Academic Learning Community

An Academic Learning Community is an educational program offered exclusively for University Courtyard residents. Students who select on their Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement that they are interested in this community will be assigned together on a designated floor of a Community Style Living Hall.

During the academic year, students assigned to the Academic Learning Community will be guaranteed registration into two courses each semester they will take with each other to promote an educationally focused living environment. Fall semester courses include: lower division, general education Communication and Political Science classes. Spring semester courses include: lower division, general education Biology with laboratory component and History classes.

Students participating in this program will have the opportunity to get to know faculty members outside of the classroom and will have instant access to academic peer advising, peer study groups, friendships and fun. Residence Llife Staff working with students assigned to the Academic Learning Community will also have the opportunity to meet directly with course professors to improve the on-campus living and learning experience of our residents.

Application Process For On-Campus Living

Question:    If I apply to the university, does that guarantee me housing?
Answer:        No.  The university application and admission process is separate from University Courtyard’s on-campus living application process. You must apply separately and housing is subject to availability at the time your completed on-campus living application packet is received. You are encouraged to submit the completed on-campus living application packet immediately upon receiving it or by April 1 for your best opportunity to receive on-campus living. See Waiting List section for additional information. Note:  Acceptance to housing is not acceptance to the university.

Question:    As a first-time freshman am I guaranteed housing?
Answer:        No.  However, first time freshmen who submit a completed on-campus living application packet by April 1 receive priority. (First come, first served for room and hall preference.  Based on date of receipt you will be guaranteed a bed space or placed on the waiting list). Our returning residents applying by returning resident deadlines receive first priority.

Question:    If I submit my completed on-campus living application packet by April 1, am I guaranteed housing?
Answer:        No.  The first 1,100 completed on-campus living application packets received by April 1 will be included in our first set of room assignments.  If more than 1,100 applications are received, the remaining applications will be placed on a waiting list.  See the Waiting List section for more information. 

Question:    How do I find out if I’ve been accepted to the university?
Answer:        Admittance to the university and applying for housing are two separate processes.  Visit my.csufresno.edu or contact the Admissions office at 559.278.2261 to check on your university admission status. It is important that you take the appropriate steps to insure you are admitted to the University by August (academic year) or December (Spring only) to avoid the possible loss of your University Courtyard bed assignment.

Question:    Can I live on campus for just one semester?
Answer         If you arrive in the Fall semester, the “Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement” period is for the entire academic year (Fall and Spring Semester).  You sign an academic year license agreement and are responsible for all of the Terms and Conditions of the agreement.

                     Exception:  If at the conclusion of the Fall semester, you 1) Withdraw, graduate, or transfer from Fresno State, 2) get married, 3) join the military and are required to report for duty or 4) are participating in an approved one semester program and your name is submitted to University Courtyard by the program’s coordinator prior to the beginning of the Fall semester, you may “Petition to Cancel” your license agreement in October.  If you meet one of these conditions and can provide the required documentation no later than November 1, your Petition for Cancellation will be approved and you will not be charged the Spring room and meal plan cost as long as you are not enrolled at Fresno State for the Spring Semester; however, a processing fee is required and administrative fees may be assessed.

Question:    Do you provide single rooms or family housing on campus?
Answer:        Single Rooms:  There are limited single rooms available for the academic year. 
                     Family or couple housing is not available on the Fresno State campus.  There are a number of apartments within a 1 to 5 mile radius of the Fresno State campus.  You can contact a local rental service for apartment information.

Question:    Why are there so few single rooms?
Answer:         One of the purposes of living on campus is to develop a network of students who support each other academically and to make new friends.  Living in a double occupancy room provides many opportunities to develop this network and to meet new people.  In addition, University Courtyard wants to provide on-campus living to as many Fresno State students as possible.  We have surveyed residents and asked for suggestions on how to increase the number of beds available.  The majority of residents responded to reduce the number of singles.  University Courtyard appreciates residents’ understanding as we strive to provide housing to as many Fresno State students as possible.

Question:    Why should I choose to live on-campus rather than live in an off-campus apartment?
Answer:        The convenience of living on-campus in a community of students who support your academic goals and provides you with an environment that encourages independence separates the on-campus living experience from an off-campus experience. When you move on-campus over 1,100 students will also be moving in and they will be looking to make friends.  When you leave home, you’ll be looking for a new support network – study partners, someone to go to lunch or the movies, and friends to share your new university life with.  The Residence Life Staff live on-campus and provide educational and social programs.  We also have a 24-hour Atrium Customer Service Desk and a Residence Life Staff member is on-call 24 hours a day/7 days a week.  We have many safety features that enhance your living experience.  Read through the on-campus living application packet and take the tour available at our web site – www.universitycourtyard.org.  If you would like to visit the campus, University Outreach Services provides tours of the campus or both the campus and housing – visit www.gotofresnostate.com or call 559.278.2048 for an appointment.  If you are interested in a tour of the residence halls only, sign-up on our web site or call 559.278.2345 for an appointment.

