🏠 Bucknell University — Parent Guide

🏠 How housing selection works at Bucknell University

Bucknell University requires all full-time undergraduate students to live on campus for all four years unless they receive an approved exemption. More than 95% of students live in university housing, contributing to the close-knit residential character of campus life.

First-Year Placement: Incoming first-year students are assigned to one of the four first-year residence halls — Vedder, Swartz, McDonnell, or Smith — based on preferences submitted during the housing application process. Residential Life staff make placements to foster community and support the transition to college.

Upperclass Selection: Returning students participate in an annual housing selection process. Rising sophomores may apply for Roberts Hall (suite-style with private bathrooms), the Gateway Residence Center (apartment-style), or traditional corridor halls. Juniors, seniors, and some sophomores also have access to South Campus Apartments and the West Apartments. Selection is conducted by lottery based on academic class year.

Meal Plans: All students living in campus housing are required to have a meal plan. The primary dining facility is Bostwick Social House in the Elaine Langone Center (ELC), offering all-you-can-eat dining with 10+ stations. Flex dollars can be used at the Bison Café, Revolution Noodle, Bertrand Library Café, and 7th Street Café.