Brown University
📍 Providence, RI
Bring a fan, not an air conditioner
Brown residence halls are generally not air-conditioned, and personal window or floor units are prohibited without an approved accommodation. Space heaters are also prohibited, and halls can feel cold before seasonal heat begins.
Bed and room basics
Standard furnishings are a bed frame with a Twin XL mattress, a bookcase, a bureau, a closet or wardrobe, a desk and chair, one trash can per resident and one recycling bin per room or suite. Some items are built in. Under-bed clearance varies with the frame setting, and Brown advises measuring after arrival before buying storage containers or risers. Beds can be adjusted, but separate lofted or platform structures are prohibited and university furniture stays with the room. Bathroom style and built-in furnishings vary by building.
Pack these first
- Twin XL sheets, blankets or a comforter, and a pillow
- A fan and layered bedding
- Towels, a shower caddy and shower shoes
- Laundry supplies, hangers and a desk or floor lamp
- A small rug and a surge protector
Rules and smart skips
- Extension cords are not permitted.
- Personal air conditioners and portable space heaters are prohibited.
- Electrical appliances must meet Brown's current safety requirements, so review the restricted-items list before buying cooking equipment, lighting or decorations.
- Storage outside student rooms is limited, so avoid duplicate or oversized items.
Before move-in
- Follow the current fall-opening arrival schedule and unloading instructions for the assigned building.
- Students generally receive a physical room key at check-in and use the Brown ID for exterior access.
- Photograph the room, confirm all furniture is present, and report issues through the appropriate channel.
Official sources
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All Rhode Island dorm guides →DormHQ is an independent planning resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Brown University. School names are used only to identify the housing information being summarized. Housing details change, so always confirm specifics in the official university housing portal before purchasing size-specific items.
