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Announcements

2025-2026 Opening/Closing Dates

Residence Life and Housing is pleased to share the following dates related to the opening and closing of our residential communities for the 2025-2026 Academic Year. Please note these dates are subject to change.

A full 2025-2026 Academic Calendar will be made available here. The summer schedule can be found here.

Information for Academic Year 2025-2026

For those who wish to make travel arrangements now for 2025-26, please see the following dates below.

Please note that due to the limited time between semesters, we are unable to offer extensions to closing dates and, at times, may be limited in our ability to honor early arrival requests. We encourage students to consider choosing flexible travel options in the unlikely event that dates change.

Fall 2025 Dates

  • Friday, August 15 and Saturday, August 16 – Pre-Orientation Move-In

    • Students will receive their move-in instructions (including date and time frame) in mid-July after program enrollment, from Residence Life and Housing.

    • Check-in will be available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Move-in assistance will be available from 9 a.m. to noon for incoming students ONLY on Saturday, August 16.

  • Tuesday, August 19 – New International Student Move-In
    • Students will receive their move-in instructions (including date and time frame) in mid-July from Residence Life and Housing.
    • Check-in will be available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; move-in assistance will not be available.
  • Wednesday, August 20 – New Student Move-In
    • Check-In and Move-In Assistance will be available from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

    • All students are encouraged to move in by 12 p.m., but late arrivals must plan to arrive between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.

    • Students will see their suggested move-in windows in late July 2025 when they receive their housing assignments via the Housing Portal.
  • Wednesday, August 20 through Friday, August 22 – Orientation Activities (i.e. New Deac Week)
  • Thursday, August 21 through Saturday, August 23 – Continuing Student Move-In

    • Check-in will be available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Continuing students can move in on whichever day best fits their schedule.

  • Monday, August 25 – Classes Begin
  • Saturday, December 13 – Last Day of Exams
  • Sunday, December 14 – Communities close at 2 p.m. for Winter Break (unless approved for Winter Break Housing)

Spring 2026 Dates

  • Tuesday, January 6 – 9 a.m. Sorority Recruitment Early Arrivals
  • Friday, January 9
    • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Move-in for students moving on to campus for the first time this academic year
  • Saturday, January 10
    • 9 a.m. – Communities open for all students to return
  • Monday, January 12 – Classes Begin
  • Wednesday, April 29 – Last Day of Classes and Move-Out Begins
  • Saturday, May 9 – Last Day of Exams
  • Sunday, May 10  – Communities close @ 2 p.m. for non-seniors (unless approved for Interim Housing)
  • Monday, May 18 – Commencement
  • Tuesday, May 19 – Communities close @ 9 a.m. for seniors and those not approved for Interim Housing

Summer 2025

  • Tuesday, May 27 – Summer School 1 Move-In
    • Summer School Housing will be in Bostwick and Johnson Halls
  • Wednesday, May 29 – Summer School 1 Begins
    • Interim Housing Closes
  • Thursday, July 3 – Summer School 1 Close
    • Students moving out must be out by 2 pm
  • Monday, July 7 – Summer School 2 Move-In
  • Tuesday, July 8 – Summer School 2 Begins
  • Sunday, August 10 – Summer School 2 Close
    • Students moving out must be out by 2 pm
  • Monday, August 11 – Transition Day
    • For those students who are living on campus will transition directly to their Fall housing between the hours of 9 am – 2 pm.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact us at or 336.758.5185.

2026-2027 Opening/Closing Dates

Residence Life and Housing is pleased to share the following dates related to the opening and closing of our residential communities for the 2026-2027 Academic Year. Please note these dates are subject to change.

A full 2026-2027 Academic Calendar will be made available here. The summer schedule can be found here.

Information for Academic Year 2026-2027

For those who wish to make travel arrangements now for 2026-27, please see the following dates below.

Please note that due to the limited time between semesters, we are unable to offer extensions to closing dates and, at times, may be limited in our ability to honor early arrival requests. We encourage students to consider choosing flexible travel options in the unlikely event that dates change.

