Iowa University Offers $1,000 for Students Not to Stay in Dorms

Dorm living is often a right of passage for college students, but a university in Iowa is paying students not to stay in the dorm.

Iowa State University is expecting a record class this fall, and are offering $1,000 incentives to returning students to stay in other campus housing. Ninety-five accepted. 

“But if they offer you $1,000, you have to consider it,” Carolina Chavez,  20, who works part-time on campus to help pay for college told the Des Moines Register.

New, direct from high school freshman are guaranteed a spot on campus, said Lisa Ludovico, assistant director for residence administrative services.

Due to unprecedented demand, returning and transfer students who completed contracts late (after May 1) will not be able to live in university housing. About 100 students who had been waiting for a room assignment will be provided $500 compensation for their inconvenience. Residence staff members also are working to help those affected find off-campus housing and connect with potential roommates. 

The school expects a students body of about 32,000 students, and it's been "all hands on deck" to prepare, writes Annette Hacker. It's the fifth year of record enrollment.