Utah State University is committed to making each resident feel welcomed and included in our campus communities, particularly through room options welcoming to all gender identities, expressions and preferences.
Policy Description
Gender Inclusive Housing is a living opportunity for students to select their roommates beyond the boundaries of gender constrictions. Gender Inclusive Housing is available in Wasatch Hall in the Student Living Center.
The following guiding principles apply:
- Students will be living with roommates of any sex or gender.
- Students will not be assigned to gender-neutral housing unless they have elected to do so.
- Students will not be required to reveal their reasons for opting to live in Gender Inclusive Housing.
- This program is intended for students who wish to share a room or apartment with students of a different sex, gender identity, or gender expression. It is not intended for romantic couples.
- Gender Inclusive Housing highly discourages students to room with romantic partners and will utilize an honor system for the residents to live together for relationship purposes.
- We encourage students to maintain an open dialogue with their families. Students over 18 are legally able to make decisions about their housing placements. Students under the age of 18 will need guardian approval to sign up for this housing as they have legal authority to make that determination for their student.
Gender Inclusive Housing Frequently Asked Questions
Why is USU offering gender inclusive housing?
Traditional, same-sex room assignments are not ideal or appropriate for some students. We believe it is important that housing procedures evolve to meet the needs of students to create an inclusive, welcoming environment. Gender Inclusive Housing provides options for a variety of students: Those who feel uncomfortable rooming with members of the same sex; transgender and gender non-conforming students; students who feel they would be more compatible with a roommate of a different sex or gender; and students who do not want sex or gender to be a primary factor in choosing a roommate. This procedure helps create a climate that acknowledges, appreciates, and respects the diverse nature of the USU student body, while giving students more options in finding a roommate who is truly compatible.
Who will be eligible for gender inclusive housing?
This option will be available to all full-time, degree-seeking, undergraduate, and graduate students through the housing selection process. Students are eligible to apply for housing once they have paid their housing deposit by the established deadline, and agree to a one-year housing contract. Information about payment options and fees can be found on the Housing website: https://www.usu.edu/housing/index.
Can students be randomly assigned to a roommate of the opposite sex?
No. Students who wish to take advantage of the new policy must enter into any roommate arrangement as willing partners.
Will I have a roommate?
Each student can select their own roommate through the selection process, but that will depend on the availability of spaces at the time of their request. Students who do not select a roommate will be assigned one after room selection has concluded.
Can couples live together under this policy?
The office of Housing Services and Residence Life strongly discourages couples of any sexual orientation from living with each other. We respect and honor the privacy of our students, so we do not require students to disclose the reason for their roommate request.
What if a student chooses to live with someone in a gender-neutral arrangement and becomes uncomfortable with the situation?
The University's established room change process allows for reassignment in any living situation where there is a problem that cannot be resolved.
What if parents don't want their child to live in a gender-neutral housing space? Will parents be notified if their child opts for gender-neutral housing?
We encourage students to maintain an open dialogue with their families so they can be supportive of a student's housing decision. Students over the age of 18 are legally able to make decisions about their housing assignment. It is the student's choice whether or not to tell their parents or guardians. Students under 18 should discuss housing plans with their families, as they must provide parental consent.
How to Apply or Request Additional Information
If you would like to request more information about Gender Inclusive Housing, or would like the link to apply, please contact info@housing.usu.edu.