Summer 2026

  • Tuesday, May 26 – Summer School 1 Move-In
    • Summer School Housing will be in Bostwick and Johnson Halls
  • Wednesday, May 27 – Summer School 1 Begins
    • Interim Housing Closes
  • Thursday, July 2 – Summer School 1 Close
    • Students moving out must be out by 2 pm
  • Monday, July 6 – Summer School 2 Move-In
  • Tuesday, July 7 – Summer School 2 Begins
  • Sunday, August 9 – Summer School 2 Close
    • Students moving out must be out by 2 pm
  • Monday, August 10 – Transition Day
    • For those students who are living on campus will transition directly to their Fall housing between the hours of 9 am – 2 pm.

Fall 2026 Dates

  • Thursday, August 13
    • Check-In at the LJVM is from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    • Wilderness to Wake and Marching Band Move-In
      • No move-in assistance available
    • Forest Guides (OTP Student Staff) Move-In
  • Friday, August 14
    • Check-In at LJVM is from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
      • Move-In Assistance from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

    • All other Pre-Orientation programs Move-In

  • Tuesday, August 18 – New Student Move-In
    • Check-In at LJVM begins at 7:45 a.m.
      • Students will receive their assigned move-in window when they receive their housing assignment over the summer
    • Move-In Assistance from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
    • Late Arrivals from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Tuesday, August 18 through Friday, August 21 – Orientation Activities (i.e. New Deac Week)
  • Friday, August 21 and Saturday, August 22 – Continuing Student Move-In

    • Check-in will be available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Continuing students can move in on whichever day best fits their schedule.

      • Check-in will not be available on Thursday, August 20 so please plan accordingly
  • Monday, August 24 – Classes Begin
  • Tuesday, December 15 – Last Day of Exams
  • Wednesday, December 16 – Communities close at 2 p.m. for Winter Break (unless approved for Winter Break Housing)

Spring 2027 Dates

  • Wednesday, January 6 – Sorority Recruitment Early Arrivals
    • Potential New Members (PNMs) must be moved in by 2 p.m.
    • A limited number of leadership members will arrive on Tuesday, January 5. For questions, please consult with your chapter, council, or the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Engagement.
  • Friday, January 8
    • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Move-in for students moving on to campus for the first time this academic year
  • Saturday, January 9
    • 9 a.m. – Communities open for all students to return
  • Monday, January 11 – Classes Begin
  • Monday, April 26– Last Day of Classes and Move-Out Begins
  • Wednesday, May 5 – Last Day of Exams
  • Thursday, May 6  – Communities close @ 2 p.m. for non-seniors (unless approved for Interim Housing)
  • Monday, May 17 – Commencement
  • Tuesday, May 18 – Communities close @ 9 a.m. for seniors and those not approved for Interim Housing

If you have questions or concerns, please contact us at or 336.758.5185.

Spring 2026 Communications

To view our Spring 2026 Communications, please click below:

Wednesday, April 22

Friday, April 17

Thursday, April 9

Monday, April 6

Tuesday, March 31

Monday, March 25

Monday, March 16

Tuesday, March 3

Monday, February 23

Tuesday, February 17

Friday, February 6

Thursday, February 5

Monday, January 26

Thursday, January 22

Thursday, January 15

Wednesday, January 14

Tuesday, January 13

Monday, January 12

Monday, December 15

 

 

 

February 2026 Parent & Family Newsletter

Spring is (hopefully) just around the corner here on campus, and so is Housing Selection!

In this month’s newsletter, we’re covering Housing Selection, RA offers for the 2026-27 Academic Year, and preparing for Spring Break.

HOUSING SELECTION

At this point, Rising Juniors and Rising Seniors have been notified of the outcome of their housing lottery entry for either the On-Campus or Off-Campus Lottery. We recognize that these results may bring a range of emotions for students and families. Please know that our office is here to help—students are encouraged to contact us directly with any questions () or if they would like support in understanding their options and next steps.

