Free Dorm Housing for All First-Year Students Starting Fall 2026
Live where you learn
Where you live shapes how you learn. That's why CMU is offering free shared dormitory housing to every first-year undergraduate student, starting Fall 2026.
Whether you're from Winnipeg, rural Manitoba, another province, or from across the globe, this is your invitation to begin your university journey in a vibrant, supportive, and inclusive campus community.
Why live on campus? Why free?
Because it works. Students who live on campus flourish in class, in life, and in friendships.
Living on campus is more than convenience, it's a proven catalyst for academic success, personal growth, and lifelong connection.
Students who live in residence at CMU:
- Graduate 25% faster
- Earn GPAs at least 0.25 points higher
- Are twice as likely to participate in co-curricular activities that enhance leadership, collaboration, and career readiness
- Report better mental health outcomes, stronger friendships, and deeper engagement
Who's included?
This offer is available to all undergraduate students who are attending CMU for the first time.
Whether you're a domestic or international student, straight out of high school or are transferring to CMU from another university, this offer applies to you. Live in the newly renovated Poettcker Hall and enjoy the wealth of benefits of living at CMU while saving money.
What's included?
Enjoy a free shared dorm room for your first two semesters at CMU! Simply register for a full course load* and particapte in the full-board meal plan¤ and we'll cover your rent.
Single room accommodations may be assigned based on accessibility needs.
* Must be enrolled in 12 credit hours (four courses) per semester to qualify
¤ We're holding over 2025/26 meal plan pricing for 2026/27 (ie. we're not buring the rent in other fees)
Cost savings that matter
Living on campus for free means saving over $3,000 in your first year. But the savings go beyond rent:
- No commuting costs: Save hundreds of dollars on gas, bus fare, and vehicle wear-and-tear
- Time savings: Gain back 160–240 hours per year—time you can spend studying, socializing, or doing whatever energizes you
- Environmental impact: Less commuting means fewer emissions. Living on campus is most sustainable choice for you and for the planet
For parents: peace of mind
We know university is a big transition for students and families. The residence program at CMU offers:
- A safe, secure environment in a welcoming campus community
- Built-in supports for academic success, wellness, and independence
- A financially smart choice that eases the burden of housing and commuting costs
- More than a just a room—thrive in a home-like community
- A structured, supportive launchpad into adulthood, where students can grow in confidence, responsibility, and independence while still surrounded by care
Accessible. Equitable. Transformative.
This initiative is designed to break down barriers—geographic, financial, and physical. It opens doors for students from:
- Rural and northern communities
- Across provinces and international borders
- Low-income families
CMU is committed to creating a campus where every student belongs. And now, every student can live here too.
A visionary gift that changes everything!
This initiative is made possible through the generosity of a CMU donor with a deep belief deeply in the transformative power of community. Their vision is clear: when students are surrounded by support, connection, and belonging, they thrive—academically, personally, and spiritually. By removing the financial barrier to living in residence, this donor has invested in a future where every student, regardless of background or means, can access the full CMU experience.
This gift reflects a bold belief in education that nurtures the whole person, and a commitment to shaping a generation of graduates who are grounded, resilient, and ready to lead.
Claim your free spot!
Space is limited. Housing applications open in early 2026.
Apply to CMU now and be the first to be notified when housing applications open.