Special Populations

The Room Selection lottery is based on seniority. Low seniority is a determining factor in the housing options available to sophomores and therefore singles are limited for sophomores. During Room Selection, rising sophomores are strongly encouraged to form even-numbered groups to pre-select their roommate in the event that they must choose a double room.

Students on approved study abroad leave during the spring term must register for Room Selection for the following year. The student can participate in Room Selection from abroad as either an individual or by joining a group.

Accommodations are provided for students whose disabilities substantially limit their ability to live in Columbia’s traditional housing arrangements. Students must follow the University’s Disability Housing Accommodations Procedures & Guidelines available with the Disability Housing Accommodations Registration Form.

RAs and SRAs must register for Room Selection. RA assignments are made by Residential Life. In most buildings, RAs can choose one other person to live with them. These residents are known as RA Riders.

Students living in SIC or FSL housing must register for Room Selection.

Only rising Barnard seniors are eligible to participate during Room Selection and only as members of a group. There is a cap on the number of rooms exchanged with Barnard.