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Brown University

Providence, Rhode Island

๐Ÿซ Private UniversityEst. 1764๐Ÿ”— www.brown.edu

Brown University's College Hill campus is anchored by University Hall, a National Historic Landmark completed in 1770 that briefly housed Revolutionary War troops, with all first-year students living in close-knit residence hall communities of 50-60 students, including Archibald-Bronson, Metcalf, and Andrews Halls.

Enrollment

11,005

Total Students

Freshman Class

1,818

Approx.

Move-In Dates

September 2 - September 2, 2026

Fall 2026

Acceptance Rate

5%

Most recent cycle

Move-In

Fall 2026 Move-In Dates

Check-in station and recommended parking lot locations are plotted on Brown's own Fall 2026 New Student Move-in map - check in with Residential Life staff first, then proceed to your drop-off location to unload. Students arriving after 4pm should go to the Charlesfield Street entrance of Grad Center E (42 Charlesfield Street) to the Key Office, though moving assistance isn't available that late. Items specifically restricted from residence halls under Rhode Island fire laws or Brown policy include air conditioners, space heaters, candles, extension cords, halogen lamps, pets, and weapons.

September 2 - September 2, 2026

Check your assignment in the housing portal for your specific date and time.

Move-in day tips

  • Arrive during your assigned window - early arrivals often just wait longer.
  • Bring a rolling cart or hand truck; loading-zone carts run out fast.
  • Parking near freshman halls fills up quickly - have a backup plan or drop-off spot.
  • Loading zones usually enforce a strict time limit (often 30 minutes) before you're expected to move your car to long-term parking.
  • Activate your student ID online before you arrive - many schools require it for building and elevator access from day one.
  • If you want your bed lofted or the frame height adjusted, check whether your school needs that request submitted online in advance - most won't do it on the spot.
  • Check your school's specific package-acceptance window before shipping anything ahead - most won't hold early deliveries outside a set date range.
  • Unpack essentials first: bedding, toiletries, and chargers, before anything else.

Housing & Dorms

  • Archibald-Bronson

    Traditional ยท Coed

    First-year only
  • Metcalf Hall

    Traditional ยท Coed

    First-year only
  • Andrews Hall

    Traditional ยท Coed

    First-year only

Housing Links

Links open Brown University's website - not always the exact page, but a real starting point.

Orientation

New Student Orientation (required)

All new students are required to attend one orientation session.

September 2 - September 8, 2026

Orientation tips

  • Register as early as your class allows - popular session dates fill up first.
  • Bring a parent/guardian if separate family programming is offered.
  • Check whether placement testing or advising sign-ups happen the same day.

Costs

Room & Board

$19,800

Estimated / Year

Figures shown are estimates for room and board only, and can vary by hall and meal plan. Check with Brown University's financial aid office for a cost breakdown specific to your situation.

Nearby Essentials

Checklists

Get the Ultimate College Move-In Checklist

A free, printable packing checklist covering everything from bedding to important documents - built for any freshman, including yours at Brown University.

Get the checklist

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