On-Campus Housing

First- and second-year students live on campus in CIA-owned housing. Living on campus for the first two years eases the transition for many who are moving away from home and teaches the necessary skills of living independently. And it allows students more time to focus on classes and art making. 

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First-year students live in Uptown Residence Hall, which opened in 2014. Designed in consultation with students, it consists of two-bedroom suites that house two students per bedroom, each with their own bath. The two bedrooms are connected by a common work area and kitchenette. Uptown’s six floors feature lounge areas, a cardio lounge, onsite printing, free laundry, and three outdoor decks with views of moCa Cleveland and downtown Cleveland.

Second-year students reside in Euclid 117, a residence hall which opened in 2018. These apartment units feature four-person suites with individual bedrooms, two-person suites, and singles for students with special needs.

CIA’s residence halls are close to some of the city’s best food and entertainment. Students can grab pizza or a cannoli up the hill in Little Italy. Or watch a film at the Cleveland Institute of Art Cinematheque, named one of the country’s best repertory movie theaters by The New York Times. No matter where students choose to live, our University Circle campus offers the experience of a true artist’s community. 

Housing policy

All unmarried, first- and second-year students under the age of 21 are required to live in CIA’s residence halls. First-year students are also required to purchase CaseCash or a meal plan through Case Western Reserve University, which has many dining options to choose from.

Students who live with parents or guardians within Ohio’s Cuyahoga County are considered to be within commutable distance to the college and therefore are not required to live on campus, though it is strongly encouraged.

Roommate matching

During the summer, first-year students have the opportunity to fill out a Roommate Preference form through our online StART program. This form helps us get to know what students like and dislike. Even students who do not have a preference should complete the form so we can do our best to match them with someone who has similar tastes and studying styles. We are happy to match students who already know who they would like to room with as long as both individuals agree to the match.

Sophomore students can select roommates prior to room selection and sign up for a space together. If students do not have enough roommates to fill an apartment, Student Life + Housing will find available roommates.

Housing paperwork

Incoming first-year and transfer students should submit their housing deposit with their enrollment deposit or through the applicant portal at go.cia.edu/status/. Returning students pay their deposits through myCIA.

To be guaranteed housing on campus, students must submit their $200 housing fee by May 1. The fee ensures that the preferred room assignment will be given first consideration. Deposits received after May 1 cannot be guaranteed housing and will be placed by the date received. The fee is forfeited if the contract is not fulfilled. Students will receive notification of status after June 1.

Once the housing fee has been submitted, students must complete additional online housing forms. Forms include a Residence Hall Contract, Emergency Medical Information, Meal Plan Selection, and additional health forms. These forms will be available through the online StART pre-orientation program.

Housing contact

The Residence Halls are managed by the Director of Student Life + Housing, and are staffed by a graduate hall director and resident assistants.