The short answer: decide by winter break, and sign by early spring if you’re moving off campus. Texas A&M University opens returning-resident renewal for on-campus housing in late fall or January, and off-campus communities lease even earlier. As of Oct. 9, 2026, The Heights College Station is already leasing for Fall 2027. Signing between October and February gives you more floor plans to choose from, and the longer you wait, the fewer are left.
Below is a month-by-month plan for freshman year, how dorm renewal and an apartment lease compare, and what to check in your first apartment that a residence hall never asked you to think about.
When do TAMU freshmen sign leases for sophomore year?
If you’re moving off campus, plan to sign between October and February of freshman year, roughly 7 to 10 months before move-in.
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| August to September | Settle in. See who you’re clicking with and, more importantly, who you’d actually want to share a kitchen with. |
| October to November | Decide between renewing on campus and moving off. Tour two or three communities and get prices in writing. Talk with whoever will co-sign about budget and guarantor rules. |
| December to January | Confirm roommates. Sign before spring classes start if you’ve found your place. |
| February to March | Meet the on-campus renewal deadline if you’re staying. If you’re moving off, sign now; floor plan choice narrows from here. |
| April to July | Look at individual leases and waitlists for the plans you want. |
| August | Move in. The Heights’ 2027–28 lease starts Aug. 19, 2027. |
Can you stay on campus sophomore year at Texas A&M?
Yes, if you renew on time. According to Texas A&M Residence Life, current on-campus residents who request to stay through Contract Renewal “will be guaranteed a space on campus.” Miss the renewal window and you’re automatically canceled out of housing for the next year, and the guarantee goes with it.
A few things to know before you choose:
- Texas A&M doesn’t require you to live on campus, except when a scholarship ties you to it, Residence Life says. Check your scholarship terms first.
- Renewal runs through the myHousing portal. You can change your preferences as often as you want before the deadline; only your last submission counts.
- The dates aren’t posted yet. Residence Life says 2027–28 renewal dates will be announced in late fall 2026 or January 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sophomore Housing at TAMU
Do Texas A&M freshmen have to live on campus?
No. Texas A&M doesn’t require students to live on campus unless a scholarship requires it, according to Residence Life.
Is October too early to sign a lease for sophomore year?
No. Communities in College Station are already leasing for Fall 2027. As of Oct. 9, 2026, The Heights College Station is leasing for 2027–28.
What happens if a roommate backs out after we sign?
It depends on your lease. On an individual lease, you’re responsible for your own bedroom. On a joint lease, the remaining roommates can owe the missing share. Ask before you sign.
If I renew on campus, can I still move off later?
Check Texas A&M’s contract cancellation terms before you renew.
Where to Go From Here
You came here wondering when to lock in sophomore housing. The answer: settle the on-campus vs. off-campus question by winter break, and if you’re moving off, sign between October and February while you still have your pick of floor plans and roommates. Starting early also gives you time to read your first lease closely.
When you’re ready to see a townhome in person, schedule a tour of The Heights College Station.
Bailey Harris
Bailey Harris is the Leasing & Marketing Manager at The Heights. Born and raised in College Station, Bailey brings firsthand knowledge of the local community and Texas A&M area to help students find a place that feels like home. Outside of work, she enjoys watching a good show, soaking up the sun and trying fun new drinks around town.
Published On: October 9, 2026
Last Updated On: October 12, 2026