Spring 2026 Housing: Key Information & Next Steps

Good afternoon,

We hope this message finds you well. We’re writing to help clarify the Spring 2026 housing process and reduce any stress—especially for students who are currently studying abroad.

Our team understands that finding housing from a distance can feel challenging. Please know we’re here to support you every step of the way. Depending on your situation, the information below will help you plan your next steps—whether you’re living off campus or on campus this spring.

The most complete and updated information (including links to all housing communications) can be found on our website.

Living Off Campus (or Considering the Off-Campus Lottery)

If you have been released from the University’s residency requirement—or are considering entering the Off-Campus Lottery—please note:

Once released, you are responsible for finding housing and signing a lease directly with a landlord or property manager. The University does not assign off-campus placements.
Deacon Place and University-owned Polo Road houses are on-campus housing managed by Residence Life and Housing.
We partner with College Pads to maintain listings of registered off-campus properties at offcampushousing.wfu.edu.
Our staff and College Pads are working to encourage landlords to post available listings. If you find a property not yet listed, the landlord can register it at offcampushousing.wfu.edu/list.
Some listings may offer individual bedrooms rather than entire units, similar to on-campus arrangements.
Students may request to return to University housing, but these requests are considered only if space is available. To submit a request, email housing@wfu.edu from your @wfu.edu address.
Once you’re released from the University’s residency requirement, you’re assumed to live off campus for the remainder of your time at Wake. You may later request to rejoin on-campus housing (e.g., senior year), but these requests are reviewed after current on-campus selection is complete.

Interested in the Off-Campus Lottery?

You may still enter before Monday, October 27 at 9 a.m. on the Housing Portal.

Living On Campus

If you do not plan to enter the Off-Campus Lottery, no action is needed this week.

More information about the Spring-Only Selection (December 10) will be shared soon. As you plan:

Spring selection occurs at the room level—you’ll select a single or double bedroom, not an entire suite/apartment.
Availability is still shifting as we learn which students are not returning. We currently anticipate availability in Martin Hall and some Polo Road houses, with more details to follow as the lottery concludes.
A complete list of available rooms will be posted by December 5 (or sooner, if possible).
We currently expect about twice as many double rooms as single rooms. If you prefer a single, please prepare a backup plan.
If you’d like to live with a friend who has/will have a vacancy in their current room, your friend must submit a pull-in request through the Housing Portal by November 15.