Frequently Asked Questions

Discovery House is designed exclusively for full-time graduate students enrolled at the University of Maryland.

Each resident signs an individual housing contract for their private bedroom, ensuring exclusive use of their space. This means you are only responsible for your own financial obligation — if a roommate moves out, you’re not responsible for their portion of the apartment.

Contracts run from August 2026 through July 2027.

Complete the Discovery House 2026–2027 housing application. Once submitted, you’ll receive details about the housing selection process via email.

• Two outdoor courtyards:
  • Social Courtyard with grills, fire pit, and seating
  • Relaxation Courtyard with green space and lounge furniture
• 24-hour Service Desk
• 24-hour package room with secure code access
• Indoor bike storage with ID-swipe access and tire pump station
• Rooftop terrace with lounge seating
• Study rooms on every floor
• Conference room and community lounges
• On-site parking lot managed by UMD Department of Transportation

Yes! Every apartment is fully furnished. Bedrooms include a full-size bed, dresser, standing desk, desk chair, and nightstand. Common areas feature couches, chairs, entertainment centers, and barstools. Please check individual floor plans for specific furniture information. Bring your bed sheets, shower curtain, and cookware — and you’re ready to move in!

Pets are not permitted at Discovery House.

Discovery House will provide matching events for residents to connect and find compatible roommates. Please look for more communication regarding dates and times.

Each apartment includes a refrigerator, microwave, stove, oven, garbage disposal, and in-home washer and dryer.

An uncovered parking lot is located beside Discovery House and managed by UMD’s Department of Transportation Services (DOTS). Parking permit details will be shared before move-in. Spaces are limited.

You’re at the center of it all — walking distance from UMD classrooms, the College Park Metro Station, restaurants, trails, and more!

• College Park Metro Station – 10 minutes
• Anacostia Tributary Trail System – 1 minute
• Trader Joe's – 15 minutes
• The Hall CP – 5 minutes
• Downtown College Park – 10 minutes
• STAMP Student Union – 25 minutes

Discovery House offers several safety measures including 24/7 monitored security cameras, secured building access via UMD student ID, and a staffed Service Desk for emergency response. The UMD Police Department is located nearby and monitors outdoor camera systems.

Yes. All residents are required to have renter’s insurance prior to move-in. Please review your housing contract for specific coverage requirements.

We encourage residents to contact the Office of Student Financial Aid before signing a housing contract to determine if and how funds can be applied to housing costs.

No security deposit is required. A $300 reservation payment is due at the time of signing and is applied toward your first installment.

Discovery House offers all-inclusive living! Your license fee covers electricity, water, trash/recycling, and UMD Internet.

You’ll be greeted by the Discovery House team and receive your key fob and bike registration information. Apartments are fully furnished and move-in ready. Simply bring your essentials — bed sheets, shower curtain, and kitchenware — and you’re set to go!

Move-in is Friday, August 21, 2026. It will take place approximately one week prior to the start of Fall 2026 classes.