Question:    What does the phrase “a completed on-campus living application packet” mean?
Answer:        You must have completely filled out, signed and submitted the following items:

1. Application Personal Profile

2. Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement

3. Emergency Information and Health Insurance Card

4. Meningococcal Disease and Information form

5. $50 non-refundable application fee

6. $150 security deposit

7. Financial Aid Special Payment Plan Agreement (optional)

Question:    When will I find out my room assignment?
Answer:        You must have submitted a completed on-campus living application packet.  Bed assignments are subject to the following:

1. April 1 – Best opportunity to receive housing and a bed assignment in early June.  See Waiting List section for additional information.

2. After April 1 – You may be placed on the University Courtyard waiting list unless space is available.  See Waiting List section for additional information.

3. After June 30 – Bed assignments are made on a weekly basis, as space becomes available.  If you are assigned, a letter will be mailed or a call made if assignment is made in August.  It is your responsibility to contact University Courtyard between August 1-August 31 by visiting our web site at www.universitycourtyard.org or calling 559.278.2345 to check on your application status (complete or incomplete) and bed availability (guaranteed or waiting list). You may not receive additional information from University Courtyard prior to August 21 as we may not have been successful in trying to contact you by mail, phone, or e-mail.

Question:    I am a Smittcamp Honors Scholar and I want to know where to live and what my scholarship covers.
Answer:        You can choose whichever hall and room type you would like.  Room type assignment is subject to availability at the time your completed application is received.  However, the majority of first year Smittcamp Honors Scholars select Homan Hall as it is a quiet hall.  A double occupancy room in a community style hall is included in your scholarship.  However, you must pay the cost for the meal plan you select and you must pay the difference in the room costs if you are assigned to a more expensive room type. For room and meal plan cost, refer to the Rates and Options page on the website or the “Financial Information” insert in the paper application.

Question:     I am a Smittcamp Honors Scholar and I have questions about my on-campus living application or my bill.  Who should I contact?
Answer:        For application questions, call 559.278.2345 Monday-Friday and press 1 at the main menu.  For accounting questions call 559.278.2396, Monday-Friday, business hours 8:00 am-5:00 pm.

Question:     I am an athlete and I want to know where to live and what my scholarship covers.
Answer:        You can choose whichever hall and room type you would like. Room type assignment is subject to availability at the time your completed application is received.  Typically a full athletic scholarship covers a double occupancy room in a community style hall (Baker, Graves, Homan) and a 21 meal plan or a triple occupancy room in the suite style halls.  You must pay the difference in room costs if you are assigned to a more expensive room type.
Question:    When am I required to submit my health insurance information?
Answer:        Students living on-campus are required to provide health insurance information no later than two weeks after moving in.  See on-campus living application packet for health insurance requirements.

General Information


Question     Is there internet service in the room?
Answer:         A student may bring their own computer for their room and subscribe to the internet service provided through campus or other internet provider.  The Central Valley Internet Project (CVIP), the on campus provider, offers two low cost internet options for students living on campus; broadband and dial-up.  CVIP offers a high-speed, always on service up to 50 times faster than normal dial-up, with 5 e-mail accounts, 25 MB web space, free technical support, quick, easy, and free installation, and no set-up.  A dial-up service is also offered.  For information call 559.278.1111, Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm or visit their web site at www.cvip.net.  Note:  Internet and e-mail access is available in room only if a resident brings their own computer and modem, and arranges and pays for their own Internet service.  Connection is made through the phone line shared by roommates if in a double or triple room.  The high speed broadband connection described above requires a specific modem available through CVIP.  University Courtyard does not provide technical support for student computers.

COMPUTER LAB: Your on-campus living package includes free use of the lab located in the Atrium and staffed by Computer Lab Assistants, 24 hours/7 days a week during the academic year.  Assistants are available to answer questions and are students who live or lived on-campus.

Features:
16 computers with
:     Pentium 4 Processor
:     Speed:  3.0 Ghz
:     17" flat screen monitors
:     Windows XP Pro Operating System
:     Software:  Office 2003 (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Access), Alcohol 101+, Above Acrobat Reader 7.0, Win Zip, Macromedia Flash and Shockwaive, CD Burning Software, Real Player
:     DVD Drive (viewing only)- programs cannot be loaded onto the hard drive
:     CD-ROM (24x) with burner for programs (cannot be loaded onto the hard drive). CD burning capability (academic work)
Example:  CD-ROM study aid that comes with academic books. Worked saved to the hard drive is erased at the end of the day.
:     3.5 Floppy Drive for saving student work.  Worked saved to the hard drive is erased
at the end of the day.
:     Sound Max Integrated Digital Audio Sound Card for use with provided headphones (no speakers).
:     Video Intel 945G Express Chip
:     Disabled Resident Work Station
Other features:
:     LaserJet 4000 Pay-for-Print. Printer produces a high quality, finished paper and is connected to all 16 computers. Add value machine located in the Atrium.
:     Free high speed Internet (Internet Explorer 6.0) and e-mail account

Question:    If I bring my car where do I park?
Answer:        Lot G is the closest Student/Visitor Parking Lot to University Courtyard. It is the only parking lot that allows overnight parking. You must purchase a University Student/Visitor Parking permit -- $68 per semester (subject to change).  Parking permit information is available on Fresno State’s web site at www.csufresno.edu.

