Thanksgiving Break is a short but important time for students to rest and recharge
before the end of the semester. While the University closes its offices (typically
still open Monday - Wednesday) and classes during this period, Residence Life remains
available to support students who need on-campus housing.
Timeline
- Break Information Released: The first full week of November
- Request to Stay Form Due: The week prior to hall closing
- Residence Halls Close: Typically by 7:00 PM on the Friday before Thanksgiving Break begins
- Residence Halls Reopen: The Sunday before classes resume
Residence Hall Break Intent Form
All residential students — whether staying on campus or leaving for the break — are required to complete the Residence Hall Break Intent Form.
This form allows Residence Life to:
- Accurately track who is on campus during the break,
- Ensure proper card access and safety coverage, and
- Prepare for maintenance or emergency needs that may arise during the closure period.
Approval and Expectations
Given the short duration of Thanksgiving Break, most requests to remain on campus
are approved as long as the student is in good conduct standing (not on probation
or disciplinary restrictions).
Students who remain on campus are reminded that:
- Limited campus services will be available (dining, mail, and maintenance operate on
reduced schedules).
- Visitation restrictions and extended quiet hours will be in effect.
- All University and residence hall policies remain applicable during the break period.
Residence Life appreciates your cooperation in completing the form, which helps maintain
safety, security, and a smooth transition into the holiday break.
Winter Break marks the official end of the fall semester and the longest closure period
for the University. While Fairmont State offices and most campus services close during
this time, Residence Life recognizes that some students may need continued housing
due to special circumstances.
Timeline
- Form Opens: Immediately following Thanksgiving Break
- Residence Hall Break Intent Form Due: By the last day of classes, before final exams begin
- Residence Halls Close: Friday evening of finals week, typically by 7:00 PM
- Residence Halls Reopen: The weekend prior to the start of the spring semester
Residence Hall Break Intent Form
All residential students — whether remaining on campus or leaving for the break —
must complete the Residence Hall Break Intent Form.
Due to the extended length of Winter Break and the limited services available, students
who wish to stay on campus must receive prior approval. Only students who have been officially approved through the application process
will be permitted to remain in the residence halls after the closing date.
Approval and Expectations
- Eligibility: Approval is granted on a case-by-case basis to students with demonstrated need (e.g.,
housing insecurity, international travel barriers, on-campus employment, or other
extenuating circumstances).
- Departure: Students are expected to vacate their building no later than the Friday evening of
their last final exam. Students with a late evening exam may request permission to
depart the following morning.
- During the Break:
- Dining, mail, and maintenance services are extremely limited.
- Professional and student staff coverage will be minimal; emergency support is available
through the Department of Public Safety.
- Visitation restrictions, extended quiet hours, and other temporary policies will be
in effect.
- Students remaining on campus must continue to follow all University and residence
hall policies.
Preparing Your Room
Students do not need to move out their belongings for Winter Break. However, all residents
— whether staying or leaving — should complete their check-out preparation before
departing:
- Secure doors and windows
- Remove perishable items and take out trash
- Unplug electronics (except refrigerators)
- Take home valuables or any items you will need during the break
- Ensure your room is clean and orderly before leaving
Detailed closing instructions will be sent via email prior to finals week.
Spring Break information coming soon!