Winter Break is Thursday, December 18 to Thursday, January 9. Students wishing to remain in their rooms for any period over Winter Break must notify Residential Life of their intent via the WashU Housing Portal. This option is only available to students who are currently in Residential Life housing for fall semester and will be returning for spring semester.

Winter Break Checklist

If you are returning to WashU in the spring, but will not be remaining in your room for Winter Break, please make sure that you follow the steps on this checklist before departing.

  • Keep heat on (65 degrees or low) but not off
  • Close and latch all doors and windows
  • Unplug all appliances (defrost refrigerator in tub/shower then leave unplugged). Also unplug any alarm clocks.
    • Fish tanks may remain plugged in.
  • Take out the trash and recycling
  • Move furniture away from heater or vents
  • Close the blinds
  • Turn off lights
  • Remove bikes from room
  • Move all electronics up off the floor
  • Take valuables with you
  • Take your WashU ID Card with you

Dining Options

WashU Dining Services will operate on reduced hours during Winter Break. Please visit WashU Dining Services for more information on Winter Break dining options.

Moving Out

If you are moving out of your room at the end of fall semester, you will need to follow the steps found on the Move-Out Procedures page.

On Thursday, December 18 at 12:00PM (noon), all residence Halls and Apartments close for students not returning in the Spring. Students who will not be returning to Residential Life must be moved out by 11:59 AM on Thursday, December 18 at 12:00PM (noon). Please read this email in its entirety, as it will outline some specific instructions for you to follow as you prepare to leave your space.

If you will not be remaining in your room during Winter Break, please make sure that you follow the steps on this checklist before departing

Non-Graduating Students

  • Check out is Thursday, December 18 at 12:00PM (noon) BY 11:59 a.m.
  • Failure to leave by 11:59 a.m. without an approved Late Stay Request Form will result in a $50 Improper Checkout fine in addition to the $60 per night Late Stay Fee.

Graduating Students

  • Check out is Thursday, December 18 at by 5:00 p.m.
  • Failure to leave by 5:00p.m. without an approved Late Stay Request will result in a in a $50 Improper Checkout fine in addition to the $60 per night Late Stay Fee.