Off-Campus Living

Downtown Decatur

Students granted permission to live off campus are primarily seniors, but other students who have met the requirements may include:

  • Commuter students (traditional-aged students who live with relatives, as well as adult learners/nontraditional students)
  • Students over the age of 24
  • Married students or students with dependents
  • Students who demonstrate significant financial hardship (defined as having exhausted all loan eligibility, verified through the Office of Campus Life and Student Financial Services).
  • Students who are of senior standing (88 credits or more) and are beginning their seventh semester at Millikin

Deciding to live off-campus significantly impacts a student's academic and social journey. On-campus living provides support systems like meal plans and assistance from University staff and peers. Those considering off-campus living should be aware of challenges such as lease negotiation, budgeting, meal preparation, cleaning, and transportation without on-campus aid. Our University Residency Policy encourages senior students to embrace this transition towards autonomy. The Office of Campus Life remains supportive of students who maintain a connection with staff, even after moving off-campus.

Our University Residency Policy is designed for senior students to take this leap into autonomy. The Office of Campus Life will support students who maintain a relationship with staff, even when they move off-campus.

Students requesting to apply to live off-campus should email campuslife@millikin.edu for more information.

NOTE: All students are encouraged to obtain renter's insurance with a reputable service provider. Sometimes home or car insurance policies have an add-on option for only a small monthly fee to provide coverage and peace of mind.

A note about conduct off-campus: 
Off-campus students must adhere to Millikin University's Student Handbook and Code of Conduct. Any violations, regardless of location, will yield to disciplinary measures. The Office of Campus Life employs a "three strikes" policy for off-campus students. If 3 or more complaints are received regarding a student or their residence, off-campus approval will be revoked, and individuals will incur the off-campus living fee. Off-campus residents are urged to recognize their role as Decatur community members and to respect this privilege. Caution is advised against activities or events that could jeopardize safety. We expect all Millikin students to behave appropriately and with integrity.