10 Frequently Asked Questions by Commuters

1. How can I purchase a parking permit and how much will it cost?
Parking permits are free and can be accessed at public safety. A new permit must be obtained each new academic year.

2. Where can I go to study and relax between my classes?
There is a commuter lounge open 24 hours a day on the first floor of the student center filled with couches, tables, and a television. Also, the Office of Off-Campus Living and Commuting Student Services is open from 9am-5pm Monday through Friday where students can come and relax on the couch, pick up a free coffee or tea, and use the microwave or refrigerator. There is also a game room located in 029 of the Student Center equipped with couches, televisions, pool tables, and video games. In addition, on the second floor of the Axinn Library is the Collaborative Learning Center. This is another lounge equip with couches, desks, computers and private study rooms.

3. How much are locker rentals and how long can I keep it for?
Locker rentals are free to commuting students, but there is a limited amount. All you need to do come to the Office of Off-Campus Living and Commuting Student Services and register. We will assign a number locker to you, and all you must provide is your own lock. The locker is yours from September to May, one full academic year. Lockers may also be utilized over summer sessions if you speak to an employee of the Off-Campus and Commuting Student Services Office.

4. If I lock my keys in my car or need to have my battery jumped will the University help me?
Yes. Hofstra University Public Safety has an informational line where you can call 516-463-6606 and an officer will be dispatched to assist you.

5. Am I able to purchase a meal plan as a commuting student?
Yes. There is a special meal plan rate for commuting students starting at $420 a semester. Visit Hofstra Card Services in room 104 Mack Student Center to purchase this or any meal plan. The meal plan, and or any additional money you wish to add to your card, can be submitted to you account online through the Hofstra Portal as well.

6. How can I get from the train to the Hofstra campus?
The Blue Beetle is a Hofstra run bus that makes campus rounds and trips to the Hempstead and Mineola Train Stations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The schedule can be located on the Hofstra website.
http://www.hofstra.edu/visitors/visitors_info_shuttle.html

7. How can I find out about school closings due to weather?
Hofstra notifies all students via e-mail and text message about school cancellations. You can also dial 516-463-SNOW to hear information regarding University closing.

8. If I am looking to move into a house close to campus, how can I hear about listings?
Hofstra approved houses are listed on our website: www.hofstra.edu/offcampushousing

9. Where are the best spots for parking?
It is best to come early, park on the north side of campus, and walk across the unispan because parking is limited. Also, the Breslin Hall parking lot is strictly for commuting students.

10. What happens if I can’t use my car with the parking permit and stickers for the day?
You can go to public safety and get a visitor’s parking pass to put in the window of the car you are borrowing. This will prevent you from getting a ticket for an unauthorized vehicle.

11. If I am looking to move on campus, how can I go about it?
Commuting students can participate in the annual room selection process in several ways. Find out how to do so by contacting the Office of Residential Programs at 516-463-6930 or via e-mail. You can also log onto the portal and select the Residential Programs menu for on-campus housing.