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Housing & Residential Life

Affiliated Housing for the Second-Year Housing Requirement

Cornell has a 2-year residential requirement** for full-time, Ithaca-based campus, first-year and second-year undergraduate students, including a required meal plan. In the second year of residency, students may live in residence halls, and are permitted to live in approved, university-affiliated housing, including Sorority and Fraternity, Co-operative Houses, and others. These organizations offer unique communities and experiences aligned with their missions. Each organization manages its own intake and application process, so please contact them directly for further information. 

Approved Affiliated Housing Options

Cooperative Living  

The eight university-owned and -managed buildings housed within them the independent and self-governed student organizations known as Prospect of Whitby, 660 Stewart, 302 Wait Avenue, Triphammer Cooperative, Von Cramm, Wait Terrace, Wari Cooperative, and Watermargin. 

These organizations extend far beyond the buildings in which they are based. They each have their long histories and depend on the personal investment of each resident in each co-op. For more information visit Cooperative Housing | Student & Campus Life | Cornell University 

Sorority & Fraternity Life  

Cornell sororities and fraternities are self-governed organizations. Groups that are fortunate enough to enjoy a chapter house are responsible for the operation and upkeep of the house. The buildings are owned either by the university, an alumni group, or a national organization. Funding for the operations of these buildings comes from student rents. In most cases the rent is billed through the university Bursar system. Room and board fees vary. 

Chapter houses are expensive to maintain and operate. All members benefit from having a chapter house, therefore, all members must contribute to their buildings operating budget. Nearly all chapters have a minimum requirement to live in their chapter house for at least a semester or two. In addition, there are parlor fees, or living out fees.  

For more information visit Fraternity & Sorority Life. 

Alpha Zeta Cornell 

Address: 214 Thurston Ave, Ithaca, New York 14850 
Overview: Alpha Zeta is Cornell’s professional and academic fraternity for students in agriculture and natural resources. With a focus on leadership, service, and brotherhood, Alpha Zeta provides its members with a supportive living-learning environment. Students who join become part of a network of individuals committed to academic excellence and professional development in fields related to agriculture, food systems, and the environment.

Amenities: 

  • Close-knit community with shared meals and events 
  • Academic and professional development resources 
  • Networking opportunities with alumni in agriculture and related fields 

Contact: Alpha Zeta Cornell website and email  

The Center for Jewish Living (CJL) 

Address: 106 West Avenue, Ithaca, New York 14850 
Overview: The Center for Jewish Living is a hub for students who wish to engage with Jewish culture, learning, and community. The CJL provides a welcoming environment for Jewish students of all backgrounds, offering a mix of social, educational, and religious activities. Residents enjoy Shabbat meals, holiday celebrations, and opportunities for Jewish learning, making it a vibrant community for both social and spiritual growth. 

Amenities: 

  • Kosher dining 
  • Shabbat and holiday observances 
  • Cultural and educational programming 
  • A supportive, inclusive environment for Jewish students 

Contact: CJL website, phone (607) 219-3019 , for general questions email: president@cornellcjl.com, for housing inquiries email: housing@cornellcjl.com and for general information email: vpcomm@cornellcjl.com   

Seal and Serpent 

Address: 305 Thurston Avenue, Ithaca, New York 14850 
Overview: Seal and Serpent is one of the oldest and most storied fraternities at Cornell University, with a history dating back to 1905. This fraternity fosters brotherhood, leadership, and personal growth among its members. The house offers a blend of social activities, community service, and alumni engagement opportunities, making it a strong community for students looking to balance academics with fraternity life. 

Amenities: 

  • Historic fraternity house with modern amenities 
  • Social events, philanthropic activities, and leadership opportunities 
  • Strong alumni network for mentorship and career development 
  • Centrally located near campus 

Contact: Seal and Serpent Website