Saint Mary’s University, we are committed to providing an environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Our mission is to empower you for a life of ethical service and leadership, and we know that the most transformative growth often happens within our vibrant on-campus community.
To ensure we are prioritizing this high-impact experience, Saint Mary’s is reinitiating a policy that was temporarily paused during the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning in the Fall 2026 semester, financial aid packages will resume a structure that incentivizes on-campus living.
What this means for you
Saint Mary’s is reinstating its pre-pandemic financial aid structure to better align institutional support with the proven success of on-campus living. Beginning in the Fall 2026 semester, students residing off-campus will see a direct adjustment to their financial aid packages.
- Residential students: Students who live in our residence halls will see no change to their current aid structure as a result of this policy reinstatement.
- Off-campus students: Students who choose to live off-campus will see a $4,000 annual reduction in their financial aid package, beginning in the fall of 2026.
Why the Shift? The impact of on-campus living
National research and our own institutional data consistently show that students who live where they learn achieve better long-term outcomes. Specifically, residential students tend to:
- Report Higher Satisfaction: Engaging deeply with campus life is linked to higher overall student satisfaction and a stronger sense of belonging.
- Experience Better Academic Outcomes: Living where you learn allows for easier access to faculty, study groups, and academic support services.
- Graduate on time: Staying connected to campus resources and peer networks significantly increases the likelihood of completing your degree on time.
Exemptions and Exceptions
We recognize that some students have specific circumstances that require living off-site. Students who qualify for a residency requirement exemption will remain exempt from this reduction. The following criteria have been established to support these needs:
| Exemption Type | Eligibility Criteria |
| Commuter Exemption | Students living with a parent or legal guardian within a 50-mile radius of campus |
| Academic Exceptions | Students currently engaged in student teaching or clinical rotations that require them to live off-site |
Appeals and Support If you have unique circumstances not covered by the standard exemptions — including medical needs — an appeals process is available.
- How to Appeal: All appeals should be routed through our dean of students, Niki Peterson, at npeterso@smumn.edu.
- Medical Accommodations: For appeals involving medical or accessibility needs, the dean of students will work directly with Access Services to ensure a thorough and supportive review of your request.
Questions? We are here to help you plan for your future at Saint Mary’s. If you have questions about how this may impact your specific aid package or housing status, please reach out to Cardinal Central at cardinalcentral@smumn.edu.
