Residential Life F.A.Q.s

Am I required to live on campus?

Wayland Baptist University believes that living on campus plays an important role in student success, personal development, and community engagement. Because of this, WBU maintains a housing requirement for many students attending the Plainview campus.

Per the WBU Student Handbook, unmarried students enrolled in 7 or more credit hours are required to live in a residence hall and participate in a university meal plan unless they meet one of the approved exemption criteria below:

• 23 years of age or older
• Senior standing (90 or more completed credit hours)
• Living with relatives in the local area as a commuting student

This requirement applies to the Plainview campus only.

Are there exemptions to the housing requirement?

Yes. Students who qualify under an approved exemption category may request to live off campus.

The most common exemption is the Living with Parent/Relative Exemption, available to students residing within Floyd, Hale, Lamb, Lubbock, or Swisher counties.

Additional exemptions may apply based on university policy.

Students who do not meet an approved exemption may have housing charges applied to their student account. If you anticipate requesting an exemption, we strongly encourage you to apply as early as possible to avoid delays or unintended charges.

Start your housing or exemption request here:WBU Housing Application.

When do I need to complete my Off-Campus Request?

Off-campus requests must be submitted by the following deadlines:

• Fall term: August 1
• Spring term: January 1

Requests submitted after these dates may delay processing and could result in housing charges being applied to your account.

Is there additional paperwork required for an Off-Campus Request?

Yes. Depending on the type of exemption requested, supporting documentation may be required.

Examples include:

• Living with Parent/Relative: notarized proof of residency
• Married Students: marriage certificate
• Students with Legal Custody of a Minor Child: court documentation

Required documentation must be submitted by the university deadlines for approval.

I have earned an Associate’s Degree. Do I still have to live on campus?

Yes. The university housing requirement is not based on degrees earned. Students who meet the university housing requirement are still expected to live on campus unless they qualify for an approved exemption.

Students required to live on campus must complete the WBU Housing Application.

How early should I apply for housing?

Once you are officially admitted to Wayland Baptist University, we encourage you to apply for housing as early as possible. Housing assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis using the date your completed housing application is received.

Applying early gives you the best opportunity to secure your preferred residence hall and room type.

Start the process here: WBU Housing Application

Yes. During the housing application process, you may search for and request a roommate or select someone you already know, provided they have also completed a housing application.

To confirm a roommate pairing, both students must select each other and appear as “confirmed roommates” in the housing system. While we make every effort to honor roommate requests, assignments cannot be guaranteed due to space and availability.

All residents complete a Roommate Success Plan with a Residence Hall Staff member. Completed through eRezLife, this agreement helps establish expectations for a successful living environment and may be referenced by hall staff, the Housing Office, or the Dean of Students if concerns arise.

New and First-Time Residents

Hall and room assignments for new students are released beginning:

• Fall 2026: After July 1, 2026
• Spring 2027: After January 1, 2027

Assignment notifications will be sent to your WBU email account and the mailing address on file.

Students participating in approved early-arrival athletic programs will have participation confirmed with their coach prior to assignment.

Additional move-in details are available on the Move-In Day Koinonia page. 

Returning Residents

Returning students will receive residence hall reopening information throughout the year, aligned with university benchmark dates.

Move-in times for Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 are scheduled between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on the assigned move-in day.

If you need to arrive outside your assigned move-in time, please contact the Housing Office during business hours or notify your Residence Hall Supervisor (RHS) at least 48 hours in advance to make arrangements.

Yes. Students may request housing changes for the Fall term through their Residential Life/eRezLife portal until August 1.

After August 1, room changes are paused while assignments are finalized and move-in preparations are completed. Residents are expected to remain in their assigned space until the residence halls open.

Once the halls reopen, the Housing Office will work with students to process room or roommate change requests as space permits. Information about this process, including access to the online request form, will be sent to your WBU email account.

What if I want a private room?

Private rooms are assigned based on availability and cannot be guaranteed.

