Navigating GW: Essential Tips for Freshman Move-In Day

Moving into a new college is an exciting milestone. To ensure a smooth transition into George Washington University (GW), here's a comprehensive guide tailored for incoming freshman students preparing for Fall move-in. This guide incorporates key information regarding move-in dates, check-in locations, the check-in process, and essential resources available to students.

Understanding the Move-In Schedule

Fall Move-In Week is scheduled from Monday, August 18 to Sunday, August 24, specifically for first-year, transfer, exchange, and returning students. Here's a breakdown of the move-in dates for different student populations:

First-Year Students Attending Orientation: Wednesday, August 20
First-Year Student Arrival: Thursday, August 21 - Friday, August 22
Returning Upperclassmen Student Arrival: Monday, August 18 - Tuesday, Aug. 19, and Saturday, August 23 - Sunday, August 24
Transfer Student Arrival: Monday, August 18
Exchange Student Arrival: Thursday, August 21
First Day of Classes: Monday, August 25

Select groups may be approved to arrive earlier than their designated date, coordinated through Campus Living & Residential Education.

Check-In Locations and Procedures

Knowing where to check in is crucial for a swift move-in. Check-in locations vary depending on your residence hall and arrival date.

Early Move-In

Early Upper-Class Move-In: Sunday, August 17 - Remote Check-In via GW Home Portal. Returning upper-class students can proceed directly to their Fall 2025 room assignment without visiting a check-in location.

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Early First-Year Move-In: Monday, August 18 and Wednesday, August 20
- Foggy Bottom Campus (Everyone): Amsterdam Hall (2350 H St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
- Mount Vernon Campus:
  - West Hall: West Hall, Pelham Entrance (2100 Foxhall Rd NW, Washington, DC 20007)
  - Any Other Residence Halls on the Vern: Eckles Library (2100 Foxhall Road NW Washington, DC 20007)

General Move-In

General First-Year Move-In: Thursday, August 21 - Friday, August 22
- Check-in location depends on the residence hall:
  - Madison Hall: Madison Hall (736 22nd St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
  - Thurston Hall: Thurston Hall (1900 F St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
  - FSK Hall or Potomac House: Potomac Square (2020 G St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
  - Guthridge Hall: Square 80 (2110 G St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
  - West Hall: West Hall, Pelham Entrance (2100 Foxhall Rd NW, Washington, DC 20007)
  - Any Other Residence Halls on the Vern: Eckles Library (2100 Foxhall Road NW Washington, DC 20007)
Transfer Student Move-In: Monday, August 18
- Foggy Bottom Campus (Everyone): Amsterdam Hall (2350 H St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
- Mount Vernon Campus:
  - West Hall: West Hall, Pelham Entrance (2100 Foxhall Rd NW, Washington, DC 20007)
  - Any Other Residence Halls on the Vern: Eckles Library (2100 Foxhall Road NW Washington, DC 20007)
Exchange Student Move-In: Thursday, August 21
- Check-in location depends on the residence hall:
  - Madison Hall: Madison Hall (736 22nd St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
  - Thurston Hall: Thurston Hall (1900 F St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
  - FSK Hall or Potomac House: Potomac Square (2020 G St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
  - Guthridge Hall: Square 80 (2110 G St. NW Washington, DC 20052)
  - West Hall: West Hall, Pelham Entrance (2100 Foxhall Rd NW, Washington, DC 20007)
  - Any Other Residence Halls on the Vern: Eckles Library (2100 Foxhall Road NW Washington, DC 20007)
General Upper-Class Move-In: Monday, August 18 - Tuesday, August 19, and Saturday, August 23 - Sunday, August 24 - Remote Check-In via GW Home Portal. Returning upper-class students can go directly to their Fall 2025 room assignment.

