Why is Georgia Tech processing housing applications using a lottery for some students?
In the past, the housing application process was based on a first-come, first-served model, which not only created stress, but also posed significant access challenges for many students. Recognizing the inherent inequities of this system, we are implementing changes to ensure the housing application process is more equitable and accessible for all students. This proactive change is a direct result of listening to and addressing the feedback from applicants.
Which classifications will participate in the lottery?
New Transfer, New Graduate Students, Returning Graduate Students, and Returning Upper-level Undergraduate students will participate in the lottery.
New First-years, Rising Second-Years, and Pell-Recipients will not participate in the lottery.
How will the housing lottery process work for applicants?
All current students who submit their application before the lottery deadline will be included in the lottery. Students who secure housing from the lottery will be notified and receive a self-assign time-ticket in February. Students who do not secure housing from the lottery will be assigned to the waitlist based on their lottery number. Anyone who applies for housing after the lottery deadline – November 18 – will be placed at the end of the waitlist in the order their contract was signed.
Why do I need a time ticket to apply for the lottery?
Students will receive a time-ticket to submit their housing application to ensure a smooth application process. This approach helps prevent a rush on My Housing and reduces the risk of the website crashing. It’s important to note that applying first does not guarantee housing. There is no need to be the first to apply as all students who apply by November 18 at 8:00 a.m. have the same chance of securing housing. Time tickets will be distributed based on your legal first name and spread out over the first few days of the application opening. This lottery application window will remain open until November 18 at 8:00 a.m. and applying as soon as your time ticket opens does not increase your chances of securing housing. This system is designed to provide everyone with an equal opportunity to apply without the stress of a first-come, first-served model.
What should I consider when applying through the housing lottery process?
With the housing lottery process, you’ll have more time to carefully consider whether you would like to live on-campus and explore your off-campus housing options, in the event you are not selected during the lottery.
Can I apply for housing after the lottery is announced?
Yes, students applying after the lottery is announced will still be able to submit housing applications. Applicants will be added to the end of waitlist in the order they apply. It’s advisable to apply during the designated application window to increase your chances of securing housing.
How will I be notified of my housing assignment or lottery results?
Housing lottery results will be communicated to you through official Georgia Tech communication channels, so be sure to regularly check your Georgia Tech email and My Housing for updates.
Is on-campus housing guaranteed?
Due to limited availability, we cannot guarantee on-campus housing to everyone who applies. However, new students, Pell recipients, and second-year students have the highest priority for on-campus housing. If you would like to consider off-campus options, the Georgia Tech Off-Campus Housing webpage is a good resource.
Will the lottery determine when I can select my room assignment?
No. The lottery is to determine if you will receive on-campus housing. Returning students will continue to receive self-assign time tickets for room selection based on the number of credit hours accrued at Georgia Tech as a matriculated college student. New students will receive a randomly assigned self-assign time-ticket.
Can I choose to stay in my current assignment for the next academic year?
If you are selected from the lottery and your room is available for your classification in the next academic year, you will be able to choose to "stay-same" and live in your current assignment. However, if you are currently a first-year undergraduate student living in a traditional hall or other first-year assigned space, you will not be eligible to stay in your current assignment the following year. Other programs or facilities related issues could impact your current assignment's availability. You will be notified if you are eligible to choose "stay-same" during the room selection process.