Carolina Housing: Contract and Cancellations

Unit Policy

Title

Carolina Housing: Contract and Cancellations

Introduction

Purpose

Scope

Policy

The key dates, deadlines, and process information on this page is currently under review and will be updated shortly. Please check back here soon for the up-to-date application timeline and process.

The Housing Contract is a legally binding agreement between each student and Carolina Housing. It outlines the responsibilities and obligations of both parties. By signing, students agree to the terms in the contract and to abide by all related policies, including the Community Living Standards.

Students are expected to read and understand the Housing Contract in full. Carolina Housing may update terms with prior notice. No term or condition may be waived unless agreed to in writing by both parties. Verbal or informal promises by staff do not override the official contract.

Academic Year Cancellations

To cancel your Housing Contract, submit the Housing Cancellation Request form in the Housing Portal. Fees increase as your scheduled move-in date approaches. Refer to your contract for the cancellation timeline and fee structure.

Non-Disciplinary Contract Terminations

Housing Contracts are full academic year commitments for students entering in the fall, and single-semester commitments for those starting in spring. Students may not cancel their contract to move off-campus or into Greek housing.

However, the University may approve contract terminations in cases such as:

  • A student decides not to enroll or becomes ineligible before move-in.
  • Withdrawal from UNC-Chapel Hill before the contract ends.
  • Documented medical, financial, or psychological hardship.
  • Participation in a study abroad program or off-campus internship.

Approved terminations typically require the student to vacate within two days unless otherwise arranged. All requests must be formally submitted and receive written approval from the Director of Carolina Housing (or designee). Informal or verbal approvals are not valid.

Requests must be based on serious, documented circumstances that cannot be resolved through a room change or other on-campus accommodations.

If withdrawing from the University, students must complete both the academic withdrawal process and a separate housing cancellation request. Charges will continue to apply until official checkout is completed.

Cancellation Policy

1. Incoming First-Year/Exchange

This applies to first-year students enrolling at UNC-Chapel Hill for the first time.

How to Cancel
  • Email housing@unc.edu or fax a letter to 919-962-1006.
  • Include your full name, PID, and a statement requesting cancellation.
Cancellation Fees for New Students
Cancellation Date Fee
On or before July 31 $500 cancellation fee
After July 31 50% of total contract value + pro-rated room rent
Not enrolled at UNC-Chapel Hill No $500 cancellation fee

2. Returning Students

This applies to current UNC-Chapel Hill students who signed a contract for the upcoming academic year.

How to Cancel
  • Email housing@unc.edu or fax a letter to 919-962-1006.
  • Include your full name, PID, and a statement requesting cancellation.
  • Or submit the housing contract cancellation form on the MyHousing Portal under "online forms and resources"

The Housing Contract for the 2026-2027 year is currently being reviewed prior to publishing. For information about cancellation charges for current students living on campus for the 2025-2026 year, please see the Housing Contract (opens PDF in new window).

3. Incoming Transfer

This applies to transfer students enrolling at UNC-Chapel Hill for the first time.

How to Cancel
  • Email housing@unc.edu or fax a letter to 919-962-1006.
  • Include your full name, PID, and a statement requesting cancellation.
Cancellation Fees for New Students
Cancellation Date Fee
After the application is submitted but without a housing assignment No penalty
Days 1-14 after receiving an assignment $500 cancellation fee
Days 15-30 after receiving an assignment 50% of the Fall semester room rent
Days 31+ Applicable prorated rent and 50% of the remaining total contract value (both semesters)
On or after August 1 Subject to prorated rent and 50% of the remaining total contract value (both semesters)

4. Graduate/Family Housing

This applies to current UNC-Chapel Hill students who signed a contract for the upcoming academic year.

How to Cancel
  • Email baityhill@unc.edu or fax a letter to 919-962-1006.
  • Include your full name, PID, and a statement requesting cancellation.
  • Or submit the housing contract cancellation form on the MyHousing Portal under "online forms and resources"
 
Cancellation Fees for Returning Students
Cancellation Date Fee
On or before March 1 $500 cancellation penalty
March 1 – March 31 50% of the remaining contract value through December
On or after April 1st Applicable prorated rent and 50% of the total contract value
 
Cancellation Fees for New Students
Cancellation Date Fee
On or before April 15th, or until 72 hours after receiving an assignment No penalty
April 16 – June 30 Any applicable prorated rent and 50% of the remaining total contract value through December
On or after July 1st Any applicable prorated rent and 50% of the remaining total contract value

5. Special Circumstances

  • Study Abroad / Internship: No cancellation fee if documentation is provided.
  • Financial Aid: Cancellation fees still apply, even if housing charges were deferred. These fees are not typically covered by aid packages.

Related Requirements

External Regulations 

Unit Policies, Standards, and Procedures

Contact Information

Primary Contact

Email: housing@unc.edu

 

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