Contract Release or Breakage

Living on campus is a significant commitment, and we understand that sometimes circumstances may arise that require students to explore the possibility of breaking or being released from their housing contract. This page is designed to guide you through the process, outlining the necessary steps, criteria for consideration, and the potential implications of contract release. Whether due to personal, academic, or financial reasons, we are here to provide you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions.

  • Contract Release

    Learn about the requirements and when you should submit a contract release request.

    Before signing their Housing Contract, students may request to be releasedStudents requesting to be released their housing contract must meet at least one of the following criteria:

    1. Living at Parent/Legal Guardian's Permanent Residence
      The student resides during the academic year at their parent/legal guardian's permanent residence within a twenty-five (25) mile driving distance of campus.
    2. Marriage or Civil Union
      The student is legally married or in a legally recognized civil union.
    3. Age Requirement
      The student is 21 or older before University housing opens for the academic year.
    4. Residence with Dependent Children
      The student resides with their dependent children.
    5. Transfer Student with Prior Housing Affiliation
      The student is a transfer student who lived for two years in housing affiliated with the institution of higher education that they previously attended.

    Approved releases are only applicable for the year they are granted. To maintain transparency, students required to live on campus must re-apply for a release or breakage each subsequent contract period. This ensures that the process is fair and consistent for all students.

  • Contract Breakage

    Learn about the requirements and when you should submit a contract breakage request.

    After signing the housing contract or after June 30, a student can submit a Contract Breakage Request Form if a significant and unexpected change in circumstances beyond their control arises. To do this, the student must complete the form, provide a detailed explanation, and include supporting documentation for the change in circumstances. The University will review the request and decide whether to approve the contract breakage at its sole discretion based on the information provided. The student will then be notified of the University's decision. The following are the requirements of a contract breakage:

    1. Graduation from DU
      The student is no longer required to fulfill the housing contract if they have graduated from DU.
    2. Official Withdrawal from DU
      If the student officially withdraws from DU, they are no longer bound by the housing contract.
    3. Significant, Unanticipated Changes Beyond Control
      The student is exempt from the housing contract if there is a significant, unanticipated change in circumstances that occurred after the date on which the student signed the contract and was beyond their control.

    Applicable contract breakage fees are outlined in the Housing Contract.