5 Things to Know About College of Charleston Move-In
Move-in is an exciting time for everyone, and – with the right preparation – we can all make it as smooth and easy as possible!
This fall, the College welcomes the largest incoming class in its history – with a total student enrollment around 12,000 – reflecting its growing national prominence and robust academic programs. And, this week, approximately 2,750 new and returning residents are scheduled to move into the College of Charleston campus housing.
Fall 2026 move-in is Aug. 14 and 15, by appointment only for all halls and houses. Early move-in is August 12 and is for approved groups or extenuating circumstances only. Sunday, Aug. 16, through Tuesday, Aug. 18, will be available for move-in as needed, and require an appointment as well.
It’s an exciting time for everyone, and – with the right preparation – we can all make it as smooth and easy as possible!
Move-in Dates & Times
- Wednesday, Aug. 12: 7 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
- Friday, Aug. 14: 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Saturday, Aug. 15: 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Please note that the Yugo Charleston Campus apartments (50 George St.), a privately owned and operated building not associated with the College, has scheduled its move-in for Thursday, Aug. 13.
In addition to the tips in Getting Ready for Move-In, check out these main five things you need to do to prepare!
Consult the Move-In Map.
Consult the move-in campus map before driving into town. This map shows CofC’s residence halls and unloading zones, one-way streets and three-hour parking. Please don’t rely on GPS to get to campus, as some streets will be temporarily closed to thru traffic during move-in, starting about an hour beforehand each day.
- St. Philip Street between Vanderhorst and Calhoun streets will be closed to thru traffic.
- Liberty Street will be one way with access only from St. Philip Street.
Work at 159 Calhoun Street will be temporarily paused during move-in. Sidewalk and traffic lane closures will be lifted from Aug, 8–16.
Follow Your Unloading Instructions.
Each residence hall has its own unloading spots, key pickup locations and parking instructions. Since many streets are closed for move-in, there are residence-hall-specific driving directions to get you to the unloading zone for check-in. Please use the links to your the specific residence halls that are listed on the Move-In page, and follow these instructions.
Do not leave your vehicle unattended in an unloading area – you may be towed. After unloading, follow the instructions on your hall’s page to park in a designated move-in garage or lot.
Plan for Parking.
The College’s garages cannot handle vehicles taller than 8’2″ or towed trailers. If you use either for move-in, you will need to find parking on your own (and you’re probably bringing too much stuff!).
After three hours of parking on campus, you must move your vehicle off campus.
Keep your IDs handy.
Be sure to carry both your government-issued ID to get your Cougar Card, then keep your Cougar Card handy to get your key and access your residence hall.
If you have not enabled your mobile Cougar Card, do so before arriving on campus. If you signed the mobile opt-out form to get a physical Cougar Card and did not get it during orientation, it will be given to you during check-in upon showing your government-issued ID.
You’ll want to keep your Cougar Card safe and accessible all year round, as it is also gives you access to your meal plans, the library, CARTA and campus events.
Pack your patience and have some fun.
Move-in is an exciting time, and with the right amount of preparation, you’ll be able to take a deep breath and enjoy immersing yourself in your new environment!
