As stipulated by the NWU Board of Governors, NWU has a three-year or six-semester residency policy. There are a limited number of reasons why a student might be granted an exemption, and certainly living with one’s parents is considered a valid reason! Although Nebraska Wesleyan strongly believes in the value of a residential, Liberal Arts experience, we also understand that each family must make the decision that is right for them, as long as it falls within our guidelines.

Residency Exemptions
If you have determined that commuting is the best alternative for you and your family, and you meet one or more of the appropriate guidelines, you may complete and submit a Residency Policy Exemption form (PDF). In addition, students who will be living at home with their parents/guardians, within 30 miles of the Nebraska Wesleyan Campus, must attach a signed and notarized commuter student form (PDF). NOTE: NWU uses the definition of guardians as that included in Section 30-220917 of the Nebraska Probate Code.

Connections to Campus Program (exclusively for first–year students)
For commuter students, the point of contact with other students is often limited to the time they spend in class together; consequently, first-year commuter students are enrolled in the Connections to Campus Program. Each first-year commuter student is affiliated with a specific residence hall floor. They are issued a fob, providing access to that building and are encouraged to use the corresponding lounges and computer labs. They are also invited to participate in floor activities. In effect, they become ex-officio residents of the floor. If a first year student would like to be affiliated with a particular floor, they may contact the NWU Housing Office at 465-2203 or rdrake1@nebrwesleyan.edu to make those arrangements.

Chilling
There are a number of locations on campus that provide a comfortable oasis for commuter students. First and foremost is the NWU Coffee House located in the lower level of the Story Student Center. There are also two lounges with large screen TVs in the immediate vicinity of the Coffee House. In addition, most academic buildings have lounges providing comfortable places for students to study or just hang out.

Parking
In general, there is no cost for parking at NWU. All students are permitted to park in any of the NWU lots marked with a green sign. NOTE: Absolutely do not park in the handicapped stalls without a permit or in the stalls marked, “Special Permit Required”.

Getting Connected/Getting Involved
NWU boasts over 40 student organizations. Joining a campus organization or getting an on-campus job is a great way to get connected to other students. Contact the Financial Aid Office for information on-campus jobs.

An all-student e-mail goes out every Monday letting students know what is happening on campus that week. The week-end all-student e-mail will keep you informed about week-end happenings both on campus and in the community.

Getting Organized
There are lockers available at no cost for commuter students. They are located around the corner from the Mail Center in Smith-Curtis where you will pick up your campus mail. There are also numerous computer labs on campus for your convenience. Olin Hall has a 24-hour computer lab. To facilitate late night access when you are no longer participating in the Connections to Campus Program, pick up a fob in the Business Office.