Student Housing Glossary

Renting an apartment for the first time means encountering a lot of unfamiliar vocabulary in leases and conversations with landlords. This glossary defines the most important terms in plain language.

A – C

Application Fee — A non-refundable fee paid when submitting a rental application. Typically $30-75. Covers the cost of a background/credit check. Not the same as a security deposit.

Background Check — A review of your rental history, criminal record, and sometimes credit score conducted by a landlord before approving your application.

Co-Signer / Guarantor — A person (often a parent) who agrees to be legally responsible for paying your rent if you fail to do so. Many landlords require a co-signer for student tenants who lack rental history or income.

Cost of Attendance (COA) — The total estimated annual cost of attending a college, used by schools to calculate financial aid packages. Includes tuition, fees, housing, food, books, and personal expenses.

D – G

Deposit (Security Deposit) — A refundable amount paid at lease signing, held by the landlord to cover damages beyond normal wear and tear. State law governs how deposits must be handled and the timeline for return after move-out.

Eviction — The legal process by which a landlord removes a tenant from a property. Landlords must follow specific legal procedures; self-help evictions (changing locks) are illegal in all U.S. states.

First/Last Month's Rent — Many landlords require payment of both first and last month's rent at move-in, in addition to the security deposit. This can make move-in costs substantial — plan accordingly.

Flex Dollars / Dining Dollars — A pre-loaded dollar balance on a student ID card usable at campus dining retail locations. Often included with meal plans.

Grace Period — The number of days after rent is due that you can still pay without incurring a late fee. Not all leases include a grace period — check yours specifically.

H – L

Habitability — A legal standard requiring rental units to be safe, sanitary, and fit for human occupation. Includes working heat, plumbing, electricity, weatherproofing, and freedom from pests. Landlords are legally required to maintain habitability in all U.S. states.

Joint and Several Liability — A legal concept in joint leases meaning each tenant is individually responsible for the entire rent, not just their share. If one roommate doesn't pay, the landlord can pursue any or all tenants for the full amount.

Lease — A legally binding written contract between a tenant and landlord specifying the terms of occupancy: rent amount, term, utilities, policies, and responsibilities.

Learning Community — A residential program grouping students with shared academic interests in the same residence hall section, often with associated academic components.

M – R

Meal Plan — A pre-paid package for dining hall access, typically sold in tiers based on the number of weekly meals or dollar amount.

Month-to-Month Lease — A lease with no fixed end date that automatically renews each month. Offers flexibility but typically comes with higher rent.

Move-In Inspection Report — A written document recording the condition of a rental unit at move-in. Essential for protecting your security deposit.

Normal Wear and Tear — Minor deterioration of a rental unit resulting from ordinary use over time. Landlords cannot legally deduct normal wear and tear from a security deposit in most states.

Renter's Insurance — An insurance policy covering a tenant's personal belongings against theft, fire, and other hazards. Also includes personal liability coverage.

S – Z

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) — A federal food assistance program that some college students may qualify for. See USDA's SNAP for students guidance.

Subletting (Sublet) — Renting your apartment to another person while you remain the primary leaseholder. Usually requires landlord approval.

Tenant — The person renting a property under a lease agreement. As a tenant, you have legal rights even if they aren't explicitly listed in your lease.

Utilities — Services like electricity, gas, water, trash, and internet. Which utilities are landlord-provided vs. tenant-paid is specified in your lease and significantly affects your total monthly housing cost.

For more help understanding your lease, see our lease guide. For common questions about these concepts in practice, visit our FAQ.