Housing at RISD is more structured than at many US universities — with mandatory on-campus living for first- and second-year students — and the transition to off-campus housing in junior and senior year involves navigating Providence’s rental market. This guide explains RISD’s housing system, the options at each year level, and what Korean students should know before arriving.
The On-Campus Requirement: First and Second Year
RISD requires all first-year and sophomore (second-year) students to live on campus in RISD residence halls. There are limited exceptions to this requirement (family living nearby, documented medical needs), but for most incoming Korean students, the first two years will be spent in RISD housing.
This policy is deliberate: RISD believes that the residential community of the first two years is an important part of the educational experience. Living alongside other RISD students — many in the same intense studio work culture — creates community and academic integration that commuter living does not.
First-Year Housing Options
First-year students are assigned to one of the following residence halls:
East Hall: Located in the heart of campus, East Hall houses primarily first-year students in a mix of single and double occupancy rooms. It is known for its central location and community atmosphere.
Homer Hall: Smaller residence hall for first-year students; some single occupancy rooms available.
Nickerson Hall: First-year housing with proximity to studio buildings.
North Hall: First-year housing; known for a community-oriented floor plan.
Estimated cost for first-year housing: Approximately $7,500–$9,500 per academic year (included in the Cost of Attendance).
Students are typically placed in housing through a process managed by Residence Life. Room selection preferences can be noted but are not guaranteed.
Sophomore Housing Options
Second-year (sophomore) students have access to:
Hill Houses: A cluster of residential buildings near campus; popular with sophomores for their slightly more independent layout.
South Hall: Sophomore housing with proximity to studio facilities.
15 West Alcove Suites: Suite-style housing with shared common areas; a step toward the more independent living of upperclassmen.
Estimated cost for sophomore housing: Approximately $8,000–$10,000 per academic year.
Junior and Senior Housing: Transition to Independence
Starting in their third year (junior year), RISD students may choose to live on campus or off campus. On-campus options for juniors and seniors include:
Colonial Apartments: Independent apartment-style living on campus; kitchen facilities included.
Dwight Apartments: Similar apartment-style option.
15 West Apartments: Located in a RISD building; more independent than traditional residence halls.
Estimated cost for junior/senior on-campus housing: Approximately $8,500–$10,500 per academic year.
Off-Campus Housing in Providence: The Junior/Senior Option
Many RISD juniors and seniors choose to live off campus in Providence’s private rental market. The primary neighborhoods where RISD students live off campus:
College Hill: The neighborhood surrounding RISD’s campus. Most walking-distance housing is here — historically homes converted to student apartments. Proximity to RISD studios and the RISD Museum is the primary advantage. Rent is typically higher than other Providence neighborhoods due to proximity.
Fox Point: An adjacent neighborhood with a mix of student and non-student residents; slightly more affordable than College Hill.
Downtown Providence: Some students live in downtown apartments; walkable to campus but in a more urban environment.
Estimated off-campus rent: $800–$1,500/month for a single room in a shared apartment; $1,200–$2,000/month for a studio; varies significantly based on unit quality and location. Providence is significantly less expensive than New York or Boston.
Practical Considerations for Korean Students
The on-campus requirement simplifies the first two years. Korean students arriving for their first year do not need to arrange their own housing — RISD’s Residence Life handles placement. This is a significant logistical advantage for international students who are navigating a new country and institution simultaneously.
Off-campus housing requires independent navigation. For the third and fourth years, students manage their own leases, utilities, and rental relationships. RISD’s Residence Life office provides resources for off-campus housing search, but the responsibility is the student’s.
Roommate preferences: RISD’s housing application allows students to note roommate preferences and indicate whether they prefer to live with other international students or seek diversity. Korean students who want to live with other Korean or international students can indicate this preference.
Dining: RISD operates dining facilities on campus. First- and second-year students in most residence halls are required to purchase a dining plan. Off-campus students can purchase optional dining plans. RISD’s dining facilities accommodate diverse dietary needs, including halal and vegetarian options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can first-year Korean students request to live with another Korean student? RISD’s housing application allows students to indicate a specific roommate request or general preferences. If two students mutually request each other, RISD will typically accommodate this. Otherwise, housing assignments are made by Residence Life.
Is there a waiting list for on-campus housing for upperclassmen? On-campus housing for juniors and seniors is not guaranteed — it depends on availability. Students who want to remain on campus in their third and fourth years should apply for upper-division housing early.
What should Korean students bring from Korea vs. purchase in Providence? Essential items to bring: personal bedding (pillow, comforter), art supplies specific to your practice, personal items. Major items (desk lamps, storage furniture, kitchen supplies for upperclassmen) are often more practical to purchase after arrival due to airline luggage limits.
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