Curriculum

queen s residences

Chapter 12· Updated February 2026

Queen's University Residences & Housing

Complete guide to residences & housing at Queen's University.

Queen's University Residences & Housing

Living in residence at Queen's University offers a vibrant and supportive environment designed to enhance your first-year university experience. It's an excellent way to immerse yourself in campus life, build lasting friendships, and access academic and social support networks. Queen's is committed to providing a welcoming community where students can thrive academically and personally.

Residence Overview

AspectDetails
First-Year GuaranteeQueen's University typically offers a first-year residence guarantee for all incoming first-year students who meet application deadlines. Students should verify specific conditions and deadlines on the official Residence website.
Total Residence CapacityContact university for details
Room TypesSingle, Double, Triple, and Suite-style rooms are generally available across various residences.
Meal PlanRequired for all students living in traditional residences. Various meal plan options are available to suit different needs.

Residence Buildings

Queen's University offers a diverse range of residence buildings, each with its unique character and amenities. While specific details on every building's room types, features, and exact cost ranges are best found on the official Queen's Residence website, here's a general overview of what you can expect.

Residence TypeRoom TypesGeneral FeaturesCost Range (Estimated Annual)
Traditional ResidencesSingle, Double, TripleShared washrooms, common lounges, study spaces, laundry facilities, often include basic furnishings.$8,000 - $12,000+
Modern/Suite-Style ResidencesSingle, Double, Suite (with private or semi-private washrooms)Often include air conditioning, some with kitchenettes or common kitchens, enhanced study spaces, modern furnishings.$10,000 - $15,000+
Specific ResidencesContact university for specific building detailsContact university for specific building detailsContact university for specific building details

Note: The cost ranges provided are estimates and can vary significantly based on room type, residence building, and the academic year. Always refer to the official Queen's Residence website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.

Costs & Fees

Living in residence involves several costs beyond just the room fee, including mandatory meal plans and other associated charges.

Fee TypeAmount (Estimated Annual)Notes
Room (Single)$8,500 - $15,000+Varies significantly by residence building and room amenities.
Room (Double)$7,500 - $11,000+More economical option, varies by residence.
Room (Triple)$6,500 - $9,000+Often the most economical option.
Meal Plan (Basic)$4,500 - $5,500+Mandatory for traditional residence students. Provides a set amount of dining dollars.
Meal Plan (Premium/Enhanced)$5,500 - $6,500+Offers more dining dollars or additional flexibility.
Residence Application Fee~$50 - $100Non-refundable fee due at the time of application.
Residence Deposit~$500 - $1,000Due upon acceptance of a residence offer, typically applied to your first tuition/residence payment.
Ancillary FeesVariesMay include student activity fees, internet access, etc.

Important: These figures are estimates. Queen's University's official Registrar and Financial Aid websites provide the most current and detailed breakdown of tuition, fees, and residence costs. Students are strongly encouraged to use the Tuition and Fees Calculator available on the Queen's admission page for personalized estimates.

Living-Learning Communities

Queen's University often offers Living-Learning Communities (LLCs) within its residences. These communities group students with shared academic interests, cultural backgrounds, or social values, providing a more integrated and supportive living experience. While specific LLCs can change year to year, they generally aim to:

  • Connect students with similar academic programs or interests.
  • Provide enhanced academic support through dedicated study spaces, peer mentors, and faculty involvement.
  • Foster a sense of belonging and community among residents.
  • Offer unique programming and events tailored to the community's theme.

Examples of potential LLC themes might include:

  • Academic-focused: Engineering, Arts & Science, Health Sciences.
  • Identity-focused: Indigenous, international student communities.
  • Interest-focused: Leadership, sustainability, arts.

Students interested in LLCs should indicate their preference during the residence application process and check the official Queen's Residence website for the current year's offerings and application requirements.

Application Process

Applying for residence at Queen's University is a crucial step for incoming students. Adhering to deadlines is essential, especially for the first-year residence guarantee.

  1. Receive an Offer of Admission: You must first receive and accept an offer of admission to Queen's University.
  2. Access the Residence Application Portal: Once you've accepted your offer, you will typically gain access to the online residence application portal through your Queen's student account.
  3. Complete the Application: Fill out the application thoroughly, including your preferences for room types, residence buildings, and any Living-Learning Communities you wish to join. Be honest about your living habits to help with roommate matching.
  4. Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee is usually required to submit your application.
  5. Meet the Deadline: Pay close attention to the residence application deadline, which typically falls in early June for September admission. Missing this deadline may jeopardize your first-year residence guarantee.
  6. Residence Offer: Residence offers are usually extended in late June to July.
  7. Accept Your Offer & Pay Deposit: If you receive a residence offer, you will need to formally accept it and pay a residence deposit by the specified deadline to secure your spot.

Key Dates (Approximate - Always Verify on Official Website):

  • Early June: Residence application deadline for first-year guarantee.
  • Late June - July: Residence offers extended.
  • Mid-July: Deadline to accept residence offer and pay deposit.

Off-Campus Housing

While residence is a popular choice for first-year students, many upper-year students and some first-years opt for off-campus housing in Kingston. Queen's University provides resources to help students navigate the off-campus housing market.

  • Resources: The Queen's Student Affairs office and potentially a dedicated off-campus housing service can offer guidance, listings, and support for finding suitable accommodation.
  • Typical Costs in Kingston:
  • Rent: Varies widely based on location, size, and amenities.
  • Single Room in Shared House/Apartment: $600 - $900+ per month
  • One-Bedroom Apartment: $1,200 - $1,800+ per month
  • Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,800 - $2,500+ per month
  • Utilities: Often extra and can include electricity, heating, water, and internet. Budget an additional $100 - $250+ per month.
  • Transportation: Kingston has a public transit system. Many student areas are within walking or biking distance to campus.
  • Lease Agreements: Be prepared to sign a lease, typically for 12 months. Understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
  • Timing: The search for off-campus housing often begins in late winter or early spring for the following academic year, as popular options fill up quickly.

Students are encouraged to utilize university resources for off-campus housing advice and to be cautious of scams when searching for private rentals.

Official Sources

Always verify current information on official websites.

Need help understanding this chapter?

Ask our AI Adviser to summarize key points, explain concepts, or answer specific questions about queen's university residences & housing.