Residents are initially assigned roommates using information provided in the housing application. Students occupying a room without a roommate as of Census Day for a 16-week term may be assessed a private room fee.

Private room status does not automatically continue from one term to the next. As outlined in the Occupancy License Agreement, Wayland reserves the right to assign a roommate without prior notice if space demands require it.

When should I plan to move in?

Move-in dates vary by semester and student type (new, returning, or early-arrival groups). Residence hall opening dates and move-in times are listed in the Important Dates section below.

Students participating in approved early-arrival activities, including athletics, will receive additional instructions through their coach or university department.

Residents are encouraged to arrive during their assigned check-in window. If you need to arrive outside your scheduled move-in time, please contact the Housing Office during regular business hours or notify your Residence Hall Supervisor (RHS) at least 48 hours in advance to make arrangements.

Additional move-in details, including check-in expectations, are available on the Move-In Day Koinonia page.

• Please refer to the University Calendar for official dates.
•         Fall 2026- Dates are tentative until officially published by the Registrar.
  • Aug. 1 -Last day to file for a Housing Exemption. Last day to cancel a FALL reservation and receive a housing deposit refund**
  • Aug. 14 - 8 a.m. - Residence Halls open for Incoming Fall Residents; Check-In from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Aug. 16 - 11 a.m. - Dining Hall opens
  • Aug. 16 - 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.- Residence Halls open for Returning Fall Residents
  • Aug. 19 - Plainview Fall 16-week Term classes begin
    • First of four tuition and fees payments due for Fall 16-week term
    • Late Registration for Plainview Fall 16-week Term begins
    • Mandatory Dorm Meetings, 10:00 pm
  • Sep. 2 - Last day to change meal plan. Late registration ends 2:00 pm
  • Sep. 3 - Last day to drop without record/Census Day
  • Sep. 7 - Labor Day; No classes; Offices closed
  • Sep. 21 - Second of four tuition and fees payments due for Fall 16-week Term
  • Oct. 15-16 - Student Fall Break: No classes, Offices open
  • Oct. 26 - Registration for Spring 16-Week Term and May Micro-term begins
  • Nov. 24 - Dining Hall closes, 6:00 pm
    • Residence Halls close, 6:00 pm
  • Nov. 25 - Thanksgiving Holiday Begins; No classes, Offices open
  • Nov. 26-27 - Thanksgiving Holiday; No classes, Offices closed
  • Nov. 29 - Residence Halls open, 1:00 pm
  • Nov. 30 - Dining Hall reopens, 7:30 am
  • Dec. 1 -Last day to file for a Housing Exemption for Spring. Last day to cancel a SPRING  reservation and receive a housing deposit refund for returning students**
  • Dec. 2 - Mandatory Dorm Meeting
  • Dec. 7 - 10 - Final Exams
  • Dec. 11 - Dining Hall closes, 1:00 pm
  • Dec. 12 - Graduation, 2:00 pm
    • Residence Halls close, 5:00 pm
  • Dec. 21 - Jan. 1 - Christmas Holidays; Offices closed

• Spring 2027
  • Jan. 4 - Offices open
  • Jan. 10- Residence Halls open for new and returning students, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
  • Jan. 11-  Dining Hall opens, 7:30 am
  • Jan. 13 - Plainview Spring 16-week Term classes begin
    • First of four tuition and fees payments due for Spring 16-week Term
    • Mandatory Dorm Meetings, 10:00 pm
  • Jan. 18 - Martin Luther King holiday; No classes, Offices closed
  • Jan. 28 – Last day to change meal plan
  • Jan. 29 - Last day to drop or withdraw without record/Census Date
  • Mar. 12 - Dining Hall closes, 1:00 pm
    • Residence Halls close, 5:00 pm
  • Mar. 15-19 - Student Recess for Spring Break
  • Mar. 20 - Offices closed for Spring Break
  • Mar. 21 - Residence Halls open, 1:00 pm
  • Mar. 22 - Dining Hall opens, 7:30 am
    • Classes resume
  • Mar. 26- Good Friday; No classes, Offices closed
  • Mar. 29- Easter Monday; No classes; Offices closed
  • May 5 - Mandatory Dorm Meeting, 10:00 pm
  • May 7- WBU Fun Day- No Classes
  • May 10 - May 13 - Final Exams
  • May 14- Dining Hall closes, 1:00 pm
  • May 15- Graduation, 2:00 pm
    • Residence Halls close, 5:00 pm

Housing Cancellation Dates

Housing cancellations must be submitted through your MyWBU Housing Portal.

