UT SMART Housing

Refine Results

UT Austin
SMART Housing

Looking for affordable, quality housing near UT Austin? Are you wondering what SMART housing is, or if you qualify?

Keep reading to learn more about SMART housing and find out if you qualify.

What is SMART Housing?

SMART Housing is a program in Austin, Texas that offers discounted rent to students who qualify for need-based financial aid or are paying for school independently. The program’s name stands for Safe, Mixed-Income, Accessible, Reasonably-priced, Transit-Oriented.

At Rambler, we’re proud to offer SMART Housing apartments near UT Austin. Learn more about eligibility and benefits with our comprehensive SMART Housing Guide.

Read the Guide

students on laptop in Rambler leasing office

What Student Properties Offer SMART Housing Near UT?

– Rambler ATX

– Yugo Austin Waterloo

– The Nine at West Campus

– The Standard at Austin

– Moontower

– Torre Student Living

Do You Qualify for SMART Housing?

To qualify for SMART Housing, students must:

Receive Need-Based Financial Aid: If you receive need-based financial aid, you may automatically qualify. Check your UT Direct CASH page for eligible aid types.

Meet the Income Requirement: Students with household incomes between 50-80% of Austin’s median may also qualify. Documentation, like W-2s or pay stubs, can confirm eligibility.

For more details, see the full SMART Housing Guide.

So, I Qualify—Now What?

If you meet the SMART Housing criteria, the next step is finding the right space for you. Rambler offers thoughtfully designed SMART Housing floorplans to meet your needs.

Explore our SMART housing floorplan, The Marfa, and see if it’s the right fit for you!

Explore the Marfa

Schedule a
SMART Housing Consultation

Ready to talk to someone about SMART housing?

Connect with a West Campus SMART housing expert to get all your questions answered and learn everything you need to know about living at UT Austin!

Schedule Your Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does SMART housing cost compared to other apartments?

SMART Housing rates are set annually by the City of Austin based on the area’s Median Family Income (MFI). For 2024, maximum rents range from approximately $1,181 for studios to $1,890 for three-bedroom units. Actual rates may vary by property and unit features. For detailed limits, check the City of Austin’s official document.

How do I apply for SMART Housing at Rambler?

To apply for SMART Housing, first check if you meet the eligibility criteria. Then, schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your options and start the application process. You’ll need to provide documentation, such as proof of financial aid or income verification, to confirm your eligibility. Once verified, we’ll guide you through the steps to secure your SMART Housing lease.

What documents are needed to prove my eligibility?

To confirm your eligibility, you may need to provide a screenshot of your UT Direct CASH page if you qualify through financial aid. For income-based eligibility, acceptable documents include a W-2 form, recent pay stubs, a 1040 tax form, or a letter from an employer.

Can I still live with friends if they don’t qualify for SMART Housing?

Yes! Many SMART Housing apartments, including Rambler ATX, offer a “by-the-bed” option, allowing qualified students to pay the SMART rate for their bedroom while roommates who do not qualify pay the standard rate. This flexibility means you can live with friends even if their eligibility differs from yours.