Getting started with your housing search

We are here to help

Whether you plan to live on or off-campus the Dean of Students Office is here to help with all aspects of the housing process and student living. We can help you search for the perfect unit, plan meals and transportation, find roommates, sign a lease, and navigate the city.

Step 1:

When you receive your acceptance letter from the Admissions Office take some time to choose your preferred accommodations and lifestyle at MSU Denver. If staying at home is your choice, you’re welcome to do that. If you’re considering relocating, follow the prompts to explore your options

Step 2: 

Determine whether on-campus or off-campus living is the best fit for you while attending MSU Denver. Pay close attention to cost, ability to pay, and any required amenities.

Step 3:

Once you’ve reviewed your options, prepare a budget for paying ongoing housing and cost of living. You’ll need this information when completing your FAFSA and scholarship applications.

The Housing search begins sooner than you might expect. It’s never too early to take these important first steps. There’s no need to feel overwhelmed by the process – we’re here to guide you through it step by step.

January – March

• Determine if you are living on or off campus.
• Applications for On-Campus housing open January 1 or 2, start your contract once you decide MSU is the place for you, and check your email for communication. Please review the cancelation process for housing and dining.
• Familiarize yourself with the average rental cost (on and off-campus) and determine your housing budget.
• If off campus, Consider where you want to live in the metro area and look into transportation to campus.
• Decide on accommodations needed to live and what options offer those amenities.
• Identify any barriers to housing and reach out for assistance.

April-June

• Landlords who know their property will be available for fall occupancy begin advertising. New listings may be added at any time. Dedicate time each week to your housing search.
• Student-friendly apartments will open applications for the upcoming fall semester.
• Search for rentals, student sublets, and roommates.
• Contact the landlord or property manager of the unit in which you are interested. Ask about the availability of units, prices of units, and roommate matching assistance.
• When speaking to the property, ask about the total cost and proof of income. There will be application fees and a security deposit, ask about the total cost of the application before viewing.
• View the property and meet the prospective landlord or property management. Be prepared and on time. Be sure to ask questions about the property and voice any concerns.
• Complete the application with the interested property. Applying does not guarantee you will be offered a spot. While waiting on a decision, continue to search for other units.
• Provide proof of income, this will be your financial aid return, student loans, or pay stubs.

July-August

• If you haven’t secured housing by now, it’s time to intensify your search. Consider the following ways you might adjust your search strategy.
• Reassess your needs. Flexibility in price range, preferred location, space needs, or other preferred features may open up need possibilities.
• Reach out to the Dean of Students office for guidance and any last-minute availability. It’s not guaranteed but situations can change quickly.
• Read emails about updates, needed documents, and other move-in details.
• The majority of move-ins are scheduled first or second week of August.
• When you receive your financial aid return, plan out your payment schedule through January and fill any missing gaps for funding.
• Decide on interest in commuter-friendly meal plans. 

Septemeber-October

• Check out the university housing website to see any updates about housing opportunities.
• Consider your holiday break schedule and if your property requires you to move out.
• Evaluate your budget for recurring rental payments and seek assistance as soon as you anticipate needing help.
• Spring application for on-campus housing opens in October, see the housing website for details.

November-January

• Check-in on budget and ability to pay through mid-January, financial aid for spring is not distributed till mid January.
• Think about your future housing plans: whether you intend to stay in your current unit or move elsewhere. Begin preparing for the transition and identify potential challenges, such as cost or transportation.

This information is solely intended as a service to MSU Denver students and those persons affiliated with the University. The University does not endorse or recommend any specific landlord, individual property owner, property management company, or individual person and inclusion of any listing should not be construed as such. MSU Denver does not inspect any of the properties listed or available on this resource list and does not guarantee nor warranty, either express or implied, the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or reliability of any listed property or information associated therewith. While all efforts have been made to include correct and current information, MSU Denver cannot guarantee the availability of any listings beyond the original date of posting and the information listed is subject to change without further notice. MSU Denver does not warrant that the use of any information contained in a listing is free of any claims of copyright infringement.