College life comes with new roommates, new routines—and sometimes new stress. For students with emotional support animals (ESAs), housing accommodations are more than a preference; they’re a necessity. Under the Fair Housing Act, universities must provide reasonable accommodations in dorms and campus housing. That means you can’t be denied housing with your ESA, nor can the school charge “pet rent” or limit you to certain dorms because of it.
The process usually runs through your school’s disability services office. Be prepared to submit a valid ESA letter from a licensed professional and meet any filing deadlines—often before move-in. The sooner you apply, the smoother your transition.
But here’s where it gets interesting: while schools may welcome “stress-buster” petting zoos during finals week (think goats and bunnies in the quad), those events are temporary and optional. ESAs provide the daily, personalized support that a one-time cuddle session can’t replace. Your ESA lives with you, helps regulate stress in real time, and provides comfort long after the goats have gone home.