FAQ | The Arbor Relocation

This page shares important information about the upcoming housing transition for residents of 3260 Henry Hudson Parkway, also known as The Arbor. We are committed to supporting you throughout this process by clearly outlining available options, key timelines, and the resources in place to help you plan your next steps with confidence.

We understand that this transition may raise questions or concerns. Members of the Columbia Residential team will be reaching out to residents individually to provide guidance, respond to questions, and offer personalized support.

This page will continue to be updated as additional details become available.

What is happening to The Arbor?

Columbia University has entered into an agreement to sell The Arbor. The building’s location created unique challenges in supporting and servicing a residential building that was geographically isolated from the University’s main campuses. Its sale will allow the University to redistribute and reinvest facilities resources more efficiently across our existing residential portfolio. The sale is expected to close in late April. Our team is committed to supporting residents throughout the transition.

Will I lose my Columbia housing because of this change?

No. Current Arbor residents may remain in their apartments through the end of their existing housing agreement. Your rent amount, billing process, and lease terms will remain unchanged during this time. Columbia Residential will continue to work closely with residents to help them understand their options and plan next steps.

Who will manage the building after the sale?

Once the sale is finalized, building management responsibilities will transfer to the new ownership. Columbia has included transition provisions in the contract to help support continuity and minimize disruption for current residents.

Will the Arbor shuttle continue to operate?

Columbia Residential will continue operating the Arbor shuttle through the Spring 2026 academic term. After May 31, shuttle service will be reduced, but service is expected to continue through August 31. Plans for Fall 2026 have not yet been finalized. We will share updates as soon as they are available to help residents plan ahead.

Residents who are considering remaining at The Arbor beyond the Spring term are encouraged to keep the anticipated reduction in shuttle service in mind as they make their housing plans.

Can I move out earlier if I secure other housing?

Yes. Residents may move out at any time before the end of their lease agreement. Rent will be prorated through your move-out date, and the standard cancelation fee will be waived to help support residents during this transition.

My housing eligibility ends in August, what should I do?

Residents whose eligibility extends through August may remain in their current apartment until August 31, 2026 by signing their renewal agreement when it becomes available. Our team will share additional details and reminders to help you plan accordingly. Residents also have the option to cancel their agreement and move out by May 31, 2026 without penalty.

My housing eligibility ends in December, what are my options?

Residents with eligibility through December 2026 may choose to:

  • Renew their agreement to remain at The Arbor through December 31, 2026.
  • Apply to transfer to another Columbia Residential apartment.
    To participate in the transfer process, residents must submit a General Transfer application through the Housing Portal. Arbor residents will be invited to participate in a special priority transfer round in late April, where they will be able to view and select from available units.
    If a resident selects an apartment with a move-in date after May 31, they will be extended in their current Arbor unit until their new apartment becomes available.
  • Cancel their agreement and move out by May 31, 2026 without penalty. 

Please note: Residents who do not transfer and cancel their housing after May 31, 2026 will be subject to the standard cancelation policy and any applicable fees.

I am eligible to remain in Columbia housing beyond this year. What are my options?

Residents who expect to continue their academic affiliation beyond this year qualify for priority transfer consideration and may:

  • Apply to transfer to another Columbia Residential apartment
    To participate in the transfer process, residents must submit a General Transfer application through the Housing Portal. Arbor residents will be invited to participate in a special priority transfer round in late April, where they will be able to view and select from available units.Selecting a new unit and moving before or during the summer will offer the greatest range of options, as these placements are prioritized ahead of incoming student assignments.
    Move-in timing will depend on the availability of the unit selected. If a resident selects an apartment with a move-in date after May 31, they will be extended in their current Arbor unit until their new apartment becomes available.
  • Cancel their agreement and move out by May 31, 2026 without penalty 

Please note: Residents who choose not to transfer and cancel their housing after May 31, 2026 will be subject to the standard cancelation policy and any applicable fees.

Will short-term extensions be available?

Yes. Students whose housing eligibility ends in May may be eligible to request a short-term housing extension, including:

Students who are approved for either of these short-term extension options will not be charged the standard 20% administrative fee.

We understand that individual circumstances may vary. Students with extenuating situations are still welcome to submit a request for review, even if the stated deadline has passed.

I planned to sublet my apartment this summer, can I still do that?

New sublets will not be approved at this building. Residents who expect to be away during the summer or fall are encouraged to contact our office so we can discuss available options and help you plan next steps.

