For students attending a college or university, there are several different types of campus housing options. Dormitories, which can include single, double, or suite-style rooms, as well as gender-specific housing, are common forms of on-campus housing. For students with special interests, many universities offer specialty on-campus student housing. Some student housing is situated on the outskirts of the school grounds. These can be set up in the same way that dorm rooms are set up or in the same way that apartments are set up. Sorority and fraternity houses, known in Germany as studentenverbindungen and in Finland and Sweden as Nations, provide housing for members of specific clubs and can be found on or off campus.
Single dorms, in which each person has their own room, are uncommon in college housing. The rooms are usually reserved for older students or those who work in the dorm as a resident assistant. A bed, refrigerator, and microwave are usually included, as well as space for a desk.
One of the most common types of campus housing is double dorm rooms. Two students share a room in this scenario, which is similar to single dorms but has enough space for two beds and two desks. In some cases, three roommates share a double room with one bunk bed and a single bed. These rooms may have their own bathroom, but it’s more likely that all students on one floor of the dorm will share a bathroom with multiple shower stalls and toilets.
Suites are available on many campuses for students who prefer a more apartment-like experience in their on-campus housing. Two double dorms are usually connected by a common room. One bathroom is typically shared by four to six students. In the common area, there may be a small kitchenette or a full kitchen.
Gender-specific housing is a popular option for first-year college students and those who attend private schools; it is also common in countries where mixing sexes is frowned upon. The entire dorm building is usually reserved for males or females, and rules are frequently enforced that prohibit the opposite sex from entering after a certain period of time. Buildings on larger campuses are frequently divided into floors, with each level designated for a specific gender. This allows for privacy from students of various genders while still allowing for socialization.
Students frequently choose specialty housing. Many universities have dorms where smoking and drinking are prohibited, allowing students to get away from the partying. Dormitories may be reserved for students pursuing specific degrees in some cases. This is especially beneficial for music students, as students who live on campus are more understanding of late-night practicing.
Outside of the university, campus housing may be available. These structures can be used in the same way as a dormitory, but they usually have a more homey feel to them and often include a full kitchen. Families frequently use this type of campus housing. Off-campus living is popular among students with children or who are married.
Private clubs and organizations, such as fraternities and sororities, usually have a separate house for members. These can be on-campus or off-campus, and the group is usually responsible for paying for them. They are sometimes larger than dormitories, but this is not always the case.