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Pre-Departure Checklist

Before heading to GW, consider these essential steps:

Check the Campus Advisories Page for any last-minute updates or alerts.
Verify driving directions to your specific residence hall, not GW’s main address. Use the GPS arrival address mentioned above for your hall.
If using Metro from Union Station or a nearby airport, check the schedule, as it may be reduced due to summer maintenance.
Print a campus map of Foggy Bottom or Mount Vernon.
Ensure you have your GWorld Card (mobile or physical), which is essential for accessing your residence hall. If you've lost your physical card, activate your GWorld Mobile Card for free.
Pack all cables and manuals for your electronic devices.
Lighten your load by shipping your belongings to GW for move-in.

Arrival and Check-In Process

The check-in process varies slightly for first-year/transfer students and upper-class students.

First-Year/Transfer Students

Note that check-in may occur at your residence hall or a nearby location, depending on your arrival date. Refer to the check-in location information provided above for each hall.
If driving or using a ride-share service and checking in at your hall:
- Follow directions from GW staff providing on-site traffic control.
- Be prepared for a short wait before being directed to a temporary parking spot for unloading.
- After unloading, you'll be directed to the closest parking garage. A three-hour parking voucher will be provided, with the option to pay the difference for longer stays.
- Check in while your driver and others wait in the car.
If driving or using a ride-share service and checking in at a location other than your assigned residence hall:

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- Go to the building corresponding to your building’s check-in location.
- Check in while your driver proceeds to your actual residence hall.
- Parking may be limited, especially during rush hour.
- Consider parking in a nearby garage and using blue carts to transport belongings.
- A three-hour parking voucher will be provided.
If arriving by public transportation:
- Proceed to your check-in location for assistance.

Upper-Class Students

Check-in is done remotely via the GW Home Portal.
Proceed directly to your Fall 2025 room assignment.
Ensure you have your GWorld Card (mobile or physical). Activate your GWorld Mobile Card if you've lost your physical card.

Post Check-In

After completing the check-in process:

First-year and transfer students will pick up their GWorld card at check-in.
Pick up your U•Pass SmartTrip Card and welcome materials at the University Student Center.
Report any repair issues through the FixIt system.
Connect to the Internet via the Eduroam Network.

Important Resources and Services

GW offers a range of resources to support students during and after move-in:

GWorld Card: Serves as your official GW identification and room key. Set up your GWorld Mobile Card before arrival by uploading your photo.
GW Dining: Check GW Dining for information on available dining options during move-in.
Facilities Services: Contact GW Facilities Central at 202-994-6706 for lockouts or to report issues with room temperature. Check the Facilities page for information on cooling systems.
Comcast’s Xfinity On Campus TV: Stream live TV and record shows on your devices.
Package Delivery: If your hall is listed, you will pick up your packages at that location.
Emergency Support: For emergencies, call 202-994-6706, ext. 2.

Final Tips for a Smooth Move-In

Label all packages and bags with your name, hall, and room number.
Know where you're going and how to get there by printing directions and maps.
Obey all DC parking and traffic signs.
Bring a hand truck if you have one.
Never leave belongings unattended.
Plan for the weather.
Remember that commonly needed items are available at nearby retail stores.
Think Green! Break down moving boxes and bring them to designated recycling areas or send them home.

Addressing Common Move-In FAQs

How do I get access to my Fall room assignment?
- Set up your GWorld Mobile Card by uploading your photo.
Is a housing deposit required?
- A housing deposit is not required. Register for housing if you need on-campus housing.
Can I arrive on an earlier/later date?
- Arrive on your designated date. For special circumstances or late arrivals, contact livinggwu [dot] edu.
Can I change my move-in timeslot?
- Change your timeslot via the GW Home portal, subject to availability.
What does parking look like on move-in days?
- Street parking near your building is for unloading only. Move vehicles to parking garages after unloading. Vouchers for parking validation are available on major move-in days.
I used Summer Storage through U Storage. When will my things be delivered?
- Delivery will be coordinated to your Fall space before your arrival. Sign up for your move-in timeslot.

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