Explore the SAU freshman housing options
When choosing housing, consider your needs, budget, and other factors: location on campus, amenities, and community atmosphere. Our housing is designed to be conducive to learning and personal growth, a place to become part of a community.
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Available freshman housing options
Bechtel Hall
Bechtel Hall is designed to build connections and friendships among residents. Four-person suites can build lasting relationships; communal lounges and study areas offer collaborative learning and socializing spaces.
Features
- Double bedroom dimensions: 11' W x 25' x 8' H
- Closet dimensions: 32” W x 22” deep, with one foot of storage space above the closet
- Two beds (with loft and stacking options), dressers, desks with chairs, and closets
- Shared bathroom and shower in each suite
- Carpeted floors
- Air-conditioning
- ADA-accessible rooms
- Wireless and ethernet hookups
- Four study lounges and printing station
- Laundry facilities on each floor
Download the SAU Bechtel Hall Layout
Cosgrove Hall
This six-story building is a campus hub with the Cosgrove Cafeteria located on the first floor. Freshmen living in the building's four-person suites also have convenient access to a lounge, 24-hour computer lab, and multimedia lab on the lower level.
Features
- Double bedroom dimensions: 9' W x 18' x 9’ 3” H
- Two beds (with loft and stacking options), dressers, desks with chairs, and wardrobes
- Vanity with sink in each bedroom
- Shared bathroom and shower in each suite
- Carpeted floors
- Air-conditioning
- Wireless and ethernet hookups
- Laundry facilities on second and fourth floors
Download the SAU Cosgrove Hall Layout
North Hall
High-achieving freshmen can apply for North Hall, St. Ambrose’s newest residence hall. Freshman can live in traditional four-person suites, while upperclassmen are housed in apartments with single rooms, a living area, and a shared kitchen and bathroom(s).
Features
- Single bedroom dimensions: 9’ W x 11’'
- Double bedroom dimensions: 11' W x 16' with 6’ x 13’ entryway
- Single rooms include bed (with loft option), dresser, desk, and closet
- Double rooms include beds (with loft and stacking options), dressers, desks, and closets
- Bathroom(s) and shower in each apartment and suite
- Living area in each apartment includes three chairs and coffee table
- Kitchen in each apartment includes dining table and three chairs, microwave, oven, stove and full-size refrigerator
- Carpeted floors
- Air-conditioning
- ADA-accessible rooms
- Wireless and ethernet hookups
- Community laundry facilities
Download the SAU North Hall Layouts
Cost comparison guide to freshman housing
Choosing the right freshman residence is crucial. At SAU, we offer a diverse range of living options to cater to various preferences, needs, and budgets. This guide can help you make an informed decision. Contact us if you have questions.*
| Residence Hall | Cost per semester | Cost per year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bechtel Hall | $3,965 | $7,930 | Double bedroom with shared bathroom in 4-person suite |
| Cosgrove Hall | $3,455 | $6,910 | Double bedroom with shared bathroom in 4-person suite |
| North Hall | $3,965 | $7,930 | Application-only, double bedroom with shared bathroom |
*Cost may vary based on if student preferences, like wanting a single dorm or when students require housing, like during the summer or breaks
How to apply for first-year housing and dorms
Securing your freshman housing at St. Ambrose University is a seamless, user-friendly process. Once enrolled at SAU, use the student portal to locate and access the housing application, then fill it out and submit.
Apply to SAU
Access the Housing Application
Fill out the student housing application in the student portal. Our platform makes it easy for you to choose your ideal residence.
Choose Your Housing Preferences
The housing application prompts for essential details to match you with suitable housing options. Provide necessary documentation for any accommodations.
Wait for Your Housing Assignment
The housing team diligently reviews applications and strives to match preferences and availability. Once assigned, you'll receive information about move-in dates.
Prep for the first year of your college journey
Prepare for your arrival into dorm life: Keeping an open mind, embrace diversity, engage with other residents, and welcome new experiences. Read the move-in procedures provided to ease your transition into campus life at SAU.
