On-Campus Residence Requirement
Purpose
The First-Semester Experience (FSE) at Mason Korea is a comprehensive initiative designed to provide incoming students with a strong, supportive foundation as they begin their university journey. Grounded in the values of academic achievement, community engagement, and self-discovery, the FSE program offers intentional opportunities for students to build essential skills, create meaningful connections, and feel a sense of belonging in their new environment.
As a key element of this experience, Mason Korea requires all first-semester students to live on campus in IGC Housing. Students who live in university housing during their initial semester are more likely to stay enrolled through graduation, feel positively connected to the campus community, and take part in enriching co-curricular experiences. In addition, living on campus supports the development of communication and social skills, increases opportunities for faculty and staff interaction, and fosters both personal confidence and independence.
The residential component of the FSE program is intentionally designed to immerse students in an inclusive, resource-rich environment that promotes academic success, emotional well-being, and long-term student development.
Requirement
All first-semester students enrolled at Mason Korea are required to live in IGC Housing for the duration of their first semester.
Exemptions
A student may be considered for exemption if they:
- Require disability accommodation or have mobility restrictions,
- Have severe individual circumstances that merit special consideration (case-by-case).
The exemption process is not intended for students who:
- Prefer to live off campus simply because they have already secured a lease or rental agreement prior to submitting an exemption request.
- Would like to reside with a family member, such as a sibling, relative, or family acquaintance, instead of participating in the First Semester Experience.
- Have access to nearby housing—whether personally owned or provided by family—but do not have circumstances that warrant special consideration.
- Are dissatisfied with aspects of their housing assignment, such as housing facilities, roommate pairing, or the general on-campus living environment.
- Are experiencing issues that could be addressed through University Life support, but have not taken the necessary steps to seek guidance or resolution.
- Students must submit an exemption request to University Life online at least two weeks prior to the official move-in date.
- All exemption requests must include relevant documentation (PDF), as applicable.
- Requests will be reviewed by University Life. In cases involving medical, disability, or severe individual circumstances, students may be required to meet with the Student Housing staff for further consultation.
- Students will be notified of the outcome of their request via email.
Contact Information
For inquiries about the exemption request, please contact:
Student Housing - University Life
mkreslif@gmu.edu | 032-626-5025