Your questions, answered.
Frequently Asked
QUESTIONS
-
Can I schedule a tour?
Of course, we would love to meet you! Please contact us to schedule an in-person OR virtual tour!
-
What are your business hours?
We have walk-in office hours Monday-Friday from 9 AM-5 PM. We are available on Saturdays for tours already scheduled during the week. We are closed on Sundays.
-
When do I need to sign my lease for next year?
We sign leases on a first-come, first-served basis. If you think you know which building you’ll want to live in, please don’t wait to sign your lease. We don’t want you to be disappointed!
-
Is Smile Student Living pet-friendly?
Yes! We allow up to 2 pets with no breed restrictions. The second pet must be under 35 lbs. We require a $250 non-refundable fee per pet due at move-in and a $25/month pet rent per pet. Some exclusions may apply.
-
Are the apartments furnished?
Yes, all Smile apartments are fully furnished. Please ask us about possible unfurnished options.
-
Are utilities included?
Internet, water, sewer, trash service, and recycling are provided for an additional monthly fee. Some buildings also include an electricity allowance as part of this charge. Utilities and services covered vary by property, so please contact a leasing agent for specific details regarding your building.
-
Is parking available?
Yes! We have parking spots for rent at or near our properties. Some buildings even have a free parking spot included. You can view the parking spot locations here.
-
What is a Joint and Several lease?
This means everyone who signs and co-signs the lease is responsible for making sure all the rent is paid. If you need more information or advice on your lease, please check out the University’s Off-Campus Community Living (OCCL) office.
-
What is an installment payment?
Smile leases typically run from mid-August to the end of July. However, rent is paid in 12 equal monthly installments, with the first installment due on August 1st.
-
I'm interested in multiple locations. Should I submit more than one application?
Nope! Please submit only one application, and the Smile Team can transfer your application to any Smile property.
-
What should I put for the employer if I don’t have a job?
You can put your own contact info and a salary of $1.00.
-
Do I have to provide a social security number?
Provide your SSN if you have one. If you do not have one, you may enter 999-99-9999
-
There's a place where co-signers apply, do I need a co-signer?
You do not need a co-signer if you are a UIUC student and meet the credit requirements OR you meet our credit and income guidelines and are not a UIUC student.
-
What documents should I upload?
Domestic UIUC Students: Valid driver's license or state ID and registration/enrollment paperwork or an admission letter
International UIUC Students: Visa and I-20. If you cannot provide these documents, please upload your Passport and UIUC acceptance letter. *Please note: a Visa and I-20 must be provided before your move-in*
Non-Students: Valid driver's license or state ID and last 30 days of pay stubs or an offer letter
-
What should I put for landlord history if I've never had a landlord?
If you've never had a landlord, you can put yourself as your landlord and provide your current or home address.
-
What fees do I have to pay when signing?
We charge a $300 non-refundable admin fee that covers your application fee, a light unit cleaning, and a carpet/furniture cleaning at the time of move-out. You can also opt to pay a traditional security deposit instead, equal to one month's rent.
-
Check out our Move-In Guide
Find our Move-In Guide here.