• FALL - August 1
• SPRING - Dec. 1
• MayMicro  - April 1
• SUMMER  - April 1

 Important: Students who cancel after the applicable deadline may not be eligible for a housing deposit refund under university policy.

Can I stay in the residence halls during holiday breaks?

Students may remain in the residence halls during certain university breaks for a fee of $140 per week. Charges cannot be prorated below the weekly rate.

There is no charge to remain in housing during:

• Thanksgiving Break
• Easter Break
• Spring Break

Students staying during Christmas Break or between semesters must pay the required fee in advance, as these periods are not included in the standard semester housing rate.

Students planning to stay during a break must sign up through the Housing Office and may be temporarily relocated to a designated residence hall.

For dining hall availability during breaks, please refer to the University Calendar

Is a meal plan required?

Yes. Students living on campus are required to participate in a university meal plan. The minimum required option is the 10 Meal Plan (160), though we recommend the All Access Plan for the greatest flexibility and value.

Meal plans are selected as part of the Housing Application, and pricing is established per 16-week term.

Please note that meal plans are intended to provide access and convenience throughout the semester. Meals not used by a student’s own choice are not refundable or credited.

For current pricing and plan options, view the FY- 26-27 Sodexo Meal plans.pdf

How do I select or change my meal plan?

Meal plans are selected during the housing application process.

Students may change their meal plan through the last class day of the second week of classes, provided they qualify for the selected option.

If a student does not qualify for a requested meal plan due to university meal plan requirements, a Meal Plan Exemption must be submitted and approved through the Disability Services Office (DSO).

For assistance, contact the DSO:

• Email: araujor@wbu.edu
• Phone: 806-291-1057
• More Information: Disability Services Office page here.

What are Meal Exchanges?

A meal exchange allows students to use an eligible meal at Pete’s Grill instead of eating in the cafeteria while the cafeteria is open.

Meal exchanges:

• Do not use Pete’s Points
• Are available only during cafeteria operating hours
• Cannot be used when the cafeteria is closed

Meal exchanges provide flexibility for students who prefer to eat in Pete’s Grill rather than the cafeteria during regular service times.

What are Pete’s Points?

Pete’s Points are prepaid, stored-value funds connected to your Wayland ID Card (student ID card).

Pete’s Points can be used for purchases at Pete’s Grill and provide a convenient, cashless way to buy meals and food items on campus.

What are the cafeteria hours during a 16-week semester?

The cafeteria operates during the following hours during a 16-week semester, unless otherwise noted on the University Calendar.

Monday–Thursday

• Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
• Lunch: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
• Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Friday

• Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
• Lunch: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
• Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday

• Brunch: 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
• Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Please refer to the University Calendar for holiday schedules, semester breaks, or adjusted dining hours.

How can I lower my housing and meal plan expenses?

Residence hall pricing varies to provide options that meet different student needs and budgets. Students are encouraged to select housing based on their financial situation when completing the housing application.

In some cases, students may realize after the assignment that their selected residence hall is no longer financially feasible. When space allows, the Housing Office may assist by exploring lower-cost housing options.

Students with questions about affordability are encouraged to contact the Housing Office as early as possible to discuss available options.

What happens if I decide not to attend Wayland?

Students who choose not to attend must submit a written cancellation request to the Housing Office.