Question:    What are some of the safety features of University Courtyard?
Answer:        Safety is a top priority at University Courtyard and includes:

Question:    Are pets allowed?
Answer:        No.  Exception:  Aquatic Fish in a five gallon or less aquarium.

Question: How can i get telephone service?
Answer: Telephone hook-up and service is available at an additional fee, shared by roommates, and residents supply their own telephone. Information about the telephone service, which includes voicemail, will be available in your check - in packet.

Question:    Do I have to move out during Thanksgiving, Winter, or Spring Recess?
Answer:        No.  You can stay during Thanksgiving, Winter, or Spring Recess; however, since you were not charged for this time period, there is no refund.  Meals may not be included for Thanksgiving, Winter, or Spring Recess.  The university will observe the recesses as follows:

Thanksgiving Break   November 21-23                       Classes resume Monday, November 26
Winter Recess           December 21 (3 p.m.)-Jan 14       Classes resume Tuesday, January 15
Spring Recess            March 17 – 21                                  Classes resume Monday, March 24

Question;    Can I keep my room during the summer if I am enrolled in Summer Session? 
Answer:        No.  On-campus living is available on the first floor of a specific residence suite hall for all Summer Session residents.  Your 2008-2009 Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement ends on May 18, 2008, 3 pm.  You may apply and pay separately for Summer Session and it is subject to space availability.  If space is available you would move to the Summer Session space.  Summer applications are available on March 1 for the following summer.

Question:    Can I leave my belongings in my room over the summer and return to the same room next year? 
Answer:        No.  During the Summer, University Courtyard provides hotel-type overnight accommodations for a variety of educational and athletic groups.  The groups use all rooms except Summer Session resident space.  Storage of belongings at University Courtyard is not available.

Check-In Information

Question:    When can I move in?
Answer:        If you have been guaranteed a bed or assigned a permanent or temporary on or off-campus bed space, you are required to move in on Thursday, August 21, 9 am thru Friday, August 22, 11 pm.  Classes begin on Monday, August 25.  If you need to move in on an earlier or later date, you must contact Atrium Customer Service Desk by August 8, at 559.278.2345.  Early arrival is available only for permanent bed assignments.  Late arrival is available for both permanent and temporary bed assignments. (See early or late arrival for more information)

Question:    Can I make arrangements to check-in before August 21, 9 am (early arrival)?
Answer:        You must

1. be participating in a Fresno State program that requires you to arrive prior to August 21.

2. be assigned to a permanent bed space. 

3. contact Atrium Customer Service Desk by August 8 by visiting our web site at www.universitycourtyard.org and clicking on “Contact Us – Customer Service” or call 559.278.2345 and press option #1 to make sure your permanent room will be available. 

4. pay a daily room rate between your early arrival date and the night of August 21. 

5. Meals are not included in the daily room rate; however, meals are available for purchase at the University Courtyard Dining Hall or USU Food Court.

6. May be placed into a temporary room if their permanent room is not ready.

Question:    Do I need to make arrangements to check-in after August 22, 11 pm (late arrival)?
Answer:        YES. If you have been assigned to a permanent or temporary bed space, you must contact Atrium Customer Service Desk by August 8 by visiting our web site at www.universitycourtyard.org and clicking on “Contact Us – Customer Service” or calling 559.278.2345 to make arrangements to check-in after August 22, 11 pm. 

Question:    Where should I go to check-in?
Answer:        In July, visit www.universitycourtyard.org and check your mail for communication from University Courtyard.  Read the mailed communication as it will include information about where and how to check-in if you have a permanent or temporary on or off-campus bed assignment, what there is to do when you arrive, and other helpful information.  If you do not receive information, call University Courtyard so we can mail a copy.  You will check-in at University Courtyard, 5152 N. Barton Ave, Fresno, CA  93740-8013.  However, the exact location within University Courtyard is based on the date you check-in.

Question:    What happens during check-in?
Answer:        When you arrive, you will go to the designated check-in location.  A University Courtyard staff member will provide you with the necessary check-in documents and review the check-in process with you.  After you complete the check-in process, there will be activities and workshops for you to attend and participate in see youe room assignment brochure (mailed) for specific check in instructions. 

