What's Changing?

FALL 2026

All incoming first-year students (non-transfer) are required to live in university housing for their first two (2) academic years.

• First-Year Residence Halls: Desmond, Jenkins, Draper, Sierra, Klamath, Riverview, & Mt. Whitney
• Upper Division/Transfers Residence Halls: American River Courtyard & Hornet Commons

FALL 2027

The two-year requirement continues for new incoming first-year students.

By living on campus for two years, students gain more than a place to live; they gain a connected community that supports their academic and personal growth. This requirement aligns with system-wide graduation initiatives and ensures that every Hornet has equitable access to the resources, networks, and experiences that promote success.

North Village Updates

New Residence Halls & Occupancy Changes

▪ Mt. Whitney Hall - Opening Fall 2026
Brand-new residence hall providing 335 new beds for first-year students within a modern and supportive community.

▪ Riverview Hall
Housing only first-year students with an additional 160 single beds converted from upper-division housing to foster a building-wide shared experience that enhances peer connection and support

▪ Upper-division Student Housing Communities:
American River Courtyard will remain home for upper-division students within North Village. Also located on the south end of campus, Hornet Commons will continue providing apartment-style housing for upper-division students at Sacramento State.

Residential Curriculum

• Promote student growth through intentional programming tailored to the first-year and second-year experience.
• Emphasis is placed on belonging, wellness, academic success, and life skills.
• Collaborations with campus partners to integrate further academic and wellness initiatives into the residential experience.

Enhanced Student Engagement & Social Integration

• Increased Student-Led Programming: More social, inclusive, and late-night/weekend programs.
• Traditions: “Hornet First Night” and other large-scale campus program opportunities.

Exceptions

Sacramento State understands that some students may have unique circumstances. Students may apply for an exemption under specific conditions from the live-on requirement for reasons including, but not limited to:

Local Residency

Living with immediate family within:

• 50 miles or less from campus - Applies to Academic Year 2026-2027
• 30 miles or less from campus - Applies to Academic Year 2027-2028

Age

• Student is 21 years of age or older by the first day of classes for the applicable term

Independent Student Status

• Student is considered independent on the FAFSA

Military or Veteran Status

• Student is an active-duty service memeber or U.S. Veteran

Financial Hardship Consideration

• Demonstrated and verified financial hardship

Live-In Employment

• Student is required to live at their job site as a care provider

Study Abroad or Away/Academic Internship

• Internship or study program requiring a student to reside outside of Sacramento County

Medical or Disability Considerations

• Student has a documented condition that cannot be accommodated in campus housing

Other Special Circumstances

• Reviewed individually