Returning Students

To qualify for a full housing deposit refund, cancellation requests must be submitted by:

• Fall Semester: August 1
• Spring Semester: December 1
• Summer Session: April 1

First-Time Students

First-time students may qualify for a full refund if they cancel before the first day of classes.

After these deadlines, prorated refunds may be issued in accordance with University Refund Policy 3.2.4.

Important: Housing cancellations must be submitted through the MyWBU Housing Portal.

What is the $100 housing deposit?

All students living in a residence hall are required to have a $100 housing deposit on file with the Business Office before move-in.

This deposit is partially refundable after a student completes proper checkout procedures and fulfills housing obligations.

The deposit may be applied toward:

• Outstanding student account balances
• Room damages
• Unpaid fines or housing-related charges

Any charges exceeding the deposit amount will be applied to the student's account.

Please note that the housing deposit does not transfer to university-owned off-campus housing.

When do I receive my housing deposit back?

Students checking out of university housing for the final time may qualify for a partial housing deposit refund after completing required checkout procedures.

To remain eligible for a refund, residents must:

• Properly complete checkout procedures
• Leave their room clean and free of damage
• Avoid disciplinary or housing-related holds
• Meet cancellation deadlines, when applicable
• Fulfill eligibility requirements to move off campus

Eligible refunds are generally processed within 6–8 weeks after an approved cancellation or final checkout.

Students who move out during a semester and default on their housing contract will forfeit their housing deposit.

What type of security exists in the residence halls?

• We make every effort to create a safe living environment for all residents. Our residence halls are equipped with an electronic access system to provide monitored access to the halls. The access system is in place 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Students gain access to their residence hall by swiping a key fob on the reader located outside of each building.
• All traditional residence halls are equipped with surveillance cameras, and each is equipped with a camera monitoring system reviewed by trained staff daily.
• The University Police Department (UPD) and Plainview PD patrol the campus daily, conducting rounds in our residence halls regularly day and night.  Our staff works closely with UPD to maintain a secure living environment.
• Our best resource for security in the residence hall is our residents!  Our staff is trained to monitor and report various safety concerns. Emergency procedures are addressed each semester with the residents. Students are encouraged to lock their doors when they're away from their rooms, prevent tailgating into the hall (letting someone follow you into the entrance without swiping their WBU Card), and report any suspicious activity to residence hall staff and/or UPD.

Are there laundry facilities available in the residence halls, and how much does laundry cost?

• Laundry is provided in each building. Only residents of the hall are permitted to use the laundry machines. Laundry machines are for residents' personal use only. 
• Laundry is app-based, so you will not need quarters. Dorm Residents will pay a $50 fee for each 16-week term for a set number of loads. If you need more loads, you pay through the app. Student Family Housing residents pay $1.50 per wash/dry load.
• Instructions for downloading and using the app are sent out to each resident at the start of each 16-week term and posted in each laundry room.
• Residents will provide laundry detergent and softeners to clean their belongings.

Are there community kitchens in all residence halls?

• Community kitchens are available in Davis, Ferguson, and Owen Hall, with amenities varying by hall. These spaces are shared by all residents and are a collective responsibility.

• To ensure the kitchens remain clean and functional for everyone, residents are expected to maintain them. Failure to do so may result in consequences, including restricted access or additional cleaning fees.

Are dishes provided in community kitchens?

• Any available community kitchens have cookware available for student use. Dishes (i.e. plates, bowls, utensils) are not available in all locations, so it is recommended to bring your own.

Are my belongings covered by WBU insurance?

• No. We recommend you get renters' insurance to cover personal belongings. One provider that specializes in College Student Personal Property Insurance is NSSI.  Click the link to go to their website.

Who is in charge of the residence halls?

Each residence hall is staffed by a Residence Hall Supervisor (RHS) and a team of Resident Assistants (RAs).

