Welcome Home Prairie Stars!
First Year (Freshmen), New Transfer and New Graduate Residents
Dates & Times
New Student Move-In Day: Wednesday, Aug. 20th 2025 Time: 8:30am-2pm
Move-In Timeslots
First Year (freshmen) residents are required to select a move-in timeslot to prevent congestion.
- Check-in timeslots will be offered between 8:30am-2pm
- Please watch your UIS email for a link to sign up for a timeslot.
- Plan to arrive during your designated timeslot.
Get Your i-card
In order to check-in, you will need to have your i-card. To make the check-in process easier, we recommend you get your i-card before move-in day by visiting the ID Center. If you do not have your i-card, someone will direct you to the ID Center to receive an i-card. (we do not recommend this as it will set your move-in day timeslot back)
Getting to Campus
New students moving in on Aug. 20th between 8:30am-2pm must check-in at The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) (#9 on the campus map (pdf)). You may utilize the TRAC Parking Lot I during your designated timeslot. New Transfer and New Graduate residents do not need to sign up for a timeslot. Please check-in anytime between 8:30am-2pm.
- For GPS directions, use the address: 2171 University Drive, Springfield, IL 62703
- Look for blue housing check-in signs to guide you
- Traveling by Train
- The Springfield Amtrak Station code is “SPI”.
- Routes through Springfield include “Illinois Service” and “Texas Eagle”
When You Arrive
Once you park in Parking Lot I, you will check-in inside TRAC. Staff will be on hand to provide directions after check-in.
- At check-in, students will receive:
- Room key, mailbox key, and instructions to complete a room inventory (Residence Halls)
- Room key, mailbox key, front door key, and instructions to complete a room inventory (Apartments/Townhouses)
What to Bring & Not Bring to Campus
We have curated a list of items that you should and should not bring to campus! Keep in mind that you and your roommate will be sharing a space; therefore, we highly recommend that you communicate with your roommates and suitemates before bringing your larger items.
Checkout our Packing List!
Other Helpful Resources
- Early Arrival Request
- Reassignment Request Information - a freeze is in effect for all reassignment/room change requests until the third Monday after the first day of classes.
- Loft Kit Request Form
- Opens July 16th @ 9am and closes July 30th
- Only for Lincoln and Founders Residence Halls residents
- Please login using your UIS credentials to access the form
- You can adjust the Loft Kits height from 43 inches to 70 inches above the floor.
- Meal Plan Information
- Submit a Work Order
Returning Residents
Dates & Times
Returning Resident Move-In Days: Thursday, Aug. 21st 2025- Sunday, Aug. 24th 2025 Time: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM
Bring Your i-card
You'll need your i-Card to check in and receive your keys. Your i-Card is also required to access your residence hall and meal plan (if applicable).
If you do not have your i-Card:
- During business hours: Visit the ID Center to get a replacement.
- Outside business hours: We can issue you a temporary access card, which must be returned to the front desk once you receive your new i-Card.
Key Pickup/Check-In Information
Information Coming Soon!
Other Helpful Resources
- Early Arrival Request
- What to Bring & Not to Bring to Campus
- Reassignment Request Information - a freeze is in effect for all reassignment/room change requests until the third Monday after the first day of classes.
- Loft Kit Request Form (Residence Halls ONLY)
- Opens July 16th @ 9am and closes July 30th
- Please login using your UIS credentials to access the form
- You can adjust the Loft Kits height from 43 inches to 70 inches above the floor.
- Meal Plan Information
- Submit a Work Order