Dorm Rooms - Posh and Popular

If your child is heading off to college this year, count yourself fortunate if you managed to secure a dorm room.

According to the 2012 “Living on Campus” report published by College Planning & Management, the increases in the number of students living on 209 campuses in 45 states exceed decreases. That means more competition for college dorm space.

The reasons? An increase in enrollment is one potential factor, as is more freshmen choosing (or being required) to live on campus. Another factor is upperclassmen and graduate students looking for campus housing in order to save on living expenses.

Of course, another factor could be that dorm living has improved at many colleges over the years. On-campus housing today may feature kitchenettes, extra bathrooms, carpeting and access to cable TV Internet services. Your child's dorm may even offer concierge services. Whew! The report also noted that:

• 31% of the institutions that responded to its survey noted an increase in students residing on campus
• 3% of the institutions have housing surpluses, while 43% are experiencing shortages
• 62% of the institutions polled are renovating or upgrading housing facilities.
• Nearly 75% of the institutions surveyed actively market their on-campus housing

The take away from this? Be sure your child acts quickly to secure dorm space, and don't worry too much about your offspring having to rough it while away at college. In fact, he may never want to leave.

Ian Welham is an expert at helping students find the perfect fit college, and helping parents pay for it. You can find him at Complete College Planning Solutions, on Facebook and Twitter.