Residence Hall Supervisors (RHS)

Residence Hall Supervisors are university employees who live in the building and oversee the daily operation of the residence hall. Responsibilities include:

• Supervising residence hall staff
• Supporting students and responding to concerns
• Managing hall operations
• Coordinating maintenance requests

Resident Assistants (RAs)

Resident Assistants are student leaders who live among residents and help foster a positive residential experience. They provide:

• Community programming and engagement opportunities
• Peer support and guidance
• Assistance connecting students to campus resources

Residence hall staff are available to support students and help maintain a safe and healthy living environment.

• What am I responsible for cleaning in my residence hall?

  Residents are responsible for regularly cleaning their assigned living space. Maintaining a clean environment supports personal wellness, roommate relationships, and overall community health.

  Most assigned spaces include responsibility for cleaning:

  • Bedroom/living area
  • Desk and dresser areas
  • Closet space
  • Bathroom (when assigned)

  We recommend establishing a weekly cleaning routine to help maintain health and safety while minimizing cleaning time.

  Residence Hall-Specific Information

  • Caprock Hall and Davis Hall: Residents share responsibility for cleaning common living areas.
  • Ferguson Hall: Community bathrooms are maintained by housekeeping staff.

  Additional cleaning tips and expectations are provided during move-in and hall meetings.

What should I do if I have a problem in my residence hall?

Students are encouraged to first contact their Resident Assistant (RA) or Residence Hall Supervisor (RHS). In most cases, hall staff can quickly address concerns or connect students with the appropriate campus resources.

If additional assistance is needed, students are always welcome to contact the Housing Office.

What happens if I get locked out of my residence hall or room?

Residence hall staff provide after-hours assistance for lockouts and emergencies.

Night Duty Coverage

• Monday–Thursday: 9:00 p.m. – 8:00 a.m.
• Weekends: Friday at 1:00 p.m. through Monday at 8:00 a.m.

Daytime desk hours vary by residence hall.

Students should note that fines for excessive lockouts are outlined in the Guide to Campus Housing.

• Students living on campus may obtain a campus mailbox (CMB) through the on-campus post office located on the first floor of the McClung University Center.

  To receive a mailbox key or ask questions, contact the post office at 806-291-3619.

  Package Pickup

  Packages delivered through UPS, FedEx, DHL, or other courier services are typically delivered to Central Supply and may be picked up during the following hours:

  Monday–Thursday
  10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

  Friday
  10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

  Packages are generally available within 24 hours of delivery. Students must present a valid ID and/or CMB key to claim a package.

  Mailing Address for Packages

  Use the following address format for all mailed packages:

  Student Name
  1900 W. 7th Street
  CMB XXXXX
  Plainview, TX 79072

  Packages sent without the proper address may be returned to the sender.

• Yes. Students may have a vehicle on campus; however, all vehicles parked on university property must have a valid parking permit.

  Parking permits are available through the University Police Department (UPD).

  For parking policies, registration details, and permit information, please visit the Campus Parking Webpage 

• A WBU Plainview Campus Parking Map is available for reference. 

Please review the What to Bring/ What Not to Bring List before move-in.

New for 2026!

Rent Your Dorm Essentials

Wayland Baptist University has partnered with College Products to make move-in easier than ever.

Students can conveniently rent:

• Microwave/Refrigerator Combination Units
• Bed Lofting Kits

Why Rent?

• Delivered directly to your residence hall room before move-in
• No hauling, transporting, or storing bulky items
• Service and support available throughout the rental period
• Convenient end-of-year pickup
• University-approved products designed for residence hall living

Reserve your items early to ensure availability before move-in.

Order Online: https://collegeproducts.com/universities/wayland-baptist-university/

• What type of security is in place in the residence halls?

  Wayland Baptist University makes every effort to provide a safe and secure living environment for all residents.

  Residence halls include multiple layers of security, including:

  • Electronic access systems with monitored entry points
  • 24/7 building access control using a key fob system
  • Security cameras in all traditional residence halls
  • Regular patrols by the University Police Department (UPD) and the Plainview Police Department

  Students access residence halls by swiping their assigned key fob at building entrances.