Question:    Should I arrive for check-in even if I haven’t received a bed assignment?

Money Issues

Question:    How much money do I send with my housing application?
Answer:        Every applicant must send a $50 non-refundable application fee and $150 for your security deposit.  If you have been assigned a bed, the first payment of your room and board fees is required by July 5 or within 5 days of receipt of your invoice.  See the “Financial Information” insert in the application packet or the “Rates and Options” page on the website for payment amounts based on room type assigned, meal plan selected, and payment plan selected.

Question:    If I apply for Financial Aid, a Smittcamp Honors College Scholarship or an Athletic Scholarship that will be awarded through the Fresno State Financial Aid Office, how is my housing paid?
Answer:        You are eligible to submit University Courtyard’s Financial Aid Special Payment Plan Agreement and your first payment will be delayed until September 5.  It is important that you --

Question:    Is financial aid, Smittcamp or Athletic Scholarship going to cover the $50 non-refundable application fee and the $150 security deposit and my room and board payments?
Answer:        No.  You must pay the $50 non-refundable application fee and the $150 security deposit when you submit your on-campus living application packet.  Your financial aid award does not cover the application fee and security deposit.  You are responsible for all of your assigned room and board fees whether or not Financial Aid covers them. Your application will be incomplete without the full $200 ($50 non-refundable application fee and $150 security deposit) payment. The $200 may be charged to a Visa or Mastercard by completing the required authorization on the “Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement.” If you apply for financial aid, be sure to submit the completed Financial Aid Special Payment Plan Agreement with your application or by August 1 if you are interested in delaying your first payment. We continue accepting Financial Aid Special Payment Plan Agreements after August 1; however, you are encouraged to submit the agreement as early as possible to facilitate direct withdrawal.

Question:    If I have been awarded Financial Aid through the Fresno State Financial Aid office, does Financial Aid pay housing directly?
Answer:        Financial aid only automatically applies money directly for your university registration fees.  You have an opportunity to have the Fresno State Financial Aid Office make a direct payment from your award to University Courtyard.  Check the Financial Aid Special Payment Plan WITH Automatic Deduction on the “Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement” inserts in the on-campus living application packet.  If you select this option, be sure to complete and submit the Financial Aid Special Payment Agreement that is also included in the on-campus living application packet.  
If you choose not to sign up for direct payment, your financial aid check will be mailed to you at the permanent address on file with the university.  It is your responsibility to pay University Courtyard from the check by mailing or bringing in your payment by the due date(s) listed in your payment plan. 
You are responsible for all of your room and board fees whether or not your Financial Aid award covers the room and board fees and you choose a) the direct payment or b) to make the payment after the checks are disbursed. 

Question:    How do I find out how much Financial Aid I was awarded?
Answer:        The Financial Aid Office is separate from the housing office.  Check on-line by going to the university’s web site:  my.csufresno.edu, login, go to Student portfolio, and select Financial Aid.  You can call or visit the Financial Aid Office directly in the Joyal Administration Building or at 559.278.2182, Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm (Summer Hours are Monday-Friday, 7 am-3:30 pm) Pacific Time.

Question:    How much does it cost to live on-campus?
Answer:        The prices vary depending upon the room type and meal plan selected.  For example: the academic year cost August 21, 2008-May 15, 2009 (Subject to change) for a triple room in a residence suite with a 14 meal plan is $6,350; double occupancy room in a community style hall with a 14 meal plan is $6,816 and a large single occupancy room in the residence suites with a 21 meal plan for $8,986. The triple and large single occupancy rooms are limited. See 2008-2009 Financial Information insert in the application packet or on the “Rates and Options” page on the website for detailed price list.

Question:    Why do I have to make my first payment on July 5 or within 5 days of receiving my invoice when I’m not going to move-in until August 21?
Answer:        The amount you are charged is a set figure based on the occupancy dates (August 21, 2007 - May 15, 2009), room type assigned, and the meal plan selected. While you pay your room and board fee in advance, you are only paying for the license agreement time period.  Several payment plan options are available – one, two, monthly, or financial aid special payment plan.  The two, monthly and financial aid special payment plan allows you to make payments rather than paying the full amount on July 5.  All payment plans except the financial aid special payment plan require the first payment to be made on July 5 or within 5 days of receipt of the invoice, whichever is later.

Question:    If I submit my first payment am I guaranteed a bed?
Answer:        No, bed assignments are based on the date and time the completed application is received and are subject to availability.  Do not make any payments until you have received a guaranteed bed letter. See Waiting List section for additional information.

Question:    What is a designated payor?
Answer:        A designated payor guarantees payment of your room and board.  A parent, guardian, or designated payor can complete the designated payor information on Section II of the Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement AND the person must sign the license agreement in the designated payor box.  The monthly statements for room and board are mailed directly to the designated payor instead of to the person living on-campus so that payments can be made timely.
You do not need a designated payor.  If this section is not complete, you are held solely responsible for room and board charges.

