FAQ | University Oaks
General
Are pets allowed at University Oaks?
Yes. University Oaks welcomes cats and dogs with prior approval. There is no pet weight limit, but breed restrictions apply.
The pet policy allows up to two pets per apartment, or one pet when a resident leases a single bedroom in a shared apartment. Pets must be registered with the office and included on the lease.
Pet charges include a one-time $300 pet fee and $30 monthly pet rent. Review the pet policy and confirm the charges applicable to your pet before adding it to your lease.
How can I pay my rent?
Rent is due on the first of every month and can be paid in the office with a check or money order. If you prefer to pay with a credit or debit card, you can set up one-time or recurring payments through our Resident Portal.
Do I need a lease guarantor?
We screen all our applicants and require a guarantor or additional security deposit on all leases. The security deposit varies by floor plan. You can ask a leasing specialist by calling our office today!
What if I do not have roommates in mind?
That's no problem at all! We can pair you up with people who have similar lifestyles, interests, etc. Just fill out the Roommate Matching form during the application process, and leave the rest to us!
What is an individual lease?
When you sign an individual lease, you are only responsible for your rent; in other words, you have no liability for the rent of the other apartment residents. If your roommate transfers or graduates, you have no responsibility for their financial obligations. This is a significant advantage over the joint and several leases (where each resident is liable for the rent of all residents in the unit) which are often used at rental houses and other apartment properties in the area.
Is Renter's Insurance Required?
Yes, our community requires each resident carry an active tenant liability policy for damage to the landlord’s property during the term of their lease. We require a minimum of $100,000 in general liability coverage. We also recommend residents purchase content coverage (also known as personal property insurance) to cover your personal belongings.
Past Resident Portal
If you are a past resident, please visit our Resident Portal for access.
What parking is available at University Oaks, and how much does it cost?
University Oaks offers on-site outdoor surface parking for $30 per month, with garage parking available for $50 per month.
Contact the leasing office at (330) 272-9748 to confirm garage availability, vehicle-registration or permit requirements, space-assignment rules, and visitor-parking arrangements.
What is included in the furniture package?
We offer fully-furnished apartments. All you need to do is bring your personal belongings! Your room will be furnished with a full-size bed, dresser, desk and desk chair. We also include a sofa, armchair, coffee and end tables in the living room as well as a two-person dining room set with chairs, and an entertainment stand. There’s plenty of seating for you, your roommates, and your friends!
Are utilities included?
Yes. We include these utilities (heat, water, sewer, trash collection, and pest control). Residents are responsible for electricity. Don't forget we also include wireless internet!
Important Documents & Disclosures
Is University Oaks exclusively for Kent State University students?
No. University Oaks welcomes all qualified applicants, including undergraduate and graduate students from Kent State University (KSU), the University of Akron, Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED), and other colleges and universities, as well as university employees, young professionals, and families. You do not need to attend Kent State or be enrolled in college to apply.
What colleges and universities are near University Oaks?
University Oaks is located at 500 Golden Oaks Drive in Kent, near Kent State University’s Kent Campus (0.7-mile walk) and the University of Akron (15.6 miles by car). The community is across from Kent State’s Tri-Towers residence halls. Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) in Rootstown is another regional college option. Students attending these and other schools are welcome to apply.
Can Kent State University freshmen or sophomores live at University Oaks?
Students who are not subject to Kent State’s housing requirement, or who receive an approved exemption, may lease at University Oaks, subject to the community’s application and qualification requirements. Kent State generally requires first- and second-year Kent Campus students taking nine or more credit hours to live in university residence halls. Confirm your eligibility and any required exemption with University Housing before signing a private off-campus lease. Signing a lease does not waive the university’s requirement.
Is University Oaks part of Kent State University Housing?
University Oaks is a privately operated off-campus apartment community. Residents apply and sign a lease directly with University Oaks rather than through Kent State University’s residence-hall housing system. Kent State students should separately confirm that their housing choice complies with any university residency requirements that apply to them.
Where can University Oaks residents connect with Kent State bus service?
University Oaks is across from Tri-Towers, which is served by PARTA’s Route 51 Campus Loop. The route connects the area with destinations including the Kent Student Center and Kent Central Gateway in downtown Kent. Campus buses are free for students and visitors. Check PARTA’s current schedules and live tracking for boarding locations and service times. Route 51 does not operate during summer sessions or school breaks, when other service arrangements may apply.
What floor plans are available at University Oaks?
University Oaks offers furnished one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 598 to 1,015 square feet. Options include the A1 and A1P one-bedroom layouts; B1, B1P, and B2 two-bedroom layouts; and C1, C2, and C2P three-bedroom layouts. Bathroom arrangements and renovation packages vary by floor plan.
Does University Oaks offer renovated apartments?
Yes. University Oaks offers renovated A1P, B1P, and C2P floor plans. These premium options include updated interiors with features such as new cabinets and fixtures, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Review the listing for your selected layout to confirm its finishes and furniture package before applying.
Do University Oaks apartments have private bathrooms?
Bathroom arrangements depend on the floor plan. The C2 and C2P three-bedroom layouts have two full bathrooms, including one connected to the primary bedroom. The B1 and B1P two-bedroom layouts share one full bathroom. B2 has two bedrooms with one full bathroom and a half bathroom, while C1 has three bedrooms with one full bathroom and a half bathroom. The A1 and A1P one-bedroom apartments each have one bathroom. Review the specific drawing before applying rather than assuming every bedroom has its own bathroom.
What laundry facilities are available at University Oaks?