What if I need more time to complete my degree?

Students who require continued housing for academic reasons should submit an Affiliation Review Request in the Housing Portal by March 31. Requests will be reviewed and decided by your school.

What does “priority transfer” mean?

Priority transfer provides relocated residents with a dedicated housing selection period before incoming students. To participate, submit a transfer application by April 3. Housing selection is expected to take place in April.

Will I be able to choose my new apartment?

Yes. Eligible residents will participate in the standard Housing Selection process during the priority transfer period where they can view and select from all available inventory. 

What types of apartments will be available?

Most move-outs occur at the end of the academic year, so early April is typically when the largest number of apartments becomes available. Residents relocating from The Arbor will have the opportunity to select from this inventory before incoming students.

I am a GS student. Are there additional options?

Yes. GS students will have the opportunity to select housing options at UTS, TC, and at 99 Claremont Avenue, a new GS residence opening in July. Students choosing this option may remain at The Arbor until the new building opens.

I have an approved housing accommodation through the Office of Disability Services. How can I ensure my needs are met?

Columbia Residential will contact residents with accommodations on file to discuss appropriate transfer options. You may also reach out directly to our team with any questions or concerns.

Can I transfer with my current roommate?

Yes. Residents who wish to transfer together should contact our office to discuss a group transfer request. We will make every effort to support these requests based on apartment availability.

Will I be able to participate in transfer selection later?

Additional priority transfer opportunities will not be available after the April selection period, as the Fall housing selection process begins in May for incoming residents.

Continuing students who may be eligible to participate in the October General Transfer period should be aware that apartment availability during this time is typically very limited and is expected to be even more constrained this year due to the overall reduction in available housing. Participation in the transfer process does not guarantee placement. 

Students who do not secure a transfer apartment will be required to move out of Columbia Residential housing at the end of their housing agreement.

When should I complete my transfer move?

Residents are generally expected to move within two weeks of the new apartment’s ready date; however, flexibility can be provided. Please contact our office with individual requests and we will work with you to establish a timeline that works.  

Will moving support be provided?

Residents are responsible for coordinating and completing their own move. As a special support measure for continuing students impacted by the relocation from The Arbor, students transferring to another Columbia Residential apartment will also receive a $500 credit to help offset moving expenses.

Will I owe fees if I move out early?

No. Residents who move out on or before the end of their lease agreement will have rent prorated through their move-out date, and the standard cancellation fee will be waived as part of the relocation support being provided.

Will my rent change if I transfer?

Yes. If you choose to transfer, the rent for your new apartment will reflect the rate listed for that unit in the Housing Portal.

How is rent handled if I transfer mid-semester?

Your current apartment rent will be prorated to your move-out date and billing for your new apartment will begin the following day. Our process is designed to ensure that you are not charged rent for two apartments at the same time during your transition.

If I am issued a renewal for my current apartment after May 31, will my rent increase?

Yes. Any renewal for the 2026–2027 academic year will be subject to the standard annual rent adjustment of 2–5%, which takes effect on June 1.

Once the updated rates are finalized, eligible residents will receive a renewal offer that reflects the new rent. This is intended to give you clear and complete information so you can make an informed decision about your housing plans. 

How will the moving support credit be applied?

Eligible residents who remain within Columbia Residential housing and complete an internal transfer will receive a $500 relocation credit to help offset moving-related expenses.

This credit is available only to residents transferring to another Columbia Residential apartment. Residents who move to non–Columbia housing or whose Columbia affiliation is ending are not eligible, as they would have been required to vacate at the end of their housing agreement regardless of the building transition.

No additional application is required. The credit will be issued automatically after you have fully vacated your Arbor apartment and your move-out has been confirmed by building staff. It will be applied directly to your student account.

Do you have any recommendations for finding off-campus housing?

Students who prefer to explore other options may also review listings in the Off-Campus Housing Marketplace.

How can I get help with my relocation plans?

Members of the Columbia Residential team will be reaching out to residents individually to provide guidance, respond to questions, and offer personalized support. Residents who would like to review their housing options, discuss individual circumstances, or develop a relocation plan will have an opportunity to do so through this outreach. Support will be tailored based on eligibility, timing, and housing preferences.

For general or quick questions that do not require an in-depth discussion, residents may also:

  • Contact our office by email at [email protected]
  • Call (212) 854-9300, Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM
  • Visit the Columbia Residential office during regular business hours

Our team is available to help you understand your options and feel prepared for the transition.