Question:    Why are parents or guardians or designated payors who pay for their child (or children’s) housing, not permitted to obtain information about their account or general concerns about housing?
Answer:        If the student has the parent/guardian/designated payor complete and sign the designated payor section, we can discuss their financial housing account information only.  And, if the student checks yes on the “Release Information to parents/guardians/designated payors” section of the Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement, we can discuss all of the student’s information that pertains to housing.  Otherwise, according to the Family and Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, we cannot legally provide student information to anyone other than the student.

Question:    Will I receive an invoice or monthly bill from University Courtyard?
Answer:        You will receive an initial invoice 2-3 weeks after you have been assigned a bed space. The invoice will show the amount due for the full academic year for your room, meals, and service fee. Although we invoice your account for the full year you are not expected to pay the amount indicated on the invoice in full; please follow your payment schedule. You will not receive a bill each month; however you will receive a friendly reminder notice in your mailbox which includes the amount due for that month.

Parent Loan

Question:    If my parents applied for a parent loan to pay for my university fees and housing, are the loans automatically disbursed to University Courtyard?
Answer:        In order for parent loans to be disbursed to housing, you must have indicated on the "Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement" section III that the parent loan(s) awarded thru Fresno State's Financial Aid Office should be automatically applied to the room and board fee.  In addition, your parent must have signed the license agreement in the designated box.

Question:    What if my parents applied for a parent loan that is NOT disbursed thru Fresno State's Financial Aid Office.
Answer:        Only a Plus Loan-1 disbursed thru Fresno State's Financial Aid Department can be automatically disbursed to University Courtyard.  If you have a different type of parent loan, you will need to make a separate payment to housing after you receive the loan.

Financial Aid Special Payment Plans For On-Campus Living

Question:    My financial aid check is more than the first payment amount due on September 5th.  If I apply it all to my account, how will it affect future payments?
Answer:        The financial aid check amount will be credited to your housing account and you will receive a refund only if the amount exceeds your total housing and meal plan fee. Otherwise, the check amount is applied to your room and board account.  You would subtract the amount paid from the payment plan and make your next payment as soon as additional money is due. You would then continue making payments as outlined in your payment schedule. See example below:

August 21, 2008-May 15, 2009
14 Meal Plan

Financial Aid Special Payment Plan (Subject to change)
Example provided for planning purposes only -
refer to your payment schedule
Financial Aid not automatically deducted; therefore, all payment amounts and due dates must be met as outlined below.
        Community Style            1st payment                           $1,345.28 (9/5)
        Double Room                  + 3 monthly payments of       650.00
                                               5th Payment                          1,403.72 (1/15)
                                               + 3 monthly payments of       650.00
                                               Total                                       6,816.00

Question:    If the payment plan I request on the Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement is the Financial Aid Special Payment Plan without auto deduction do I still need to submit the Financial Aid Special Payment Plan Agreement?
Answer:        Yes.  Only applicants who submit a Financial Aid Special Payment Plan Agreement are eligible for the Financial Aid Special Payment Plan. 

Question:    I submitted the application for University Courtyard’s Financial Aid Special Payment Plan.  However, I have not received my check from Financial Aid and my first payment is now due.  What should I do?
Answer:        It is your responsibility to immediately contact University Courtyard Accounting Office, weekdays,
8 am-5 pm, to set-up an appointment to discuss the financial aid disbursement delay.  At the conclusion of the appointment, you will be provided with the steps you must complete in order to remain in good standing with University Courtyard.

Question:    Can I change my payment plan?
Answer:        Payment plans can only be changed until June 1, 2008. Any change in payment plan after this date will result in an administrative fee. If you choose the Financial Aid Special Payment Plan, it is your responsibility to submit the Financial Aid Special Payment Plan Agreement.

Meal plan Information

Question:    When is the first meal served?
Answer:        The meal plan begins on Friday, August 22, Breakfast (11 a.m.). University Courtyard and University Courtyard Dining will host a welcome BBQ on Thursday, August 21, for all residents and their families at no additional cost. NO meals are served or included for Thanksgiving, Winter or Spring Recess.

Question:    What is the difference between a 10 flex, 14, 14 flex, and 21 meal plan?
Answer:         10 flex meal plan --- You choose an average of 10 meals per week from the offered meals and you    have $230 in scrip ($115.00 each semester) to spend at Dining Services’ on-campus          restaurants/Food Court.

                     14 meal plan --- You choose an average of 14 meals per week from the meals offered in the University Courtyard Dining Hall. 
14 flex meal plan – You choose an average of 14 meals per week from the offered meals and you have $230 in scrip ($115.00 each semester) to spend at Dining Services operated on-campus restaurants/Food Court.
21 meal plan --- 21 meals are the greatest number of meals served during any one week at the University Courtyard Dining Hall. 

