Couple and Family Housing | Students

Columbia Residential provides housing options for eligible students, postdocs, and their families. While we are pleased to offer these accommodations, availability is limited and cannot be guaranteed.

Key Details: 
  • If both partners are eligible affiliates, only one application will be considered, and one housing offer will be issued (if approved).
  • Housing is only available for partners and dependent children; Columbia Residential cannot accommodate other friends or relatives.
  • Expectant students are eligible for family housing once they are in their third trimester or within 12 weeks of their due date.
  • Upon signing the housing agreement, residents must certify their couple or family status. 
  • Occupancy: Only the partner and/or dependent children listed in the housing application may reside in the unit. 
  • Partner & Dependent Residency: Partners and dependents must live in the unit full-time upon signing the agreement and receiving keys. They do not have independent rights to occupy the unit.
  • Termination: Partners and dependents must vacate the unit if the housing agreement ends or if the relationship with the primary resident ends, whichever comes first. 
  • Status Changes: Residents must immediately notify Columbia Residential of any relationship status changes. Failure to do so may result in reassignment, termination of the agreement, or other penalties.
  • Documentation: Residents agree to provide documentation as required to verify relationship status. 

  • False Statements: Providing false or misleading information regarding relationship status may result in termination of the housing agreement. 

Residents will be contacted to verify their couple or family status according to the following schedule: 

  • Summer: New or transfer residents from late spring and current residents renewing for the next academic year.
  • Fall: New or transfer residents from summer through early fall.
  • Spring: New or transfer residents from late fall through early spring. 

 

Important Compliance Notice 

Certification must be completed within 60 days. Failure to comply will result in required move-out and referral to Center for Student Success and Intervention (CSSI).

Residents with extenuating circumstances must email [email protected] within two business days of receiving the compliance notice to discuss alternative options. 

Residents will receive an email from Columbia Residential with a scheduling link to book a certification appointment. 

  • Appointments must be scheduled within 60 days and last 15 minutes. 
  • Availability: Weekdays, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (excluding holidays). 
  • Certification can be completed: 
  • Virtually via Microsoft Teams (a confirmation email and meeting link will be provided). 
  • In person at the Columbia Residential office (walk-ins accepted, no appointment required). 
  • Rescheduling: Changes must be made at least 24 hours in advance through the provided scheduling link. 
Certification Appointment Requirements 

All household members must be present in the same location during the appointment. The following documentation is required: 

  • Valid ID (for each household member): Columbia ID, passport, or government-issued ID. Marriage certificates are not required. 
  • For Children: If a child cannot attend the appointment, the resident must provide: 
    • A copy of the child’s birth certificate or valid ID, and 
    • A letter from the school (e.g., transcript) if applicable. 
    • Families with dependents aged 18 or older must provide proof of legal dependency, defined as a child under 24 who is enrolled full-time in an academic program. 
  • For Expectant Parents: A verification letter from a licensed healthcare provider confirming only that the student is in their third trimester or within 12 weeks of their due date. The letter should not include a diagnosis, medical history, or any other sensitive medical details.
Transferring to Couple or Family Housing 
  • Residents may apply for a transfer through the General Transfer Process or request an Off-Cycle Transfer for extenuating circumstances. Expectant residents qualify for family housing once they are in their third trimester or within 12 weeks of their due date.
  • Availability is limited, and transfers are not guaranteed. 
  • Approved transfers must complete the couple and family housing certification as outlined above. 
Transferring From Couple or Family Housing
  • Residents are required to notify Columbia Residential of any relationship status changes. Failure to do so may result in reassignment, termination of the agreement, or other penalties.
  • Columbia Residential will work with affected residents to identify transfer options aligned with their updated eligibility.

Columbia Residential is here to support residents through each step of the certification process. For any questions about eligibility, requirements, or documentation, please Contact Us.