  Creating a safe residential environment is a shared responsibility. Students are encouraged to:

  • Lock their room doors when away
  • Avoid “tailgating” (allowing others to enter without swiping access credentials)
  • Report suspicious activity to residence hall staff or UPD

  Emergency procedures and safety expectations are reviewed with residents each semester.

Are laundry facilities available in the residence halls?

Yes. Laundry facilities are available in each residence hall and are reserved for resident use only.

Laundry services are app-based, meaning quarters are not required.

Traditional Residence Hall Residents

Residents are charged a $50 laundry fee per 16-week term, which includes a set number of loads. Additional loads may be purchased through the app if needed.

Student Family Housing Residents

Laundry is charged at $1.50 per wash/dry load.

Instructions for downloading and using the laundry app are provided at the beginning of each semester and are also posted in laundry rooms.

Students are responsible for providing their own:

• Laundry detergent
• Fabric softener (optional)

Are community kitchens available in residence halls?

Yes. Community kitchens are available in:

• Davis Hall
• Ferguson Hall
• Owen Hall

Available amenities vary by residence hall.

Community kitchens are shared spaces and are the collective responsibility of all residents. Students are expected to help maintain cleanliness so the spaces remain available and functional for everyone.

Repeated misuse or failure to maintain community standards may result in restricted access or additional cleaning charges.

Are dishes provided in community kitchens?

Cookware is available in residence hall kitchens for student use.

However, dishes such as plates, bowls, cups, and utensils may not be available in every location. Students are encouraged to bring their own personal dining items.

Are my belongings covered by university insurance?

No. Personal belongings are not covered by university insurance.

Students and families are strongly encouraged to purchase renters' insurance or a personal property protection plan for valuables and personal belongings.

One provider specializing in college student personal property insurance is NSSI.

What if I need a housing accommodation?

The Student Disability Services Office (DSO) assists students seeking disability-related housing accommodations.

Wayland Baptist University is committed to providing equal access to educational opportunities and residential living for students with documented disabilities.

Students requesting accommodations should begin the process as early as possible to allow time for review and placement considerations.

Please review the Disabilities Letter of Accommodation Procedures for more information.

For assistance, contact:

Ryiann Araujo
Disability Services Office Coordinator

Call Ryiann

Email Ryiann

Are pets allowed in university housing?

No. Pets are not permitted in university housing.

The only exception, outside of approved service or accommodation animals, is one fish in a bowl up to two gallons.

Any service animal or approved accommodation animal must be reviewed and approved through the Disability Services Office prior to arriving on campus.

For questions regarding accommodations, please contact the Disability Services Office (DSO).

What rules do I have to follow if I live on campus?

Living on campus is an important part of the Wayland Baptist University experience and comes with shared responsibilities. Residential students are expected to understand and follow university policies designed to support a safe, respectful, and healthy community.

Students living in university housing are responsible for following the expectations outlined in:

• The WBU Student Handbook
• The Guide to Campus Housing
• University policies and directives from university officials

These resources are reviewed and updated annually and may be revised during the academic year as needed.

Before moving into a residence hall, students must complete a Residence Hall Contract/Occupancy License Agreement. Completion of this agreement indicates understanding and acceptance of residential living expectations and university policies.

What happens if I do not follow residence hall policies?

Residence hall policies are intended to support community living, student well-being, and campus safety.

When concerns arise, Residence Hall Staff work with students to address issues through conversation, education, and accountability. Depending on the situation, repeated or significant violations may result in disciplinary action through the university conduct process.

Students are encouraged to ask questions if they are unsure about a policy or expectation.

Where can I find housing policies and residence hall expectations?

The most up-to-date residential living information can be found in the following resources:

• WBU Student Handbook
• Guide to Campus Housing
• Housing Forms & Resources

Students should review these materials before arriving on campus and refer to them throughout the academic year.

Still have questions?

The Housing Office is here to help. If you cannot find the answer to your question, please contact us for assistance with housing assignments, move-in, exemptions, meal plans, or residence hall living.

Housing Office Contact Information