For students living on campus for the 2026–27 Academic Year:
The next important step is to form and finalize roommate groups. As students explore suite and apartment options within their assigned residential communities, they should work toward creating groups that fill an entire suite. Our Academic-Year Housing Selection is suite-based, meaning students may only select housing options that match the size of their finalized group. Click here to learn more about housing availability by class year.

For students living off campus for 2026–27:
The next step is to begin securing off-campus housing. Students can view approved properties through the Off-Campus Housing Marketplace. When reviewing options, they should carefully consider lease lengths (12-, 18-, or 24-month) and select the option that best aligns with their circumstances.

For students studying abroad during Fall 2026 and returning to on-campus for Spring 2027:
Students should ensure they have signed their Study Abroad Agreement in the Housing Portal. No additional action is required at this time. Our office will begin sharing information about the Spring-Only Housing Selection process in October. Please note that if a student decides not to study abroad, they must notify the Center for Global Programs & Studies by March 31 in order to be eligible for Academic Year Housing Selection in April.

As always, we appreciate your partnership and are committed to supporting students through each step of the housing selection process.

RESIDENT ADVISER SELECTION

Students who participated in RA recruitment for the 2026-2027 school year will receive communication regarding hiring decisions by the end of February. With a record number of exceptional applicants this year, we could not be more excited about the student leadership that will be present in our communities next year. 

While we recognize and appreciate your support for your student, please understand that we cannot discuss employment decisions with anyone other than the applicant. If you’d like to understand more about the selection process, please visit our student employment webpage. 

SPRING BREAK

As Spring Break (March 7-15) approaches, we encourage you to review our Breaks and Inspections webpage, which includes resources/tips for students leaving campus for the break. Our residential communities will remain open during this time.

Finally, if your student is returning for the 2026-27 school year, we’re linking our Opening and Closing Dates here. Please reference these dates as you plan your travel for the upcoming year.

Have any questions? We’re available during the week at 336.758.5185 and via email at .

Senior Housing

Wake Forest remains deeply committed to a vibrant, residential undergraduate experience. As the University pursues a modest, phased increase in undergraduate enrollment, demand for campus housing has grown. At the same time, planned renovations — including work at Babcock Hall — will slightly reduce overall housing capacity for the coming year.

While we strive to provide on-campus housing for students who wish to remain on campus, we must prioritize those who are still required to meet the University’s residency requirement. 

Senior Housing Demand and Lottery Process

To better anticipate demand, Residence Life and Housing asked rising seniors to indicate their housing plans for the 2026–27 academic year. More than 375 rising seniors shared that they intended to live on campus.

In early communications beginning in December 2025, we informed students that increased enrollment, strong demand for campus housing, and planned renovations could limit our ability to accommodate every senior who wished to remain on campus. We also shared that an On-Campus Housing Lottery would be used if necessary.

Through that process:

  • Fewer than 75 seniors were not granted on-campus status
  • Those students have been placed on a waitlist, should space become available.
  • Seniors with scholarships requiring on-campus residency were confirmed in collaboration with the Scholars Office and factored into housing considerations.

Students’ interest in remaining on campus after completing their residency requirement varies year to year. Depending on demand and capacity, we may need to continue using a senior housing lottery process in future years.

Enrollment and Capacity

Residence Life and Housing works closely with partners across the University to inform enrollment decisions and ensure that the residential experience remains central to Wake Forest. Planned enrollment growth is balanced alongside residence hall renovations and improvements to maximize housing for students required to live on campus. 

For the upcoming year, increased enrollment, strong demand for campus housing, and planned renovations limited our ability to provide housing for all students who want it. The newly announced affiliate housing program will help us expand pathways for students to experience a dynamic residential experience, both on- and off-campus.

Supporting Students Transitioning Off Campus

We understand that seniors who were not granted on-campus housing may feel stress, particularly given the timing of the off-campus housing market. Housing plays an important role in students’ sense of stability and belonging, and we recognize that this outcome may feel disappointing or personal.

