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Boston, MA · Urban · Charles River

Boston University Dorm Checklist 2026

BU requires all freshmen to live on campus along the Charles River. Warren Towers is one of the largest dorms in the US; West Campus halls are a shuttle ride away. Most halls have no AC — pack a fan. Pick your hall for verified room data.

Pick your residence hall

Each hall has its own checklist sized to that exact room.

What’s in every room — and what isn’t

Every Bostonfreshman hall includes the same base furnishings. Here’s what you can skip buying, what you’ll need to bring, and what’s banned.

Personal microwaves are prohibited in all BU residence halls — rent a MicroFridge combo unit through BU Vending Services if you need one.

✓ In every room

  • Bed frame & mattress
  • desk
  • chair
  • dresser
  • curtains/blinds

✗ Not provided

  • Desk lamp
  • fan
  • bedding
  • towels
  • shower caddy
  • hangers
  • power strip with surge protection

⊘ Prohibited

  • Personal AC units
  • personal microwaves
  • coffee makers
  • hot plates
  • space heaters
  • electric blankets
  • halogen lamps
  • candles
  • incense
  • extension cords (use power strips instead)

Which halls have air conditioning?

AC status varies by hall — useful to know before your assignment arrives.

HallACUnder-bed
Warren Towers — Tower AYes
Warren Towers — Tower CNo AC
Claflin HallNo AC
Sleeper HallNo AC
Rich HallNo AC
The TowersNo AC
Kilachand HallNo AC

Common questions about Boston University dorms

What size bed does Boston University use?
All BU freshman dorms use XL Twin beds (80" long). Standard twin sheets won't fit — buy bedding labeled "Twin XL" or "Extra-Long Twin" specifically.
Do BU dorms have air conditioning?
Almost none. Warren Towers Tower A reopened Fall 2026 with central AC after its renovation. All other freshman halls — Warren Tower C, West Campus (Claflin, Sleeper, Rich), The Towers, and Kilachand — have no AC. Personal AC units are prohibited campus-wide. Bring a fan (max 12" diameter per BU policy).
Can I bring a microwave to BU?
No. Personal microwaves are prohibited in all BU residence halls. If you want microwave access, rent a MicroFridge combo unit (microwave + mini-fridge combined) through BU Vending Services.
Can I bring a mini-fridge to BU?
Yes — BU allows one mini-fridge per room, max 4 cubic feet. Personal microwaves are still prohibited separately, so if you want both, the MicroFridge rental is the official all-in-one solution.
When does BU send housing assignments?
BU typically releases freshman housing assignments in June or July. You'll know your specific hall and tower before summer ends — hold off on buying hall-specific items until you have your assignment.