Question about room and board at Arizona State University

Hey there, I'm applying to Arizona State University and I was wondering about their room and board options. What kind of dorms do they offer, and what is the cost of living on campus? Any advice from current or former students would be greatly appreciated!

Hey! Arizona State University (ASU) offers a variety of on-campus housing options across its four campuses: Tempe, Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, and West. The types of dorms available can vary by campus, but ASU generally provides suite-style and apartment-style accommodations, often with shared common areas and bathrooms.

Some dorms are organized around the Residential College model, where students live with peers who are in the same academic program or major, which promotes a sense of community and academic support. For example, students in Barrett Honors College typically live together.

Costs of living on campus can vary depending on several factors like the type of dorm, which campus you're on, and whether you have a roommate or private room. To give you a general idea, though, for the 2022-2023 academic year the estimated room and board cost ranged from around $6,000 to $9,000 per semester, including a meal plan.

Keep in mind that these costs are subject to change - they tend to trend upwards due to inflation and other factors - so it's a good idea to check the updated rates for the academic year(s) in which you're attending ASU. Don't hesitate to reach out to ASU's residential life office directly with any questions you may have.

In terms of first year housing, many students recommend getting to know your roommate beforehand through social media or ASU's roommate matching tools to ensure a compatible living situation. Also, consider applying for housing early, as spots can fill up quickly, and popular dorms might have limited availability.

When it comes to meal plans, ASU offers a range of options depending on how often you plan to eat on campus. Meal plans may include a combination of meal swipes, which can be used at the dining halls, as well as "M&G" plans, or Maroon and Gold dollars, which can be spent at various campus dining locations. During your time at ASU, you'll figure out which plan makes the most sense for your eating habits and preferences.

ASU is known for having a vibrant campus life, so living on campus can really enhance your overall experience, by offering convenience and the opportunity to make strong connections with your peers and faculty mentors, especially early on in your college career. Good luck!