We recognize that some students sign off-campus leases as early as the fall of sophomore year, while others’ timelines vary based on individual circumstances. We remain committed to providing guidance and resources to seniors as they navigate next steps. Our focus is on supporting affected students in clear and practical ways:

  • Housing Search Support: We partner with College Pads to assist students in identifying off-campus options and maintain regular communication with local landlords to monitor availability. While options may not reflect every student’s first choice, we remain confident that housing is available in the Winston-Salem market.
  • Financial Guidance: Students should contact Financial Aid to understand how living off campus may impact their aid package. Students with immediate expenses, such as application fees, who need assistance should contact in the Dean of Students’ office to explore available support. 
  • Transportation: Students without vehicles are encouraged to consider off-campus housing served by the Wake Line. Residence Life and Housing will remain in close communication with Parking & Transportation as off-campus student concentrations become clearer, so they can evaluate routes for potential modifications.

Looking Ahead

Historically, Residence Life and Housing has accommodated most seniors who wished to remain on campus. However, circumstances have shifted in recent years, and we have communicated transparently that our capacity to house students who have completed the residency requirement would be more constrained.

Even with advanced communication, we recognize that outcomes can feel unexpected or upsetting. Our responsibility now is to move forward with transparency and care—listening to student concerns, improving how we communicate expectations, and supporting seniors throughout the housing process.

We are also actively expanding pathways to fulfill the residency requirement through the Affiliate Housing program launching in Fall 2027. By offering junior-year options at student-centered private properties, we aim to increase flexibility and expand our capacity to house seniors who wish to remain on campus in future years.

As space becomes available, we will continue to move students off the Return to Housing waitlist.

Wake Forest remains committed to ensuring that every senior has the information, resources, and support needed to make a confident housing plan for their final year.

Storage Scholars

 

Storage Scholars is a preferred moving, storage, and shipping partner of Wake Forest University. From securely storing your belongings during breaks to ensuring safe delivery of packages, Storage Scholars has consistently demonstrated their commitment to excellence. Look no further than Storage Scholars for a hassle-free experience, superior customer service, and peace of mind. Visit their website to learn more and explore the comprehensive range of student storage, moving, and shipping services offered to the WFU community.

Sign Up Now For Wake Forest University Student Storage

How Summer Storage & Moving Works at Wake Forest University:

  1. Pack & Lock – After receiving our free packing supplies, pack your belongings, lock everything in your room, and leave at your convenience.
  2. Pick-Up & Store – After exams, your school provides our student team access to your room, so we can transport and store your items in a local, secure, and temperature-controlled facility.
  3. Delivery – Your belongings will be delivered to your new room on campus the week before classes start or we’ll deliver off campus on your preferred date.
  4. Shipping – We can ship boxes home for the summer, or to your first apartment a few months after graduation (optional).

Learn More

 

March 2026 Parent & Family Newsletter

We hope your student had a restorative spring break and that you’ve enjoyed the changing of the seasons wherever you call home.

As we approach the final stretch of the semester, we want to share important dates and helpful reminders to support your student’s transition—from heading home for the summer, remaining on campus for summer courses, or choosing housing for next academic year.

Important End-of-Semester Dates

Monday, April 13 – Thursday, April 16

  • Housing Selection for 2026-27 Academic Year

Wednesday, April 29

  • Last day of classes
  • 24/7 Quiet Hours begin in all communities
  • RLH staff will be available to assist with Standard Check-outs from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Outside of that window, residents must do an Express Check-out.

Saturday, May 9

  • Final exams conclude

Sunday, May 10 at 2 p.m.

  • Residential communities close for non-seniors (unless approved for Interim Housing)
    • Those approved for Interim Housing will receive details about their transition from RLH
  • RLH staff will be available to assist with Standard Check-outs  from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Monday, May 18

  • Commencement

Tuesday, May 19 at 9 a.m.

