First-Time Freshmen

New Student Convocation

We are glad that you are interested in on-campus housing at Old Dominion University. Before you apply for on-campus housing, please carefully read the information provided in the links below.

By applying for housing at Old Dominion University, you are agreeing to the full Terms and Conditions of the Housing and Dining Contract and entering into a legally binding agreement. As it is a legally binding agreement, it is important for you to fully understand the conditions of the agreement. Please take time to review the documents and the information provided.

We look forward to having you join our community and wish you the best of luck here at Old Dominion University!

First-Time Freshmen

A first-time freshman student is an incoming student who does not currently attend Old Dominion University or any other university during the academic year (High school students with AP credits are considered first-time freshmen).

How to Begin

  1. Browse through your options for Living-Learning Communities and Residential Communities.
  2. Pay the $200 Admissions Deposit to confirm your enrollment at Old Dominion University.
  3. Activate your ODU MIDAS ID. The ODU MIDAS ID and password provide access to the ODU Housing Portal.
  4. Obtain a valid credit/debit card for the $250 housing application fee.
  5. Review assignment policy. Acceptance of the Housing & Dining Contract does not guarantee a specific room assignment.
  6. Begin your housing application.

New Freshmen Timeline & Action Items

  • January 17 – Launch new freshman housing application webpage

  • January 31 – New Freshman Housing Application Opens via the ODU Housing Portal (12:00 p.m.)

  • April 1 (Ongoing) – New Freshmen LLC Statuses & Self-Selection

  • May 28 – Early action deadline for New Freshmen 

  • May 31 – Timeslot notifications for New Freshmen Self-Selection

  • June 4 - 30 – Self-Selection for New Freshmen 

    • June 4 – Selection for students who applied by May 28

    • June 6 – Open Selection for students who applied after May 28

  • June 15 – Cancellation deadline for $200 credit

  • July 9 (Ongoing) - Auto-Allocation of New Freshmen who applied on or after July 1 or who did not participate in self-selection and are not a part of a special interest group

Expanded Housing

Housing & Residence Life may find it necessary to expand our capacity to support the opportunity for as many students as possible to live at ODU. Expanded housing accommodations for students may include the temporary expansion of on-campus spaces or securing off-site housing accommodations.

Residential amenities offered for traditional assignments are available to students living in expanded housing. These include room furnishings, desk coverage, secure access, staffing, laundry, meals, and shuttle service. Residents can and should utilize all campus resources available to any student living on-campus housing. Our staff are committed to ensuring your academic success wherever you reside.

Any student who completes an application for on-campus housing can be assigned to temporary accommodations. The length of stay can range from a few days to an entire semester. If a student is assigned to a temporary space, they will be reassigned to a permanent room as space permits. Moving assistance is available as needed. As with on-campus housing, you will be asked to consolidate your room if there is a vacancy. Our goal is to ensure you have a rewarding experience.

Please continue to check your ODU student email for updates.