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RoomReady
Cornell · 2026

Cornell University move-in checklist

Ithaca summers are humid; most North Campus halls have no AC. A fan is critical.

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Key dates
Move-in
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Packages accepted from
August 15, 2026
Default bed size
Twin XL
Swim test required — bring a swimsuit

Things Cornell doesn't put in the brochure.

  • Swim test required for graduation — bring a swimsuit on move-in day.
  • Mini-fridge cap: 7.3 amps start / 1.4 amps running (≤840W start / ≤160W running).
  • Bikes must be registered with Cornell Transportation Services.
  • Cornell provides 1 sheet set + pillowcase per week — bring an extra set so you can swap.
  • Package mailing varies by hall; check before shipping anything ahead.

Halls at Cornell

Court-Kay-Bauer Hall
Twin XL
No AC·Loftable

Twin XL exactly 36" × 80" × 8" deep. No AC — fan required.

Mews Hall
Twin XL
No AC·Loftable

Suite-style. No AC.

Balch Hall
Twin XL
No AC·Not loftable

Historic women's residence. No AC; thick walls keep it cool-ish.

Donlon Hall
Twin XL
No AC·Loftable

Largest first-year hall. Community bathrooms. No AC.

Dickson Hall
Twin XL
No AC·Loftable

No AC.

High Rise 5
Twin XL
No AC·Loftable

Suite-style. No AC.

Low Rise 6
Twin XL
No AC·Loftable

No AC.

Toni Morrison Hall
Twin XL
Has AC·Loftable

One of the few first-year halls with central AC.

Ganędagǫ: Hall
Twin XL
Has AC·Loftable

Newest North Campus hall. Has AC.

Banned at Cornell

  • Extension cords (any kind — only UL-approved power strips with breaker allowed)
  • Halogen lamps over 150W
  • "Spider" / multi-arm lamps
  • Personal microfridges (rent via My MicroFridge instead)
  • Hoverboards and self-balancing scooters
  • Candles and incense
  • Hot plates and George Foreman grills
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