First-Time Rental Assistance for North Dakota College Students

Moving into your own apartment as a student in North Dakota can feel overwhelming, especially if you're renting for the first time. Luckily, state and federal programs exist to help college students get affordable housing and navigate renter rights. Understanding your options and how to apply can make your transition smoother and help you avoid common rental pitfalls.

Affordable Housing Support for College Renters in North Dakota

North Dakota offers several types of assistance programs and resources to support first-time student renters, such as:

• Rental assistance through the North Dakota Housing Choice Voucher Program
• Affordable housing listings tailored for students
• Local resources and counseling provided by college campuses and community organizations

North Dakota Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

The North Dakota Housing Choice Voucher Program—often known as Section 8—helps low-income residents, including eligible college students, pay for rental units in the private market. If you qualify, you may only need to pay a portion of your rent, and the program covers the rest directly to your landlord.

• How to apply: Contact your local public housing agency (PHA), such as the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency.
• The waitlist can be long, so apply as soon as possible and update your application if your student status or income changes.

Official Rental Assistance and Housing Forms

• Rental Assistance Application (no official ND form number) — Use this when you apply for the Housing Choice Voucher Program. Students submit proof of income, identity, and eligibility to their PHA.
  Download or request an application from your PHA.
• Fair Housing Complaint Form (HUD-903) — If you feel you've faced discrimination during your housing search, use this federal form to file a complaint with HUD. For example, if a landlord rejects your application based on age or student status, you can file.
  Submit the HUD-903 Fair Housing Complaint online.

Student-Oriented Affordable Housing Options

Colleges and local agencies often list rentals specifically for students, including on-campus and off-campus housing. Check with your school's housing office or visit North Dakota University System Student Housing for current, vetted listings.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a First-Time Renter

Whether you’re renting through a landlord or a student-oriented property manager, North Dakota law covers your rights and obligations. The main residential tenancies legislation is the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 - Landlord and Tenant.

• Landlords must provide safe, habitable housing and comply with local and state laws.
• You are responsible for timely rent payments and maintaining reasonable cleanliness.
• Landlords must provide proper notice (usually 30 days) for rent increases or lease terminations.
• Illegal discrimination is prohibited under federal and state law. If this occurs, you have the right to file a complaint.

Where to Resolve Rental Disputes in North Dakota

Rental disputes—such as issues about security deposits, repairs, or eviction—are typically handled through North Dakota District Courts. These courts act as the main tribunal for landlord-tenant matters in the state. Eviction actions and claims for damages are filed here if you and the landlord can't resolve matters privately.

Action Steps: Applying for Rental Assistance as a Student

• Check eligibility for the Housing Choice Voucher Program through your local PHA.
• Gather documents: student ID, class schedule, proof of income (such as pay stubs or financial aid), and valid ID.
• Download or request the Rental Assistance Application from the PHA's website.
• Complete and submit all forms, and be ready for an interview or follow-up questions.
• Maintain communication with the PHA for status updates and provide any additional information requested.

Applying early and supplying accurate information can speed up the process and increase your chances of being approved.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of rental help are available to North Dakota college students?
   Students can access the Housing Choice Voucher Program, campus housing options, and local nonprofit renter assistance. Some programs are based on income or student status.
2. Do I need a co-signer if I have no rental history?
   Many landlords require first-time renters, especially students, to have a co-signer. But some student-focused properties may waive this with proof of enrollment or financial aid.
3. Where do I file a complaint if I have issues with my landlord?
   Legal disputes like eviction or security deposit returns go to North Dakota District Court. Discrimination complaints can be filed with HUD using the Fair Housing Complaint Form.
4. Are there protections against sudden rent increases?
   The law requires reasonable notice—typically 30 days—before rent increases. Always check the terms stated in your lease and verify with the North Dakota Landlord-Tenant Law.
5. How do I know if I’m eligible for housing vouchers as a student?
   Eligibility is based on income, student status, and household composition. Contact your local PHA to review the most current criteria.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Housing Finance Agency: Main state resource for rental and voucher assistance.
• North Dakota District Courts: Handles formal landlord and tenant disputes, including eviction or damages.
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Portal: File a discrimination complaint online.
• ND University System Student Housing: Listings and resources for college students.
• Most colleges offer off-campus housing advisors or legal support for enrolled students—check your campus website or student services office.

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1. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 - Landlord and Tenant
2. North Dakota Housing Choice Voucher Program – NDHFA
3. HUD Fair Housing Complaint Form (HUD-903)
4. North Dakota District Courts – Residential Tenancy Cases

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