  • Residential communities close for seniors and students not approved for Interim Housing
    • Those approved for Interim Housing will receive details about their transition from RLH

Interim Housing

Application opens: Monday, April 20
Application closes: Monday, May 4

Interim Housing is available to students who meet specific criteria to remain on campus between closing and summer housing. This includes:

  • Students transitioning to summer housing
  • Student-athletes in active competition
  • Students officially involved with Commencement
  • Students with a graduating sibling

Please note: Graduating seniors with a Pending Completion status in Workday do not need to request Interim Housing.

Summer School Housing

Application opens: Monday, April 20

Summer Session 1 and Full Summer Application closes: Tuesday, May 26

Summer Session 2 Application closes: Monday, July 6

Summer housing is available for students engaged with the University during the summer term, including those who are:

  • Enrolled in courses
  • Participating in University-sponsored programs
  • Conducting faculty-sponsored research (enrolled in a 390 research course)
  • Employed by the University

Important Changes

  • For summer school housing, students will indicate their preference for a single or double. Those preferencing a double will have the opportunity to indicate a roommate of choice or update their roommate matching answers.
  • Students who live on-campus for both summer sessions will receive one housing credit towards the University’s six-semester residency requirement.

Move-Out Reminders

Move-out can feel fast-paced and overwhelming. Your encouragement and reminders can help your student avoid unnecessary charges and reduce stress.

Please encourage your student to:

Leave Their Space Empty & Clean

  • Fully clean their room before departure
  • Remove and dispose of all belongings
  • Use designated garbage, recycling, and donation areas in their community

Anything left behind will be donated or removed after closing, and charges may apply.

Check Shared Spaces

  • Laundry rooms
  • Community kitchens
  • Shared bathroom counters

Prepare Appliances & Keys

  • Clear and defrost refrigerators (if applicable)
  • Locate and prepare keys for return

Planning ahead—even a few days in advance—can make the checkout process much smoother.

Housing Selection for Fall 2026

Students returning to campus for Fall 2026 will select housing during the week of April 13.

If your student has questions, we encourage them to contact our office directly. We offer:

  • In-person assistance opportunities
  • Phone support
  • Email support

All details are available on the Housing Selection website.

We’re Here to Help

If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out:

336-758-5185
h

Thank you for your continued partnership as we support your student through a busy and exciting time of year.

April 2026 Parent & Family Newsletter

Campus is in bloom, and the time to plan for move-out has come! This month, we have some final reminders for you as to what to expect from the move-out process this year, Interim and Summer housing, 2026-27 dates, and a welcome to Class of ‘30 parents!

Spring Move-Out

Please review our Move-Out webpage, where you’ll find everything you or your students need in preparation for leaving campus for the summer – as you help them finalize planning, encourage them to review this website to make sure they feel prepared for move-out day. Students will continue to receive reminders from our office and their community staff regarding important move-out information so checking emails regularly is highly encouraged.  

As a reminder, the important dates for closing this year are below:

Wednesday, April 29

    • Last day of classes
  • 24/7 Quiet Hours begin in all communities
  • RLH staff will be available to assist with Standard Check-outs from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Outside of that window, residents must do an Express Check-out.

Saturday, May 9

  • Final exams conclude

Sunday, May 10 at 2 p.m.

  • Residential communities close for non-seniors (unless approved for Interim Housing)
    • Those approved for Interim Housing will receive details about their transition from RLH
  • RLH staff will be available to assist with Standard Check-outs  from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Monday, May 18

  • Commencement

Tuesday, May 19 at 9 a.m.

  • Residential communities close for seniors and students not approved for Interim Housing
  • Those approved for Interim Housing will receive details about their transition from RLH

Interim Housing and Summer School

To learn more about these options, please visit our website

2026-27 Important Dates

As you plan travel for the next academic year, please review our 2026-27 Important Dates. Please note that we are unable to grant individual early arrival requests, and students should plan to arrive on their designated move-in date.

Welcome to the Class of 2030

Finally, we’d like to extend a huge welcome to our incoming students! Class of ’30 parents and families can learn more about arrival to campus in August by visiting our Incoming Students website.

