Campus Life will be moving to the following Residency Requirement, applicable to all incoming students, beginning Academic Year 2024-2025.

Pacific Lutheran University requires that all full-time students live in university housing unless the student meets one of the following criteria:

  • Live at home with a parent in Pierce County or in the following approved zip codes. Please see the attached document for approved zip codes located outside of Pierce County
  • Is at least 20 years of age on or before September 1 to be exempt for the academic year, or on or before February 1 to be exempt for the spring semester.
  • Enrolled in and completed at least 4 full semesters at Pacific Lutheran University; includes full semester study away programs, excludes J-term and Summer.
  • Living with a spouse or child [copy of marriage or birth certificate required].

A student enrolled at the University and living off-campus that does not meet the criteria listed above and without approval from the Department of Residential Life is in violation of this policy, and will be held responsible for room and meal charges for that period and will be required to move on-campus for the remainder of their time.

Campus Life Philosophy

At Pacific Lutheran University, we describe ourselves as a residential university with a strong commitment to the residential experience. We have this University Policy in place because we care deeply about student success. Both national research studies and PLU data clearly indicate that students who live on campus are more likely to succeed at higher levels than students who do not live on campus in three important areas: Grade Point Average, Retention and Graduation.

Additionally, residential students feel a greater sense of Connection, Belonging and Satisfaction with their educational experience. A successful residential life program includes a variety of experiences and a diversity of students, for students often learn best from one another. This is one reason why we work so hard to attract and retain first-year students, sophomores, juniors and seniors. Residents can learn from one another and grow together in community. This policy is in place to benefit the individual and our community of learners.

A decision to attend PLU involves a commitment to adhere to all University Policies, including the Residency Requirement.