The academic year contract covers housing for the Fall and Spring semesters only. Breaks such as winter, spring, and summer are at an additional cost, billed on a nightly basis. University Housing strongly recommends that first-year students sign up for the Academic Year Contract, which does not require enrollment in summer classes. The 12‑month contract runs from August through August and includes all breaks. Students with a 12‑month contract are billed every term (Fall, Spring, Summer) and are committed to attending summer school for at least 3 credit hours.

Accessing financial aid begins by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Be sure to use Governors State University's School Code 009145. The FAFSA is available on October 1 each year, and you are encouraged to complete it as soon as possible to maximize your eligibility for grants, loans, work-study, and some scholarships.

Students can apply for scholarships by visiting the Scholarship Universe Page, where you can search for all scholarships for which you are eligible in one place.

The online housing application contract requires you to read and signify your understanding of the Housing Terms and Conditions. Submission indicates you agree to abide by the contract terms and conditions and consent to the policies described. You will also be asked to submit a $25 housing application fee and a $100 housing pre-payment within the application contract channel on the Housing application portal. A Visa, MasterCard, or Discover credit or debit card is needed for payment.

Students moving in for the Fall semester will receive their housing assignment in July. Those who apply after the first round of housing assignments are sent will receive theirs as they complete their Housing Applications. Once an assignment has been made, the student will receive an email at their GovState address with information about the assignment and assigned roommate(s).

CPT is work authorization that allows F-1 students to engage in off-campus employment that is an integral part of their academic program, such as internships or co-ops, and must be completed before graduation. OPT allows students to work up to 12 months in the U.S. in a job related to their field of study, either before or after graduation. Most students choose post-completion OPT, which allows them to work full-time in the U.S. after finishing their degree.