Preparing for your move to Marshall University? To ensure a comfortable and organized transition, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to bring—and what to leave behind—for your on-campus living experience.

A residence hall room in Marshall Commons

Room Essentials

Bedding: Twin XL sheets, pillows, pillowcases, comforter and mattress pad.
Laundry Supplies: Laundry basket or bag and laundry detergent.
Storage Solutions: Under-bed storage bins, clothes hangers and closet organizers.
Lighting: Desk lamp.
Desk Supplies: Pens, notebooks and other study materials.
Decor: Posters, photos and removable wall adhesives to personalize your space.
Curtains: Optional, as windows come with blinds.
Cleaning: Broom, dustpan, mop, trash cans, trash bags and all-purpose cleaner.
Electronics: Laptop/computer, alarm clock and a power strip with surge protection.
Appliances: If desired, one mini-fridge (under 2.5 amps) and one microwave (under 700 watts) per room.

Students carry items while moving into their residence halls at Marshall University

Bathroom Essentials

Toiletries: Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and other personal hygiene items.
Bath Linens: Towels, washcloths and a bathrobe.
Shower Essentials: Shower shoes and a caddy to carry toiletries.

Commons & First Year Residence Halls

Shower Curtain: Shower curtain and hooks for FY halls (provided in Commons).
Cleaning Supplies: Toilet brush, cleaner and plunger.
Rug: Small rug for comfort and to keep the area dry.
Trash Can: Small bin with liners for bathroom waste.
Toilet Paper: Initial supply to get started.
Storage: Additional storage containers (mirrors do not have storage).

A decorated living room in a Marshall Commons suite at Marshall University

Electronics & Connectivity

Television: Optional; must be smart TV to connect to WiFi and accommodate streaming.
Internet: Wi-Fi is available campus-wide. For wired connections, bring an Ethernet cable.
Streaming Devices: Compatible with campus internet for entertainment.

A student carries items while moving into her residence hall at Marshall University

Prohibited Items

To ensure safety and compliance with university policies, please do not bring:

Hot plates, toasters, toaster ovens or any appliance with an open heating element.
Candles, incense or any open flame devices.
Oil or halogen lamps.
Extension cords, multi-outlet plugs.
Space heaters or air conditioners.
Pets (except fish in tanks under 10 gallons).
Darts.
Unauthorized weapons (Campus Carry policy)
Alcohol, regardless of age.
Smoking devices, including e-cigarettes and vapes.
Furniture containing electrical plugs (lamps, headboards, tables, nightstands, etc.) are not permitted unless they are UL listed and have resettable circuit breakers.

For more information review the Residence Hall Guide

Students moving boxes into the residence halls at Marshall University

Packing Tips

Coordinate with Roommates: Discuss shared items to avoid duplicates.
Label Belongings: Clearly mark your items with your name, residence hall, room number and cell phone number.
Pack Smart: Bring only what you need for the semester; you can always retrieve or purchase additional items later.
Essentials First: Prioritize items you’ll use daily to ensure they’re easily accessible during move-in.

Move-in Guide