Range FAQ

We've compiled the following information to help you answer frequently asked questions about living on The Range.

If you have any questions about leases, rent, or general housing information, please feel to call 434.924.3736, or email [email protected].

Who is eligible to live on the Range?

Living on the Range and in the Crackerbox rooms is reserved for graduate students enrolled full-time in a UVA degree-granting program.

Can medical residents apply for a Range room?

Medical residents are not eligible to live on the Range, because the University classifies medical residents as "Housestaff" employees rather than students.

Can graduate students who are beyond their first year apply?

Yes. Graduate students at any stage of their program may apply, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements.

I'm in a combined Bachelor's/Master's degree program. Can I apply for a Range room?

You must be enrolled as a graduate student before you can become a Range resident. In most cases, this means you must have a bachelor's degree (or the equivalent) by the time you take up residence. 

Are options available on The Range for students with families?

The Range consists of single rooms and is designed for individual graduate residents. Students with partners, children, or dependents should explore other University housing options that offer family accommodations.

May I request a roommate?

No. Rooms on The Range are single-occupancy and are intended for individual graduate residents.

How can I apply to live on The Range?

Applying to live on the Range is an option on the regular graduate housing application. Applications are reviewed by the Range Selections Committee.

How do I apply for on-Grounds housing?

Graduate students apply through the graduate housing application. Applications to live on the Range open April 1 and close April 8.

How competitive is the selection process?

In most years, The Range receives more applications than the number of available rooms. Prospective residents are encouraged to attend an Open House or to speak with a Range Ambassador to learn more about the community before applying.

Do I need to meet with a Range ambassador or attend an open house?

Meeting with a Range Ambassador or attending a Range Open House (online or in-person) is encouraged, but not required. 

What does the Selections Committee look for in an application?

The committee looks for applicants who would contribute to the Range community. Strong applications often describe interests outside of academics, involvement in shared activities, and ideas for events or traditions residents could bring to the community.

I submitted an application and have not heard anything yet. When do I find out where I'll live? 

Applications are reviewed by the Range Selections Committee after the application period closes. Applicants will be notified once placement decisions are finalized, typically by the end of April. If all spaces are filled, applicants may be placed on a waitlist. 

Please note that on-Grounds housing, including The Range, is not guaranteed for graduate students.

How is my room assigned?

Because the Range has a limited number of rooms, not every applicant can be offered a space. Applicants who are not selected may remain on the waitlist, or pursue other on-Grounds or off-Grounds housing options. 

Students who receive a Range assignment are invited to an online event, typically held in May, where community policies are reviewed and residents select their rooms. During this event, the Executive Committee randomly selects names to determine the order of room selection, with returning Rangers given priority. When your name is called, you may choose from any available room. If your preferred room has already been selected, you can choose from the available options. Rooms in the Crackerbox may also be selected. Residents who are unable to attend the online event will be assigned a room by the Executive Committee after the selection process concludes. 

What is the Crackerbox?

The Crackerbox is a standalone two-story building behind the East Range that contains two student rooms, one on each floor. Although separate from the main Range buildings, these rooms are part of the Range community and are included in the room selection process.

If I receive a Range assignment, am I guaranteed to have that housing for my entire time at the University?

No. Housing on The Range is offered for one academic year at a time. Residents who wish to remain must apply again during the next year's housing selection process.

How much does it cost to live on the Range?

All housing costs are available at the Housing Rates page, once approved by the UVA Board of Visitors. 

This may mean that housing rates for the current academic year are available but rates for the next academic year have not yet been approved.

What are the terms of the housing agreement?

Range residents typically sign a housing agreement for the full academic year, covering both the fall and spring semesters. Terms and Conditions for graduate housing, as well as an addendum for Lawn and Range residents, are available online.

How do I pay for my housing? 

Housing is billed on a per-semester basis to your SIS account.

When can I move in?

The Range move-in date is the Friday before undergraduate move-in weekend in August. The move-in date will be provided in your Range offer email.

When do I have to move out?

The Range move-out date is the Tuesday after Final Exercises in May. The move-out date will be provided in your Range offer email.

What furnishings are included in a Range room?

Each room is furnished with a lofted bed with ladder above a daybed with cover, a secretary desk with chair, a hutch containing a refrigerator with freezer and a microwave, a built-in closet and sink closet, and a rocking chair. There are blinds on the windows, and all rooms have air-conditioning and a working fireplace.

How large are Range rooms?

While not all the same size, Range rooms can feel larger than many traditional dormitory rooms. The high ceilings also make the rooms feel spacious. 

Are there kitchens or shared lounges? 

The Range does not include shared lounges, but dining halls, libraries, and other on-Grounds resources are located nearby.

In Summer 2026, the lower Pavilion VIII space will be converted into a Lawn Community Kitchen, which will also be available to residents of the Range.

How do bathrooms work?

Shared bathrooms are located close to the Range rooms, and are accessed using a University ID (physical card or mobile ID).

 Is internet provided?

Yes. All rooms have access to the University’s wireless network.

How is mail delivered? 

Some mail is delivered through a slot in the door. Packages are typically left on the doorstep outside each resident’s room.

Where is the laundry located?

 Laundry facilities are shared with The Lawn, and are a short 2-minute walk from the East Range.

Can I park near my room?

Residents who wish to keep a car on Grounds must purchase a University parking permit from UVA Parking and Transportation.

What about safety on the Range?

We strive for all residents to have a safe and healthy year. You can help! One of the most important things you can do on Grounds is be proactive about your personal safety. 

Please see the Safety page for some reminders to help ensure a safe community.

What about fire safety and prevention on the Range?

Each resident plays an important role in fire prevention and safety. The policies on the Fire Prevention page are designed to aid in fire prevention and protect the safety of all residents.

Items like extension cords, halogen lights, candles, curtains, space heaters, and certain kitchen appliances are prohibited in on-Grounds housing. See the prohibited items list for details.

In addition, all Range residents must attend mandatory fireplace safety training, and abide by all guidelines presented during the training.

Is privacy a problem living on the Range? What about all the tourists?

Privacy isn't a problem. People pass by regularly, but usually go unnoticed unless your door is open. Tourists are more prevalent on The Lawn than on the Range, although you may occasionally get asked well-meaning questions, or receive glances if your door is open.

How can I receive assistance from the University if I have a disability or medical condition? 

Students seeking housing accommodations should visit the Disability Housing Accommodations page, and follow the process outlined there.

What is the procedure for bringing a service animal to the University?

Please visit the Service and Assistance Animals page for the required documentation and procedures.

I still have questions. Who do I talk to?

Please feel free to contact [email protected] or [email protected].