We’re Here to Help

If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out:

336-758-5185
h

Thank you for your continued partnership as we support your students through a busy and exciting time of year.

Affiliate Housing @ Creekside at The Grounds

May 2026 - Off-Campus Landlord Updates

To: Landlords/Property Managers Listed with RLH and/or College Pads

Subject: Off-Campus Housing Update – Effective May 2026

Dear Partners – 

I’m writing to share an important update on how Residence Life and Housing will engage with off-campus landlords moving forward. As our off-campus housing needs continue to evolve, we are refining our approach to provide a more streamlined experience for you and our students. 

Effective May 2026, all landlords leasing to Wake Forest students will be required to participate in a standardized registration process with the University. 

Registration will include an agreement to the updated Landlord Terms and Conditions. Registered landlords will be listed on the Housing Portal for students to select during their off-campus address submission. 

Additionally, registered landlords will be asked to submit leasing data semi-annually, including projected leasing volume, average rent, and remaining availability across upcoming terms. This expanded benchmarking will enable the University to better understand the market and more proactively support students exploring off-campus housing.

In addition to registering, you may still choose to market specific properties to enhance visibility to students. College Pads will continue to be our listing partner and maintain the offcampushousing.wfu.edu marketplace. 

The University continues to advance the Affiliate Housing initiative. As announced in early April, Creekside at The Grounds will serve as the University’s affiliate housing property. Creekside will be the sole affiliate housing provider in this initial stage of the program. We will communicate opportunities for other properties as they arise. 

We value the role you play in housing and supporting our students and appreciate your continued partnership. Registration and a revised landlord resources page are available on our website.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions as we move forward.

Best regards,

Zach Blackmon, Ph.D., MBA | Director of Operations

May 2026 Parent & Family Newsletter

As one chapter closes for the Class of 2026, another begins for our continuing and incoming students. This month, we celebrate our graduating Deacs, welcome our newest Deacs, and share important reminders to help your student prepare for what’s next.

Celebrating the Class of 2026

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2026!

If your student is graduating, please know that you — and your Deac — will always have a home away from home here at Wake Forest.

We also want to offer special thanks and congratulations to our graduating Resident Advisers (RAs) and Graduate Staff. Their leadership, care, and commitment have made a lasting impact on our residential communities. We are deeply grateful for their service and the example they set for fellow students.

Incoming Students (Class of 2030)

For families of our incoming Deacs, welcome! We are excited to partner with you as your student prepares to join our campus community.

Important Deadline: June 1, 2026

By this date, incoming students must complete:

How to Complete the Housing Application

  • The application is available in the Housing Portal.
  • Only students can access the portal using their @wfu.edu email address.
  • Students requesting disability-related accommodations should visit our Housing & Dining Accommodations page and submit all required documentation by June 1.

We encourage you and your student to continue referencing the Incoming Student page for updates, FAQs, and move-in planning information as the fall semester approaches.

Summer Housing

For students returning to campus this summer, please review the following key dates:

Summer Session 1

  • May 26 – Deadline for Summer Session 1 Applications
  • May 26 – Check-in between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at RLH Office in Angelou Hall
  • July 2 – Check-out by 2 p.m.

Summer Session 2

  • June 15 – Deadline to submit Summer Session 2 preferences
  • June 25 – Assignments released (for students who applied by June 15)
  • July 6 – Deadline for Summer Session 2 Applications
  • July 6 – Check-in between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at RLH Office in Angelou Hall
  • August 9 – Check-Out by 2 p.m.
  • August 10 – Transition Day
    • Students living on campus for Fall 2026 will transition to their 2026-27 housing on this day.

Students can find additional details on the Summer Housing webpage. We encourage them to review deadlines carefully to ensure a smooth transition.

We’re Here to Help

If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out:

336-758-5185

We hope that you have a fantastic summer and take time to rest and recharge alongside your student.

Please remind your students to stay tuned for communications from our office to their ‘@wfu.edu’ email address.

As always, Go Deacs!