Steps to take to prepare for college
- Create a list of essential items to pack
- Connect with your future roommate
- Review dorm policies and guidelines
- Explore campus
- Create a packing checklist
- Understand move-in procedures
Have more questions on freshman dorms? Start here.
What should I pack to bring to the dorms?
At St. Ambrose, we recommend bringing essential items to make your dorm room feel like home. Consider items such as:
- Personal identification and any necessary paperwork provided by the university
- Bedding (sheets, blankets, pillows)
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Study materials (laptop, notebooks, pens)
- Storage solutions (bins, organizers)
- Room decorations to personalize your space
- Clothing suitable for various weather conditions
- First aid and basic medication
- Cleaning supplies for personal use
- Any necessary electronics (charger, power strip)
Keep in mind that move-in day can be busy, so pack essentials you'll need immediately. Your dorm room is your haven. Make it comfortable and conducive to your study and relaxation needs while respecting space limitations.
What are the dining options available on campus?
St. Ambrose University offers diverse and convenient dining options to cater to students' varied tastes and preferences. Our main dining facility, Cosgrove Cafeteria, provides a wide array of nutritious and delicious meals, including customizable options to accommodate dietary needs.
Additionally, we have several on-campus cafes and eateries offering grab-and-go meals, snacks, and beverages for students on the move. We're committed to providing a vibrant dining experience that fosters community and promotes healthy eating habits among our students.
View meal plans
Does SAU offer summer housing?
At St. Ambrose University, limited summer housing options are available for students enrolled in specific summer programs, internships, or with extenuating circ*mstances.
Eligibility for summer housing and the available options are contingent upon program enrollment and university policies. To inquire about summer housing availability, eligibility criteria, and application procedures, please contact Residence Life.
Amenities for summer housing
- FREE: parking (monitored by 24/7 security); utilities; fast WiFI
- Access to the SAU library, Wellness and Recreation Center, sand volleyball court (right outside Hagen and Tiedemann), game room, Starbucks in the Beehive
- Secure living: Card-only access and security at front desks
- Receive mail and packages securely on campus
- Weekly housekeeping for bathrooms
- Summer Housing Assistants in each hall are there to help you, conduct nightly security rounds, and plan great events
Ask us your questions
How are roommates assigned? Can I choose mine?
At St. Ambrose, we have a roommate-matching process designed to create a positive living environment. Incoming students have the option to request a specific roommate if both parties mutually agree. If you don't have a preference, our housing team carefully considers your preferences indicated in the housing application, aiming to match compatible roommates based on lifestyle habits, interests, and study preferences. We prioritize fostering a supportive community and ensuring a harmonious living experience for all our residents.
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What safety measures exist in the dorms?
At St. Ambrose University, the safety and well-being of our students are top priorities. Our dormitories are equipped with various safety measures to ensure a secure living environment. These measures include:
- Secure keycard access to dorm buildings for residents only
- Well-lit common areas and hallways for enhanced visibility
- On-site resident advisors (RAs) trained to assist and support students
- Regular patrols and surveillance by campus security to maintain a safe atmosphere
- Fire safety protocols and emergency response systems in place
We continually assess and update our safety procedures to create a comfortable and secure living space for all residents.
Learn more about campus safety
Do freshmen have to live on campus?
At St. Ambrose University, full-time freshmen students are required to live on campus until they have completed two years of post-high school studies, either at St. Ambrose or another accredited institution of higher education such as a community college or university.
Exceptions to this requirement include students who:
- Reside with a parent or legal guardian within a 30-mile radius of campus
- Commenced college studies more than one year after graduating from high school, potentially qualifying for a residency requirement waiver
Our goal is to create a vibrant on-campus community while offering reasonable exceptions for certain student circ*mstances. For detailed information or inquiries about exceptions, please contact us.
Contact us for more information
Find your hive at SAU
SAU is not just a school, it's a community. Join the Fighting Bees, find your hive, and become who you're meant to be.
- Call: 563-333-6000
- Request information
- Apply now
