your personal interests.

This is not just "a place to live." Student Housing is your gateway to the complete CSU San Marcos experience, the place to succeed.

First-Time Student Live-on Requirement

Since the beginning in Fall 2012, CSUSM has maintained a requirement for first-time, first-year undergraduate students to live on campus. Demand for on-campus housing at CSUSM is currently very high. Housing will be prioritized for new undergraduate students based on the distance to their permanent home address. All first-time, first-year undergraduate students under the age of 21 whose permanent address is 40 miles or more from the San Marcos campus are subject to this requirement and receive the highest priority for on-campus housing.

Students subject to the live-on requirement may submit a request for exemption. See the Housing Exemption Request Form for more details. If you have questions about the exemption process or need assistance completing the form, please contact Housing at (760) 750-3711. You can also email your questions regarding housing exemptions to housing@csusm.edu. 

Students who live closer to campus and apply for housing will initially be placed on a waitlist and will be offered housing if space becomes available during the summer months. If you live closer than 40 miles, you may choose to commute from home or find off-campus housing. The Dean of Students' office has created a useful website for finding Off Campus Housing if you prefer to seek off-campus housing right away.

Fall 2026-Spring 2027 Application

Renters Insurance

CSUSM Housing has partnered with GradGuard to offer an affordable College Renters Insurance Plan to protect your personal belonings.

• GradGuard College Renters Insurance Plan

Meal Plans

All North Commons & Black Oak Hall residents are required to purchase a meal plan before moving into their suite. Residents at the Quad and UVA are able to purchase an optional meal plan. Purchasing a meal plan can be found on the dining services website.

Meal Plan Information

Meal Plan OverviewUsing your Meal Plan

Meal Plan FAQsCalFresh and EBT

Immunization for Resident Students

Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY) immunization administered within the last four years is highly recommended for all first-time CSUSM residential students (living in university or affiliated housing) who are 21 years or younger.

Parking Permit

All students who park at CSUSM will need to purchase a parking permit. Parking and Commuter Services has multiple parking permit options for our parking options around CSUSM!