University Oaks provides shared laundry rooms inside its residential buildings, allowing residents to do laundry on site. Contact the leasing office for laundry-room access instructions, payment methods, and washer and dryer charges.
What kitchen appliances are included at University Oaks?
University Oaks apartments include a refrigerator, stove and oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Appliance finishes vary by apartment, with stainless steel packages included in renovated options. Residents should bring their own cookware, dishes, utensils, and any small countertop appliances they want to use.
What should I bring when moving into a furnished apartment at University Oaks?
Residents should bring personal belongings and household essentials such as bedding, towels, cookware, dishes, utensils, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and personal electronics. University Oaks provides a furniture package and kitchen appliances. Review the furniture package and mattress size for your selected apartment before purchasing additional items.
Do University Oaks apartments have private balconies or patios?
Private balconies or patios are available with select University Oaks apartments. Outdoor-space arrangements vary by layout and apartment, so review the floor-plan drawing and confirm the balcony or patio features of the space you select.
Is University Oaks pricing per person or per apartment?
Both types of pricing can appear, depending on the space option selected. “Furnished Per Person” shows the rental installment for one resident, while “Entire Unit Furnished” shows the rate for the whole apartment. Some layouts also offer “Furnished Per Person - Primary,” which shows the rate for the primary bedroom.
Check the exact space-option label and lease term when comparing prices, and review your leasing quote for additional charges.
What lease terms does University Oaks offer?
University Oaks offers 12-month lease options. Exact start dates, end dates, and availability depend on the leasing period and selected apartment. Review the available terms on the floor-plan page or contact the leasing office at (330) 272-9748 to confirm options for your preferred layout and whether another lease length is available.
How do I apply for an apartment at University Oaks?
Select Apply Now on the University Oaks website and create an applicant account to begin. You can save your progress, return to complete your application, and check its status online. Co-applicants and guarantors should use the application invitation sent to their email rather than creating a separate applicant account through the main application form.
Can I take a virtual tour of University Oaks?
Yes. University Oaks offers online photographs and 360-degree virtual tours of the resident clubhouse, fitness center, and selected apartment layouts, including A1, A1P, B1, B1P, C1, and C2P. Students and parents can explore these spaces remotely before arranging an in-person visit.
Can I request specific roommates or a specific apartment at University Oaks?
Contact the University Oaks leasing office at (330) 272-9748 with your preferred roommates and apartment layout before completing your housing arrangements. The leasing team can explain available options and whether your requests can be accommodated. Roommate matching is also available for applicants who do not already have roommates in mind.
When should I sign a lease at University Oaks?
Begin your housing search once you know when you need an apartment. Reservations are handled on a first-come, first-served basis, so completing the leasing process early gives you more opportunity to choose your preferred layout and renovation package. Kent State students who are subject to the university’s housing requirement should confirm their eligibility to live off campus before signing.
What should I do if my preferred University Oaks floor plan is sold out or waitlisted?
Contact the leasing office at (330) 272-9748 to ask about other layouts, renovated or standard apartments, different lease periods, and waiting-list options. Ask how future openings are communicated and confirm availability before making plans around a particular apartment.
Does University Oaks have study rooms and printing facilities?
Yes. University Oaks offers a 24-hour business center with computer workstations, along with study rooms, a study lounge, and printing equipment. Contact the leasing office for study-room access instructions, printing procedures, and any applicable printing charges.
Does University Oaks have a fitness center and swimming pool?
Yes. University Oaks offers a 24-hour fitness center and an outdoor swimming pool with poolside seating. Residents should follow the posted hours and rules for the pool and other shared amenities.
What recreation spaces are available in the University Oaks clubhouse?
University Oaks has a 10,000-square-foot resident clubhouse with lounge seating and a game room featuring billiards, table tennis, and shuffleboard. The community also has an outdoor fireplace and gathering area. Contact the leasing office for access hours and any reservation procedures.
Does University Oaks provide a courtesy patrol service?
Yes. University Oaks provides a courtesy patrol service. Contact the leasing office for information about patrol availability, contact procedures, and how to report a community concern.
Is University Oaks a smoke-free property?
Yes. University Oaks is a smoke-free apartment community. Residents and guests should follow the community’s smoke-free policy.
Does University Oaks offer 24-hour emergency maintenance?
Yes. University Oaks offers 24-hour emergency maintenance. For an urgent maintenance issue, follow the community’s emergency-reporting instructions. Contact the leasing office at (330) 272-9748 for routine service-request instructions and the appropriate after-hours contact information.
How are package deliveries handled at University Oaks?
University Oaks offers package acceptance at the office. Residents can contact the leasing office for delivery instructions, package-pickup procedures, and collection hours.
Can I sublease my apartment at University Oaks?
Residents who need to leave before their lease ends should contact the leasing office at (330) 272-9748 before arranging a sublease, lease takeover, or replacement resident. Any arrangement must follow the resident’s lease agreement and obtain any required management approval.
What happens if I need to break my lease at University Oaks?
Residents considering an early move-out should review their lease agreement and contact the University Oaks leasing office at (330) 272-9748. The leasing team can explain applicable notice requirements, potential charges, and any available options for the resident’s situation.
How does lease renewal work at University Oaks?
Residents who want to stay for another lease term should contact the University Oaks leasing office at (330) 272-9748 before their current lease ends. The leasing team can explain renewal availability, rates, and lease-term options.
Can residents stay at University Oaks during school breaks and holidays?
Yes. Residents can remain in their apartments during university holidays and academic breaks that fall within their active lease term. Check your lease’s start and end dates when planning housing for summer or other extended breaks.