Residence waiting lists are generated when applicant demand exceeds our residence capacity. Students may view their residence waitlist number under the "My Details" section of the Housing Portal.
Fall 2024 Update: Demand for residence has exceeded our supply of available spaces and we will be using a Residence Wait List to make additional offers through the fall semester.
Learn more about ongoing residence priority.
The Residence Wait List is created in the following order:
1. Ontario Secondary School students who receive an offer of admission to the University after March 1, or who received an offer before March 1 but who apply to residence after April 15, 2025, in order of their randomly generated priority number.
2. On-time Transfer Students,who meet the application and deposit deadline, in order of their randomly generated priority number.
3. Upper year domestic returning students, who meet the application and deposit deadline, in order of their randomly generated priority number.
4. Late applicants (after the June deadline) in order of the date that both the application and deposit are received.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my chances of getting a residence offer from the waiting list?
It is challenging for us to answer the question accurately, as there are many variables, such as your wait list position and cancellations. Historically we will see natural attrition of 150-200 spaces throughout the summer resulting from cancellations, deferrals, etc. The wait list will also change periodically as students cancel their application after finding alternate housing.
How many students are on the residence waiting list?
The total number of applicants on the waiting list is fluid. The number of students on the residence wait list is updated regularly on the Housing Portal, under My Details.
What is the University doing to increase residence capacity?
We have expanded our residence capacity in our North, South, East and West residences. We have also added Gordon Hall to our residence options for the next few years to house more students.
How will I know if my wait list number changes?
Your wait list number can be found on the Housing Portal in real time under "My Details". As cancellations are processed, and new residence offers are made, your wait list number will change.
If I cancel my residence application is my deposit refundable?
You may cancel without penalty at any time while you are on the waitlist. Please notify the Residence Admissions office as soon as possible by sending an email via your @uoguelph.ca email account to housing@uoguelph.ca.
What if I have extenuating circumstances (such as medical needs) that require campus housing?
If you have special circumstances that require you to live in campus housing, you can initiate a Wait List Appeal by emailing appeals@uoguelph.ca. Your appeal should also include any supporting documentation (such as medical documents) in order to validate your appeal and expedite a decision.
If I don't get a residence offer by the start of the fall semester, what are my options?
In the event that we are not able to offer all applicants a space before classes begin in September, we encourage you think about alternate accommodation off-campus or temporary arrangements for the fall semester.
Our team at Student Experience has a wide variety of supports and connections for off-campus AND commuting students. We encourage you to check out their resources at your convenience.
Check out rental resource and local listings as well. Please note that listings continue to come available throughout the summer as the rental market is very dynamic.
Student housing rental housing listings and roommate requests are also available at The Cannon.
