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Frequently asked questions
Looking for an all-in-one resource on the move-in process? Check out our frequently asked questions below.
What should I do before move in day so I can have a successful and stress-free day?
Before arrival, you should:
- Review all pre-arrival content on our website
- Book your Move-In Day time slot via MyPlace@SFU. We will send you an email when it is time to book your appointment.
- Regularly check your SFU email (all of our regular communication including all move in information is done through SFU email)
- Make sure you have valid government-issued photo identification for check in (i.e., a passport or driver’s license)
- Read what to bring (and what not to bring)
- Plan your travel and transportation for Move-In Day
- Read your Residence and Housing handbook and contract
Who do I contact if I have questions about moving in before move-in day?
- Check the SFU Residence and Housing move in page
- Check your SFU email for the move in newsletter and emails about your specific room
- If you still have questions and would like to connect with someone, students can connect with the Residence and Housing team via housing@sfu.ca
Will SFU Residence send me information about Moving in?
Yes, please check out your SFU email address and make sure you have access to your @sfu email inbox as that will be the main channel which we communicate important information about move in day to all residents.
What should I pack to live on campus?
On our what to bring page, we have a list of recommended items that you should bring with you and we also have a list of items that are not recommended or prohibited in residences. Visit this page for more information.
Bring only essentials for independent living, such as:
- Bedding and extra sheets
- Clothing and seasonal wear (Vancouver weather varies)
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Laptop, chargers, and school supplies
- Basic kitchen items if applicable (check residence type)
- Avoid overpacking (space and storage are limited)
I just got the email to book my move in day appointment. How do I make an appointment for move in day?
Visit your MyPlace@SFU Housing Portal to book your move in day appointment.
When will I receive my move-in date and time?
Move-in assigned time slots are communicated before the start of term through your SFU email. You must book your appointment time on MyPlace@SFU and arrive during your assigned time to reduce congestion and ensure a smooth check in.
Can I ship packages to residence before I move in?
No. SFU Residence and Housing will not accept any packages for students that have not yet moved in. Please visit our mail page for more details about sending and receiving packages while living in residence.
What should I NOT pack or bring with me to residence?
Prohibited or discouraged items include:
- Candles, incense, or open flames
- Portable heaters or cooking appliances not approved
- Large furniture not provided by residence
- Pets (except approved accommodation animals)
- Visit our What to bring and not bring webpage for more details
Do I need tenant insurance while living in residence?
Yes. It is highly recommended that you get tenant insurance. This protects your personal belongings from theft, fire, and accidental damage, can help cover liability if you cause accidental damage and can help cover the cost of temporary housing if it is needed. You can visit our Tenant Insurance page for more information.
Are there any rules or regulations for living on campus?
We encourage all residents to read their housing contract and the Residence and Housing handbook for all the information you need to know while living in residence.
What if I need to bring my support animal?
Pets are not allowed to live in residence with students. However, If you have registered a support animal with the Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL) at SFU and were given the opportunity to bring your support animal, please do so.
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When is move in day?
Fall 2026 Move in day is on September 5, 2026, by appointment
Where is move in day?
- For Burnaby residents: students must check in at the Courtyard Residence Building.
- For Vancouver residents: students must check in at the Charles Chang entrance.
Check out our directions page on how to get to each campus.
Where do I get my SFU/FIC student ID?
You can get your SFU ID 24 hours after you have registered for classes at one of our 3 campuses at Registrar and Information services.. The ID station will also be available at the SFU Bookstore on Move-In Day.
Who will check me in?
Our team of staff and volunteers will be available to assist you when you arrive for check in during your designated allotted check in time.
What do I need for check in?
You will need to bring
- a valid government-issued photo ID (ie. A passport or driver’s license)
- Your SFU information (SFU or FIC student ID number) if you have it.
- Your check-in email with the designated QR code
How long does checking in take?
Most students complete check-in within 30–90 minutes, depending on traffic and arrival time.
Can my family or friends help me move in?
Yes. Family and friends are welcome to assist with moving belongings. However, residence staff will guide traffic flow and unloading zones to ensure safety and efficiency. Moving carts will be available, please note that the supply of this resource is limited to first come first serve.
Is parking available on move-in day?
Yes, there will be temporary unloading zones and day parking available. Please follow the signs and direction of traffic.
What happens if I have too many belongings on move-in day?
We encourage all residents moving in to pack light and only bring necessary items for their stay. Check out the Residence and Housing what to bring and not bring for guidance. Residence and Housing does not offer extra storage and all residents moving in are responsible for their belongings.
What if I arrive late or miss my move-in time?
If you are arriving on Move in Day Sept 05 but not at your designated time, please be aware that you may experience delays and may need to wait for staff availability.
If you wish to arrive after Move-In Day Sept 05, please update Residence and Housing via MyPlace@SFU Housing Portal or email housing@sfu.ca to arrange your late arrival.
If you don't move in within three days of the move-in/contract start date and you have not made late check-in arrangements by notifying Residence and Housing via email, we will assume you are not arriving and your room will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Your room will be cancelled and all cancellation fees will apply.
Will there be staff available to help?
Yes. Residence staff, SFU volunteers and student leaders are available to:
- Guide you through check-in
- Answer questions
- Help direct you to your building
What happens on move-in day?
Move-In Day typically includes:
- Arrival at designated check-in location
- Verification of student identity
- Residence key or access card pickup
- Pick up your SFU ID and check out the bookstore
- Direction to your assigned building and room
- Unloading (family and friends are welcome to join)
- Week of Welcome events
What should I do after I move in?
Ensure you do the following:
- Inspect your room and report damages via your MyPlace@SFU Housing Portal
- Set up your belongings safely
- Review emergency exits and building safety info
- Introduce yourself to residence Community Advisors (CA)
- Attend your first-floor meeting and join the Week of Welcome events
- Check your SFU email daily
- Purchase Tenant Insurance for your belongings
- Familiarize yourself with the maintenance and services section of the Residence Website
How do I report maintenance issues?
Maintenance issues should be reported through your MyPlace@SFU Housing Portal as soon as they are identified.
Are there any events after I move in?
Yes, there is. When you move into your room, the first thing you should do is connect with your Community Advisor and floormates and get to know them, Check your emails and the Residence and Housing website for event specific details.
I have checked in and I am not happy with my room. What should I do?
Given that Residence and Housing is fully booked during the fall term, Room changes are generally limited and subject to availability and approval. Requests are reviewed by Residence and Housing staff. Please visit the Room Switch page for more details.
Is there Wi-Fi available when I move in?
Yes, there is free WI-FI available in Residence and Housing. The details will be provided to you once you check in at move in.
Can I arrive after move-in day?
Yes, you can arrive outside move in day, but you must communicate with the Residence and Housing team at housing@sfu.ca before and let them know in advance.
Are microwaves, mini-fridges, or kettles allowed?
Residence rooms are furnished. If you are looking for a specific of what is included in your room, check out our housing options page for more details. Microwaves are not allowed in rooms. Each room is equipped with a mini fridge. Do not move it as you may short the breakers (which cuts off the power supply to the electrical outlet) While kettles are allowed, they are not allowed to be used in your room. All kettles should be used in the mini kitchenette/common areas of your building