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Howard University campus
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Howard University

Washington, Washington, D.C.

๐Ÿซ Private UniversityEst. 1867๐Ÿ”— www.howard.edu

Howard University's campus centers on The Yard, a National Historic Landmark District anchored by the iconic Founders Library, with Howard's traditionally single-gender first-year residence halls including Drew Hall for men and Tubman Quadrangle for women.

Enrollment

12,941

Total Students

Freshman Class

โ€”

Approx.

Move-In Dates

August 6 - August 9, 2026

Fall 2026

Acceptance Rate

41%

Most recent cycle

Move-In

Fall 2026 Move-In Dates

Arrive at your assigned move-in time - early arrivals cannot be accommodated, and arriving after your window means staff and volunteers may not be available. Parking for moving students/families ends at 6:00 p.m. daily during Move-In Weeks. Housing is guaranteed for first-year freshmen and continuing second-years with continuous enrollment; all are required to live in University-sponsored housing absent an approved exemption.

August 6 - August 9, 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

  • Drew Hall

    Traditional ยท Single-sex

    First-year only
  • Tubman Quadrangle

    Traditional ยท Single-sex

    First-year only
  • Howard Plaza Towers

    Suite-style ยท Coed

Housing Links

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

Orientation

Bison Week Orientation (required)

All new students are required to attend one orientation session.

August 10 - August 14, 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

$18,982

Estimated / Year

Figures shown are estimates for room and board only, and can vary by hall and meal plan. Check with Howard 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 Howard University.

Get the checklist

Share

Send this page to a roommate, a parent, or anyone else helping plan the move.

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