Specific criteria need to be met for a student to be released from Saint Louis University鈥檚 residency requirement, the housing contract or to be exempt from meal plans.
Residency Exemption
Returning students with housing contracts who prefer to live at home this fall may submit a residency exemption form via and provide associated documentation to the Department of Housing and Residence Life.
First-year andtransfer students who need to request an exemption from a residency requirement should email reslife@slu.edu. You will need to provide information about your reasons for exemption.
Housing exemptions are being addressed on a rolling basis. Do not make arrangements for alternate housing until you are notified by Saint Louis University that an exception has been granted. If an exemption is not granted, you will be held responsible for your housing contract.
Exceptions may be considered for the following reasons:
Documentation: followed by confirmation from your guardian. The guardian on the form will be contacted on a rolling basis to verify the information submitted.
Documentation: Not required. Your age will be verified with University records.
Documentation: Copy of marriage license.
Documentation: Copy of birth certificate of the dependent child.
Documentation: A copy of your military record.
Documentation: A personal statement as well as supporting documentation that could include your financial aid award letter, documents from parents or employers, bank statements, loan information, and any other financial or legal documentation. Withdrawal of financial support from your family may not be a criterion for exemption.
Documentation: A personal statement, as well as a signed and dated statement from your treating physician or therapist on office letterhead is required and must include: your diagnosis, treatment plan and how each relates to your housing request. The letter must be dated no more than three months prior to when you request exemption.
Residential Contract Release
Your housing agreement with the University is a contract. While there are some circumstances where a request to be released from the contract will be granted, there may be financial implications, particularly if a request is made later in the contract period.
Contracts can be viewed via the portal. Request for contract release may be considered for the following factors:
- Withdrawal or transfer from the University
- Study abroad
- Internship, practicum or military obligation
- Marriage
- Medical or psychological conditions
- Financial hardship
Cases cannot be considered until all necessary facts are collected. Appropriate documentation must be submitted with your application and will be considered by the assistant director for assignments and marketing.
A decision will be sent to you via USPS and SLU email. If you do not agree with the decision, you have five business days to appeal in writing to the University鈥檚 contract release review board.