Frequently Asked Questions


  • What is included in my technical fee payment?

    The technical fee allows you to use the computers in the on-campus computer labs, and have a username@cwu.edu e-mail account. It also allows you to use computers for classes, the computers in the library, equipment in the Educational Technology Center, and other technology centers on campus.

  • May I have a guest stay with me in my room?

    You may have a guest stay in your room with your roommate(s) approval. However, they may stay no longer than three days and two nights in any one week, anywhere in the building. For the safety of all the residents it is the student's responsibility to inform RAs of any overnight guests.

  • What is the difference between my free internet account and a campus-based email account?

    Your free Internet account lets you connect to the Internet from your residence hall room on your personal computer. A campus-based e-mail account lets you have your own personal CWU e-mail account that you can check from any computer lab on campus. This also allows you access to the Internet as well as some software programs like Microsoft Word on campus-based computers.

  • Where do I go if I get sick?

    We have a Student Health and Counseling Center located on campus for students to visit when they need to see a doctor. All students pay a $72 health fee each quarter. This allows for many of the services to be without charge and others to have a minimal fee attached. This fee is usually at a much lower rate than those charged by the clinics within the Ellensburg community. The center is a fully staffed medical clinic and there is a wide range of medical and counseling services available to our students.

  • What is Week of Welcome?

    Week of Welcome is the week prior to the beginning of classes for fall quarter. Sessions and functions are scheduled to assist the student in making an easier transition to college life. Activities begin over the weekend and last until the first day of class. Attendance at some sessions is required for University 101 course credit.

  • I wish to break my room and board contract. What do I need to do?

    First-year students are required to live on campus for a full academic year. Students who are officially withdrawing from CWU, married, not registered for classes, graduating, or attending a non-local CWU program are able to break their contact. All other situations will be evaluated on a case-by-case situation as students do sign an academic year living agreement. In order to break a contract, a student needs to come to the Housing Office (Button Hall) to fill out an application to cancel their housing and dining contract (pdf). All requests will be reviewed by a committee and will be considered on an individual basis. Liquidation fees for housing and dining will be assessed to your student account.

  • Will bedding and towels be supplied?

    You will need to supply your own bed linens and towels. The beds have extra long size mattresses (36" x 80").

  • Am I able to see my room in advance?

    We are not able to show the rooms in advance. The halls are utilized in the summer by the conference program, and, as soon as they are vacant, they are closed for cleaning and preparation. The Visitation Program conducts campus tours by appointment. Viewing of a room may occur if there are any unoccupied rooms designated for tour viewing at that point in time. Please check with Central Visitation Programs at 509-963-1262 for more information and details.

  • What small appliances am I allowed to bring?

    Each room in the residence halls is equipped with a microwave/fridge unit; students are allowed to bring a single-serve coffee brewing system, but no other appliances are allowed. Avoid overloading outlets with too many cords, and do not use extension cords with frayed wiring or poor connections. The wiring system is NOT intended for items that place a heavy load on the system. It is recommended that a surge protector be used for desktop computers, TVs, and stereo/sound systems.

  • What size are the mattresses in the residence hall rooms?

    All mattresses are 36" x 80", and require extra long linens.

  • Do residence halls and apartments have Wi-Fi?

    Yes. WiFi is available in all of our residence halls.

  • Is there smoking in the residence halls?

    All the residence halls, as well as the academic buildings, are smoke free.

  • Can I stay in my room for quarter breaks?

    Quarter breaks are winter break, in December, and spring break, which is one week in March. Students are required to leave the residence during the winter break. We do have Summer Housing for those attending summer sessions. Accommodations during quarter breaks are not included in the residence hall contract. You have 24 hours after your last final to vacate your room.

  • Can I bring my bike?

    You are welcome to bring your bike. The residence halls have bike racks and some residence halls also have enclosed bike storage. We do encourage that you register your bike with the Police Services.

  • Can I have a pet?

    Students may have an aquarium-bound fish in a tank no larger than 10 gallons. It is your responsibility to care for your fish.

  • What is a suite?

    A typical suite is approximately 360 sq. ft. There are two, three, and four bedroom suites which include the bedroom(s), common use area, restroom with shower, vanity with a sink, beds (standard single), desks, chairs, and closets. The suites are furnished.

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Housing & Residence Life

Button Hall