Question:    Do I have to have a meal plan?
Answer:        Yes, all undergraduate residents must select a meal plan.

Question:    If I select a 14 meal plan on my application and decide I would like a 21 meal plan, can I make a change?
Answer:        Yes.  All residents have an opportunity to change their meal plan from September 8-12, 4 p.m. by submitting a Meal Plan Change Application.  Information about meal plan changes will be included in the “Student Handbook and Weekly Planner that you receive at check-in”.

Question:    If I change my meal plan, when will I get a refund or when will my account change?
Answer:        You may APPLY for a meal plan change between September 8-12, 2008, 4 p.m. 

1. Applications submitted by the deadline will be reviewed and applicants notified whether or not their application was approved or denied. 

2. If your application is approved, your account will be adjusted on Wednesday, September 17, 2008.  Any increase will be reflected on your next invoice.  If there is a credit, it will be applied to your next housing payment or if your account is paid in full, it will be refunded to you/designated payor three to six weeks after September 17.

3. For additional information about changing your meal plan, refer to the University Courtyard Student Handbook and Weekly Planner.

Question:    What if my Fresno State Key Card is lost/stolen or doesn’t work for my meals?
Answer:        The Key Card is valuable and you should treat it as a credit card. If you lose or damage it you must replace the Key Card by doing the following:
Contact University Courtyard Dining in order to pick up meal passes, and then go to the key card office to get your new card. It is very important that you notify the key card office that you are on a meal plan when you go to replace the card. University Courtyard Dining and the Key Card office are open Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm, except on Holidays.

Question:    How does my scrip/key card dollars work with my flex plan?
Answer:        If you participate in a flex plan, you will receive $230 ($115.00 each semester) in scrip/key card dollars for the academic year.  Each semester you will receive some money in scrip money and some on your key card (University I. D.). 
The scrip money can be used at all dining services operations.  Each scrip dollar is equivalent to one dollar and is used in the same way.

                     The Key Card (University I.D.) acts as a debit card, which carries a dollar value.  When dining at the Food Court (ChicFil-A, Panda Express, Subway, Snack Bar), you will be able to use your Key Card to make purchases.  The amount of your transaction will then be deducted from the card (Declining Balance).  This system is only available in the Food Court, but will eventually be available throughout all of our operations.

Cancellation

Question:    Can I get my money refunded if I decide not to live on-campus?
Answer:        On-campus living processing fee and cancellation policy overview is listed below. Refer to the University Courtyard website for full cancellation policy or the published policy in the on - campus living application packet. 

Guaranteed bed or assigned to a temporary or permanent on or off campus bed space and:
                     ACCEPTED TO THE UNIVERSITY

Note: If you are guaranteed a bed or assigned to a temporary or permanent on or off campus bed space after July 20, the $25 per day administrative fee starts the day following the guarantee or assignment. It is your responsibility to contact University Courtyard between August 1-29 to check the status of your application.

NOT ACCEPTED TO THE UNIVERSITY
a.   Submit a written cancellation via certified mail postmarked by August 20.  You will be charged a $50 processing fee and the $50 non-refundable application fee submitted with your application. $100 of the $150 security deposit and any payments made towards your room and board will be refunded 3-6 weeks after your cancellation is received. Phone, e-mail, or in person cancellations are not accepted.

ON WAITING LIST AND NOT GUARANTEED, ASSIGNED OR OFFERED A BED

Question:    Should I cancel my housing if I haven’t been accepted to the university yet?
Answer:        If you are not accepted to the University, you have until August 20 to cancel your Student Housing and Meal Plan License Agreement in writing via certified mail. A $50 nonrefundable application fee and $50 processing fee applies.  If you haven’t received admittance to the university by August 1, you are strongly encouraged to contact the Admissions Office to check on your status.  (If you are on the waiting list, also see waiting list cancellation information).

Question:    Should I cancel my housing if I am still on the waiting list?
Answer:        In early July University Courtyard plans to contact all students with guaranteed beds to confirm they will be moving on campus for 2008-2009.  Students indicating they have changed their mind will be encouraged to immediately cancel their license agreement.  We will continue to receive cancellations throughout the summer and will assign waiting list applicants in waiting list number order from July 1 thru August 20 if a bed becomes available.  Between August 21-August 29, 5 pm we will offer on or off campus temporary or permanent beds as they become available and in waiting list number order.  If you have not been guaranteed, assigned or offered a bed by August 29, 5 pm, you will be released from your license agreement and all monies except the $50 nonrefundable application fee will be refunded.  Refer to waiting list notification letter for additional information.

