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Move-In

Move-In is an exciting time for new students!  Living on campus builds a strong sense of community that is woven into the fabric of Vanderbilt. Here are key details you need to have a successful move-in.

Commons Move-In

Overview

Housing assignments and move-in instructions will be emailed to first-year and transfer students in early August. Your assignment information includes your residence hall name and room number, private mailbox address, the name, email address, and phone number of your roommate(s), and complete move-in instructions, including your assigned move-in time. First-year domestic students will also receive additional move-in documents in the mail.

While first-year students and transfer students have different move-in dates, all other information on this page applies to all students moving onto campus.


Before You Arrive

Before you leave home, make sure you have the following with you:

  • Tracking numbers for packages and total number of packages
  • Move-in information
  • Directions to campus (staging area/key pickup area)
  • Install the GET mobile app on your phone and set up your mobile Commodore Card in your phone’s digital wallet
  • Car hangtag (first-year domestic students only)
  • VUceptor letter containing contact information and group number (first-year students only)

OR

  • Transfer Student Leader contact information and transfer group number (transfer students only)

Move-In Dates

International First-Year Student Move-In: Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Transfer Student Move-In: Friday, August 21, 2026

First-Year Student Move-In: Saturday, August 22, 2026

*Students will be provided with a specific move-in time with their room assignment information.
(First-year students between 7 a.m. and noon & Transfer students between 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.)


2023 move in

What to Bring

What to Bring

What Not to Bring

Bedding: Twin size linens, pillows, pillowcases, and blanketsHot plates, toaster ovens, portable grills, popcorn poppers, or anything with exposed heating elements
Toiletries, shower caddy, towels, shower shoes, personal itemsElectric heaters or air conditioners
Prescriptions (minimum 30-day supply, bottles, and medical records)Electric personal transportation vehicles (scooters, hoverboards, etc.)
Cleaning supplies (broom, dustpan, cloths, disinfecting wipes)Weightlifting equipment
Non-disposable straws, dishware, and cutleryBed lofts
HeadphonesHot tubs
Rain gear/umbrellaHalogen lamps
Bicycle and U-shaped lockCandles, incense, oil lamps, or anything with open flames
Laundry basket and detergentCut trees, wreaths, and greenery
Snacks, beverages, airtight food storage containersFirearms or other weapons
Small first aid kitFireworks
Clothes hangersDartboards
Rubber mallet (for lofting/unlofting bed)Removing university-issued mattresses or furniture
Removable adhesive for mounting postersWireless routers, access points, or wireless printers
Tension rods and curtains 
School supplies 
Computer and cables (no routers/printers/Chromecast)
Refrigerator (≤ 4.0 cu ft, < 6 years old) 
Microwave (≤ 800W, ≤ 1 cu ft) 
TV (IPTV available; Roku may be needed)
Three-way adapter 
Power strips (15 amps / 1800 watts, with breaker)

All university furniture must stay in your room. We recommend settling in first and taking a look at your space before deciding if you’d like to bring any additional items.