Queen’s is planning to open its residences in the fall, but not at full capacity. 

The University is preparing for remote course delivery in the fall but released an online post containing residence information for incoming first-year students.

“Even with most course delivery by remote means, we anticipate students will still want to live in our residences this fall,” the University stated.

Queen’s said it will use input from Kingston Frontenac, Lennox & Addington (KFL&A) Public Health to implement physical distancing guidelines in its residences for students in the fall. 

“In order to limit density and ensure that we are able to comply with physical distancing guidelines articulated by Public Health, we will be offering single occupancy rooms only in September.”

Physical distancing guidelines will include offering single room spaces in both traditional and single-plus-style residences, increasing cleaning in communal areas, supporting those who will need to self-isolate as they arrive on campus or during their time in residence, as well as limiting gatherings in all building areas.

The University said it won’t be able to fit everyone due to limited space.

“It is expected that we will not be able to house as many students as we typically do and therefore we would not be able to guarantee a space in residence to all first year students this fall.”

The University provided few details about how students will be selected for residence, except that Queen’s is developing a process for students to outline individual circumstances that would support their need to live on campus in the fall.

“Further details will be communicated later in June to all students who have applied to residence and made their deposit by the June 8 deadline.”

Specific timelines are not available.

“We are actively planning for a move-in process that will respect physical distancing requirements. We anticipate that the move-in process will take place over several days.”

Usually, a single-plus room has a price tag of $16,605, while a single room is $15,607. Students often choose to share a room, lowering the cost. 

“While multiple occupancy room types won’t be available, we are exploring additional price options for single occupancy at lower rates,” the post stated. “Students looking for help financing their education can explore a variety of financial assistance programs administered by the Queen’s Student Awards Office.”

The self-selection process will also not be available to incoming students this year. The post also did not guarantee spots for graduate students.

“Spaces may be available for graduate students and students in professional programs that will be delivered through on-campus instruction this fall.”

For upper-year students who have already applied to live in residence in September, the University still expects to provide spaces.

“We currently expect that you will be able to live on campus. Your room assignment may change, and the move-in date may be adjusted to meet physical distancing requirements during the move-in process.”

Upper-year students may also choose to cancel their contracts by June 30; their deposit will be refunded and credited to SOLUS. While residence deposits are normally not refunded for any students, this year they will be available.

“This year, deposit refunds will be available, once final decisions are made about the fall semester,” the statement said. “We will communicate directly with any student who has made a deposit, to advise you of your options and applicable timelines for a deposit refund, once further details are available.”

While the University doesn’t expect to provide all applicants with a residence in the fall term, it hopes to do so in the winter term.

“The university is hopeful that in-person classes will resume on campus in the winter term and hope that we will be able to accommodate everyone in residence,” the post said. “As the situation continues to evolve, we will be guided by the advice of KFL&A Public Health regarding any occupancy limitations that may apply for the winter term.”

The University also didn’t confirm whether students who aren’t able to live in residence this year will be able to in fall 2021.

“We want to be able to provide as many students as possible with a residence experience and we will be exploring all options.”