As a future resident of Discovery House, you may have questions about applying, move-in, and community features.
Explore the answers below to learn more about what to expect. If you need additional information, please contact our team.
Discovery House is exclusively designed for full-time graduate students enrolled at the University of Maryland. As a graduate student-focused community, you’ll live alongside peers who share your academic journey, creating a supportive and connected graduate student community unlike anywhere else.
At Discovery House, each resident signs an individual housing contract for their private bedroom, providing exclusive rights to their assigned space. This means your financial responsibility is limited to your own installment payments — you are not responsible for a roommate’s portion of the apartment if they move out or fail to pay.
The housing contract runs from Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 10AM through Thursday, July 29, 2027, at 10AM. Returning graduate students will have an opportunity to renew their contract during the Spring 2027 semester.
Securing your space is quick and easy. Complete the Discovery House application in as little as five minutes to get started: Apply Here.
After you apply, our team will reach out within one business day with availability options and a map of apartment/bedroom locations in the building. You pick your space, then we’ll send your housing license electronically for signature. Sign your license, and your space is officially reserved — welcome to Discovery House!
Yes! Every apartment at Discovery House comes fully furnished for a convenient move-in experience.
Bedrooms include: Full XL Size Bed & Bed Frame, Dresser, Standing Desk, Desk chair, and Nightstand.
Common areas are also fully furnished with: Couches and lounge seating, Entertainment center, and Barstools.
Furniture layouts and included items may vary by floor plan, so please review individual floor plan details for specific information. Just bring your bed linens, shower curtain, cookware, and personal items — and you’re ready to move in!
Discovery House does not permit pets within the community.
Discovery House hosts roommate matching events to help residents connect and find compatible roommates. These events provide an opportunity to meet other residents and identify shared living preferences. Additional details, including event dates and times, will be shared on our Instagram profile @discoveryhouseumd
Each apartment at Discovery House comes equipped with essential, modern appliances for everyday convenience, including a refrigerator, microwave, stove, oven, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and an in-home washer and dryer.
An uncovered parking lot is located adjacent to Discovery House and is managed by the University of Maryland Department of Transportation Services (DOTS). Parking permit information will be shared prior to move-in. Please note that parking is limited and subject to availability (approximately 200 parking spaces).
No vehicle? No problem! Discovery House is designed for convenient, car-free living with easy access to everything you need. The community is highly walkable and bike-friendly, with academic buildings, dining, and shopping all within close reach.
The College Park Metro Station is just a short distance away, providing direct access to Washington, D.C. and the surrounding region. Plus, the UMD Shuttle Bus stops right outside the Discovery House front door, and Veo Scooters are available nearby for quick, on-demand transportation via the Veo App.
Nearby destinations include:
Discovery House is designed with resident safety in mind and includes multiple layers of security and support. Features include 24/7 security camera coverage, secured building access using UMD student ID credentials, and a staffed 24/7 Service Desk available to assist with emergencies and urgent needs.
In addition, the University of Maryland Police Department (UMPD) is located nearby and supports campus-area safety while monitoring outdoor camera systems in the surrounding area.
Yes. All residents are required to have renter’s insurance prior to move-in. Please review your housing contract for specific coverage requirements.
Nothing — there is no upfront cost to apply or reserve your space today. Discovery House does not charge an application fee or security deposit. After signing your housing license, you will have 30 days to submit a $300 Reservation Payment. This payment is not an additional fee and will be applied toward your first housing installment.
We encourage residents to contact the University of Maryland Office of Student Financial Aid prior to signing a housing contract to confirm whether and how financial aid funds can be applied toward housing costs.
No security deposit is required. However, you will have 30 days after signing your housing license to submit a $300 Reservation Payment. This payment is not an additional fee and will be applied toward your first housing 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 Wednesday, August 12, 2026. It will take place approximately one week prior to the start of Fall 2026 classes.
