Wake Forest announces new Affiliate Housing Program for residential students

Wake Forest University today announced the development of an Affiliate Housing Program designed to expand residential options for juniors while supporting an intentional, student-centered housing experience.

A New Pathway Beginning with the Class of 2029

Beginning with the Class of 2029, students may fulfill the University’s six-semester residency requirement by living at an affiliate property during their junior year. The Affiliate Housing Program — and the incentive to earn housing credit — is intended to create student-focused pathways in the private rental market, discourage accelerated leasing practices and provide students with greater clarity and flexibility in their housing decisions.

Introducing Creekside at The Grounds

Creekside at The Grounds will be a featured affiliate housing provider, opening in Fall 2027. This new community represents a significant addition to off-campus housing options near Wake Forest, particularly for current first-year students planning ahead. Students who will have fulfilled their residency requirement when Creekside at The Grounds opens in Fall 2027 may also consider living at this exciting development.

Designed with students in mind, Creekside will offer fully furnished one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments in a purpose-built residential setting. Located along the revitalized Silas Creek and connected to campus by a multi-use path, the community combines independent living with close proximity to campus. All units will be fully furnished with modern furniture and smart TVs, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and private bathrooms for all bedrooms. Community amenities will include study lounges with smart TVs, a 24/7 fitness center, pool, package room, dedicated parking, an on-site clubhouse, and outdoor gathering spaces that support learning, connection, and wellbeing.

More Information Coming Soon:

The program affirms Wake Forest’s longstanding commitment to a distinctive residential approach, where students’ experience in The Forest brings together their academic, social and personal development in a close-knit community. As the University continues to plan for the future of its residential model, the Affiliate Housing Program provides a thoughtful extension of that experience for juniors. This program will provide immediate benefits to students, and Wake Forest will continue to evaluate how it serves our distinctive residential community.

“With the Affiliate Housing Program, we will preserve the strength of our residential community while planning responsibly for the future,” said Matt Clifford, associate vice president for Campus Life and dean of students. “This program creates a new pathway for juniors to live off campus in environments that the University believes will align with a set of standards that support a positive living environment — while also helping us responsibly manage housing capacity and neighborhood impacts.”

As the University continues long-term planning for the residential experience, affiliate housing options like Creekside provide added flexibility for students while supporting Wake Forest’s goals for a positive, student-centered living environment. Early, transparent communication about this program is intended to help students make informed off-campus housing decisions.

Residence Life and Housing will oversee the Affiliate Housing Program. Additional information, including details about property eligibility and the application process, will be shared in the coming months.