For several years, Brigham Young University has been concerned about its ability to manage its off-campus housing program. More than a year ago, BYU made a decision to no longer approve new applications for housing outside of Provo. At that time, the university allowed those properties currently approved, yet outside of Provo, to retain their approved status while BYU reviewed the situation. The university has now concluded a comprehensive review of its off-campus housing program and has established new boundaries.

BYU has always recognized that a student's living situation is a major part of his or her college life and has sought to provide an environment for its single students -- living on and off campus -- that is conducive to the moral standards required of its students, as well as one that will enhance their academic performance. After serious review, discussion and study, the university has determined that the new boundaries for approved properties will help achieve this objective. A map designating the new university-approved borders is available at www.byu.edu/offcampushousing.

Additionally, the university has found that most of our single BYU students (approximately 98%) have chosen to live in housing closer to campus. Also, most properties that are outside the new boundaries are housing a very small percentage of BYU students. The university does not want to, nor can it, impose control over housing for all of the single young adults in Utah Valley.

BYU's boundary decision allows for students from other institutions to live in BYU-approved housing as long as they live within the determined boundaries.

We appreciate that this decision may have a financial impact on some property owners, which is why we are giving so much notice before its implementation on April 30, 2007.

It is my personal opinion BYU students who live on or near campus will benefit academically and socially, as they are able to play an important role in helping to build our campus community.

Garry Briggs

Off-Campus Housing
Copyright Brigham Young University 4 Feb 2004