Room Information

Question:    How big are the rooms?
Answer:        On the “Rates and Options” page, the approximate dimensions of the rooms are shown on the drawings.  In a community style hall, most double or large single occupancy rooms are15 feet, 10 inches by 11 feet, 2 inches.  In a residence suite most double occupancy, triple occupancy or large singles in a 2 or 3 bedroom are 14 feet by 12 feet 2 inches.  All small singles or singles in a 1, 2 or 3 bedroom are approximately 8 feet, 10 inches by 12 feet 2 inches.  Photographs of the rooms are included in the tour section of the website.

Question:    What is included in my room?
Answer:        Double occupancy rooms are furnished with 2 sets of loft style furniture (extra long twin beds, large desks, book carrels with task light, 3 drawer dressers, 2 drawer file cabinets, 2 position chairs), closets, wastebaskets, overhead light, carpet, windows with blinds.  Residents must provide their own pillow, blankets, sheets (extra long or flat twin), and towels.  Residence suite living rooms have a couch, chair, coffee table, and bookcase.  There is a microfridge (compact microwave/freezer/refrigerator combination) in the suite living room to share with suitemates or one in every community style room to share with roommate.  Single rooms have one set of furniture. You may bring additional furniture for suite living rooms (such as: chairs, couches).
Information provided in your Room Assignment packet will explain the check-in process and what to bring.

                     If you are interested in purchasing linen, information will be sent with your room assignment letter or you can go to our website www.universitycourtyard.org and click on “Searching for Linen”. 

Question: What should i bring?
Answer:

Question: Are there items i cant bring?
Answer:

What not to bring:

Amplified musical instruments
Alcohol or alcohol containers (exception: 21 and older)
Candles and incense
Cooking appliances (hot plates, rice cookers, toasters, popcorn popper)
contact paper
Controlled substances - illegal use or possession
Dartboards
Double-sided tape
Gambling and Lotteries
Halogen lamps
Hookahs
Immersion heaters
Lofts
microwaves (other than microfridge provide)
Motorized vechicles or gasoline-powered euipment to store or work on inside your room
Pets other than aquatic fish (max five gallon tank)
posters/hangins-no more than 50% of wall can be covered
waterbeds
Weapons including but not limited to firearms, fireworks, ammunition, knives, paintball guns, pellet guns, airsoft guns
Weights and weightlifting
euipment

Question     How big are the beds/mattresses?
Answer:         The mattresses are 80” long by 36” wide and take extra long twin sheets or flat twin sheets.

Question:    Can I bring a telephone/answering machine, TV, stereo, DVD player, refrigerator, vacuum cleaner, coffee maker?
Answer:        Yes you can.  The refrigerator must be 2.5 cubic feet or less.  We do supply a microfridge (compact microwave/freezer/refrigerator combination) to share with roommates or suitemates.  Vacuum cleaners are available for check-out at the hall desk.  A television in the Atrium is available for all residents to use and there is a television in the first floor lobby of each of the community style halls. Free cable hook-up is available in each room; including the suite living rooms. Telephone hook-up and service is available at an additional fee, shared by roommates, and residents supply their own telephone.  Information about the telephone service, which includes voicemail, will be available in your check-in packet.

Question:    What is the difference between community style and residence suites?
Answer:        Community style halls are built in a way that promotes community development.  Each floor has two gender-designated wings.  On each wing is a hallway with rooms located across from each other and a common, gender designated bathroom. This is the best way to get to meet people, make friends, and find study partners.  There is always something to do either with other residents or by participating in social and educational programs held in these halls.

                     Residence Suites are one, two or three bedrooms.  However, there are just a few one-bedroom suites.  The roommates and suitemates share a living room and bathroom. Since there is not a common hallway and each suite has a separate entrance, residents have to make a greater effort to meet people, make friends, and get involved.  Social and educational activities are held and residents go to a central location to participate.

Question     What is the difference between a double and triple occupancy room?
Answer:         All triple occupancy rooms are located in the suites and are the same size as the double occupancy room – 14 feet by 12 feet 2 inches (approximate).  The differences are –
3 beds (extra long twin -- 80” x 36” wide)                   2 -- closets

2 – 3-drawer dressers                                               1 – wardrobe closet with drawers in                                                                                             the hallway

3 – standard computer desks with drawers                2 – telephone lines available (double                                                                                           occupancy

3 – 2-position chairs                                                     rooms have 1 phone line available

Note:  File cabinet is incorporated into the standard desk with drawers.  Book carrel with task light is not provided.

Question:    How can I get a suite?
Answer:        After returning residents, who submit their completed packet by March 29 select their rooms on April 18 (Subject to change), empty beds in residence suites are assigned to new applicants or returning resident applicants based on the following: 
Cedar and Sequoia are available to freshmen in the date and time order their completed on-campus living application packet is received.  Exception:  One bedroom, small single. (Available to returning residents only.)

Aspen, Birch, Ponderosa and Sycamore are available to transfer (56+ units) and graduate students in the date and time order their completed application packet is received.
All community style halls are open to returning residents first and then to ALL applicants based on the date and time order their completed on-campus living application is submitted.

