Navigating Sophomore Housing at Lehigh University

Choosing where to live during your sophomore year at Lehigh University is an important decision. Understanding the available housing options and the selection process is crucial for a smooth transition. This article provides a comprehensive overview of sophomore housing at Lehigh University, drawing upon information to guide you through the process.

Understanding the Housing Selection Process for Sophomores

The initial step for rising sophomores is to understand the housing selection process. To participate in Housing Selection for the 2026-2027 academic year, students must submit their contract, adhere to instructions and deadlines, and familiarize themselves with available options. The first and foremost thing in this process is determining which "process" to participate in from the following options: Second Year Selection, Upperclass (Jr/Sr) Lottery, Theme Housing Selection, or The Greek Housing Process.

Eligibility Criteria for Sophomore Housing

To be eligible for the Sophomore Housing Process, students must meet specific criteria:

Be a current registered undergraduate student for Spring 2026 or be officially readmitted for the Fall 2026 semester.
Be a rising second-year student.
Have not signed a Fraternity/Sorority bid card to become a member of a residential Greek organization.
Have not signed up to live in a Theme Community.
Have not accepted a Gryphon position.
Have not received an approved exemption to the university housing residency requirement.

It's important to note that even if you're applying for an internship or study abroad program for Fall 2026, you should still go through the Housing Process until your plans are finalized. If you have a local internship, you may request to reside in residence hall housing while you are working off-campus.

Consequences of Missing Deadlines

Any sophomore student who fails to sign the housing contract by the deadline can be added to the end of the Housing Process only after completing the contract. Any student who fails to complete the contract at all will be assigned housing as a part of the Placement List.

Read also: Lehigh Grads and Employment

Housing Options and Configurations

Lehigh University dorms are similar to most college housing options. Most on-campus residence halls include singles, doubles, and suites. Floor plans vary from residence hall to residence hall. The Lehigh University dorms dimensions depend on the residence hall. This information is usually contained in one of the dorm room tours of Lehigh University on CampusReel.

Suites and Apartments

Suites and apartments are common configurations for upperclassmen, but some may be available to sophomores. It's important to note a few things about these options:

Suites/Apartments are not gender-designated.
There are a limited number of 3-person suites/apartments. Housing Services does not encourage the selection of a 3-person suite/apartment in an undesired building with the hopes of a room change for the entire group.
There are an extremely limited number of 2-person suites and apartments.

Other Housing Considerations

Small houses: Small houses are gender-designated.
Meal Plans: Check the "Meal Plan Required" column to see if you will be required to have a meal plan.

Options for Upperclassmen

Active undergraduates students who will be juniors, seniors, or 5th year students during the 2026-2027 academic year are welcome to participate in the lottery by signing a housing contract. Housing is not guaranteed for Upperclass students.

Restrictions on Upperclassmen Housing Lottery Participation

If you have already accepted a Gryphon position, or joined a theme community wherein which you are expected to live in the theme house, you will not be able to join the lottery unless you change your student status. If you are a member of a Greek organization wherein you are expected to live in the chapter house if space exists, you will not be able to join in the lottery unless your house is at full occupancy. Please contact Housing Services for help in changing student status.

Upperclassmen Waitlist and Placement

Upperclass students who do not select during the Lottery Process and still wish to be considered for on-campus housing can apply for the Waitlist. If you are not able to select a 4-person suite/apartment, you will receive important information about the Placement List the day after the housing process. Housing Services encourages the selection of a 4-person suite/apartment with your group if one is available when your selection time opens.

Additional Factors to Consider

Beyond the basic housing options and selection process, several other factors can influence your sophomore housing experience.

Housing Accommodation Considerations
Terms of Lease and Contract Obligation
Rates

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