Christopher Newport University

HOUSING AND DINING APPEAL PROCESS

         The appeal process is designed to provide students the opportunity to request an exception to the Housing and Dining Contract.  Appeals can be made regarding meal plans, damage charges, housing deposit, hours enrolled, residency requirements and contract cancellation by completing a Housing & Dining Appeal form.  Housing and dining appeals will initially be reviewed by the Director of Housing and residency requirement appeals will be decided by the Dean of Students.  Students will be notified within 14 business days on whether the appeal has been denied, approved or if more information is needed to make a decision. Submission of an Appeal does NOT release you from your obligations to the University nor are Appeals automatically approved.  Please plan appropriately!

Residency Requirement - students requesting exception to the residency requirement for freshmen or sophomore year will be contacted by the Dean of Students regarding the status of their appeal.

Housing Contract cancellations

Leaving the University - Copy of the withdrawal from the University form

Financial – Need two of the following:

• Letter from parent(s) or guardian stating one of the following; student has independent status, they are no longer financially supporting student, or other unanticipated family financial issue such as loss of employment.
• A budget comparing costs – calculations should include utilities, telephone, cable, and rent.
• A signed release allowing Housing to review financial aid status

Medical – Need at least one

• A letter from a licensed physician verifying illness or condition
• Physical or learning disability certified by CNU, Disability Services Office

Personal – Need at least one

• Letter from CNU Counseling Center or other certified counselor stating condition and need for living away from campus
• Copy of marriage certificate or wedding announcement
• Other – letter explaining unique situation

Military Service - Copy of activation papers or letter from recruiter

Meal Plan Cancellations or Modifications

• Special dietary or nutritional needs - required to meet with the Dining Services Staff to discuss available dining options. Dining Services will notify Housing Office if they are unable to meet student needs.
• Religious restrictions or requirements – Documentation from pastor, rabbi, priest or other religious authority from a recognized religion.
• Letter from licensed physician certified counselor verifying illness or condition

Credit Hours – provide number of credit hours dropping to e.g. 14 to 11 and a brief explanation for the reduction in course load.

Damage Charges – can be appealed by completing an Appeal Form prior to the end of the next semester after notification of charges.

Housing Deposit – serve as a both a cancellation fee and deposit. Deposits are refunded only in the following situations and after all other student account balances have been paid. 

1. You are denied admission to the University
2. You are on a waiting list and you take your name off that list prior to being offered a room
3. You have documentation showing an extreme medical or personal issue prior to the start of the contract period
4. You complete the terms of your contract and no longer reside in University owned housing.

Other – please provide a detailed description of what policy or charge you are appealing and provide all supporting documentation.

(Resident Information)