All bed assignments are subject to availability at the time the completed application is received.  See Waiting List section for additional information.

Waiting List Information

Question:    How will I know if I am on the waiting list?
Answer:        All applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their completed on-campus living application packet by April 1 for their best opportunity to receive on-campus housing.
If your on-campus living application packet is received by

1. April 1 –You will be notified by mail of your application status (complete or incomplete).  If bed space is available, you will be included in the first set of room assignments.  If more applications are received than available bed space, you will be notified you are on the waiting list.

2. Between April 2-June 30: You will be notified by mail of your application status (complete or incomplete) and bed availability (waiting list or not eligible for waiting list until application packet is completed).

3. After June 30:  You will be contacted by mail, phone or e-mail and notified of your application status (complete or incomplete) and bed availability (waiting list or not eligible for waiting list until application packet is completed). If you are not contacted by University Courtyard prior to August 1, it is your responsibility to call University Courtyard at 559.278.2345 between August 1-September 1 to check on your status.

Question:    If I am on the waiting list will I be assigned a bed?
Answer:        Historically we receive cancellations throughout the summer. 

1. We expect to be able to assign additional applicants to on or off campus temporary or permanent bed space by August 29, 5 pm based on waiting list number (subject to bed availability).  Between August 21-August 29, 5 pm you will be offered an on or off campus temporary or permanent bed space.

2. You will be contacted by mail, phone or e-mail and notified of your application status (complete or incomplete) and bed availability (waiting list or not eligible for the waiting list until application packet is completed).

3. If you are not contacted by University Courtyard prior to August 1, it is your responsibility to contact University Courtyard by visiting our web site at www.universitycourtyard.org and clicking on “Contact Us – Customer Service” or calling 559.278.2345 between August 1-Augustt 31 to check on your status.

4. If you are on the waiting list, you should not make plans to move in until you are notified that a temporary or permanent bed space is available. We may not be able to assign everyone on the waiting list to a temporary or permanent bed space.

5. If you are on the waiting list and are offered (between August 21-29) a temporary or permanent bed space, you have 24 hours to accept or decline the bed space.

Question:    If I submit my first payment will you move me from the waiting list to a bed space?
Answer:        No.  We assign applicants to beds based on the date and time the completed on-campus living application packet is received. Do not make any housing payments until you have been assigned to a temporary or permanent bed space. See the question, “What does the phrase --- completed on-campus living application packet --- mean?

Question:    How do I find out what my waiting list number is?
Answer:        You will be contacted by mail, phone or e-mail and notified of your application status (complete or incomplete) and bed availability (waiting list or not eligible for the waiting list until application packet is completed).  If you are on the waiting list, your waiting list number will be provided.  
                     If you are notified that you are on the waiting list and you have not received an assignment by August 1, you should contact the Atrium Customer Service Desk between August 1-August 29 by visiting our web site at www.universitycourtyard.org and clicking on “Contact Us – Customer Service” or calling 559.278.2345 to check on your status.

Question:    If I am on the waiting list, should I cancel my on-campus living application by July 20 in order to avoid penalties?
Answer:        No.  Waiting list applicants are provided with a cancellation extension, until a bed is guaranteed or offered.  Information about the extension will be included in the waiting list letter.

Roommate Information

Question:    Can I live with someone of the opposite gender?
Answer:        You cannot share the same bedroom with someone of the opposite gender.  Men live with men, and women live with women.  In Baker, Graves and Homan community style halls, a wing is designated as male or female; however, men and women live within the same building.  Bathrooms are gender designated on each wing. Suites are also gender-designated.

Question:    What do I do if I don’t get along with my roommate or I want to change rooms?
Answer:         The residence life staff provides roommate mediation meetings or one on one meetings with roommates.  They can help you learn how to resolve your differences.  If you still want to move or you just want to change rooms, you can apply to change rooms by completing the Room Change Application process during a specific time period.

Question:    Can I choose my own roommate or can I talk with the person before I move in?
Answer:        Roommate Choice:  You can request a specific roommate(s) if by April 1 you submit your completed on-campus living application packets together, write each other’s name and Social Security Number on the “Personal Profile” and both roommates list the same hall, room type preference (subject to availability) and roommate compatibility options.  The request must be mutual.  If an empty room is available, the computerized room assignment software will then place roommate(s) together, but does not assign suitemates together. 

                     Advance Roommate Communication:  If both you and your roommate check that it is okay to “release phone number” to prospective roommates on the Application Personal Profile, and a roommate has been assigned to you, then the roommate phone number will be included on your room assignment letter. You can also log onto My University Courtyard and send you roommate a message, once a room assignment is made.

Suitemate Choice: Suitemate selection is not available.  The computerized room assignment software does not match suitemates.