Move-In Day
Spring Move-In: January 24, 2026
We are so excited to see new and returning Terps! Get ready for move-in by reviewing the information below and on our Before Move-In page.
On this page:
Schedule
Our residence halls will re-open to invite new and returning residents for the spring semester during the times outlined below.
| Move-In Day | Move-In Time | Student Group |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, January 23, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. | Early Arrival Requests* |
| Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. | New-to-Housing Students |
| Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. | Returning Residents |
*Early Arrival Requests
Spring move-in early arrival requests are recommended for residents whose schedules are not compatible with our move-in weekend dates. Residents wishing to arrive on Friday, January 23 (starting at 12 p.m.) must submit an early arrival request. Please note that there is a limited staff presence and fanfare during the early arrival period.
Request Process
Students who wish to request an early arrival can do so via their Housing Portal starting January 5, at 9 a.m. Requests will be approved on a rolling basis if the room is ready for occupancy.
Please note:
- There is a $40/night early arrival fee.
- On Friday, January 23, only baseline services, including operational 24/7 service desks, staff duty response for emergencies, and housekeeping services, are offered.
- On-campus dining options are limited on Friday as well. Please refer to dining.umd.edu for hours of operation and details.
- Our main move-in days on Saturday and Sunday include more staff presence and spirit.
Unloading and Check-In Logistics
To help reduce wait times and keep traffic flowing, the unloading drop-off locations near residence halls are limited to 10 minutes. Unload your vehicle in 10 minutes or less and then relocate your vehicle to long-term parking (see details below). Honoring the unloading zone time limit helps out your fellow Terp families and residents by allowing them the chance to unload near their residence hall. Thanks for your cooperation!
We recommend bringing a dolly/moving cart and two move-in helpers to assist you – one to wait with your items curbside and another to move your vehicle from the unloading zone to long-term parking.
Unloading Zone/Parking
- Enter campus, make your way to your residence hall or service desk, and temporarily park your vehicle in the marked unloading zones for move-in.
- Unload your belongings curbside within 10 minutes and then move your vehicle to long-term parking.
Check-In & Room Key
- Check in at your service desk and receive your room key(s).
- Return curbside to help gather and bring belongings to your room.
- Unpack and set up your room!
Winter Welcome
Join our Winter Welcome program for a fun way to kick off the start of a new semester! Make connections, find community, and take part in campus traditions. From check-in to the day before classes start, enjoy a variety of special events both in your community and around campus. Be involved! So many Terps to meet and so much to learn!
FAQs
Check out our FAQs below for additional information and if you still have questions, feel free to reach out. We're here to help!
Email: reslife@umd.edu
Phone: 301-314-2100
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Room assignment, roommate name, contact information, and other key details will be available on the Housing Portal starting January 14, 2026.
New to housing students are invited to move into the residence halls on Saturday, January 24 beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Once the residence halls reopen, the Residence Hall Service Desks are open 24 hours each day to assist.
New student and returning dining plans start at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026. South Campus & Yahentamitsi dining halls will open at 4:00 p.m. 251 North reopens at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
New to housing students will have their hand bio-scan completed at the New Student and Family Welcome Reception scheduled for January 24 at 1:00-2:30 p.m. in the Stamp Student Union’s Atrium.
We can only accept items to the buildings after you have arrived back to campus or checked into your residence hall and received your key. Please do not ship your items prior to your arrival to campus.
Resources
What to Pack
Pack light and only bring the essential items you need, like bedding, bathroom supplies, and small room items.
Roommate Relationships Tips
Learn how to create a healthy roommate relationship with tips we call the "4 C's" of campus living.