Student Move-Out Guide 2026–2027: UW, Laurier & Conestoga College

Moving out at the end of the semester? Whether you're studying at the University of Waterloo (UW), Wilfrid Laurier University, or Conestoga College, knowing when to move out and where to store your belongings can make the transition between semesters much easier.

Between final exams, residence deadlines, summer jobs, and changing leases, there's a lot to organize. To help you prepare, we've put together a student move-out guide for the 2026–2027 academic year, including important dates, packing tips, and student storage options in Kitchener-Waterloo.

When Do Students Need to Move Out in Kitchener-Waterloo?

Move-out dates vary depending on your school, residence agreement, academic schedule, and whether you're living on or off campus.

Here's what students at UW, Laurier, and Conestoga College should know before planning their next move.

University of Waterloo (UW) Move-Out Dates

The University of Waterloo operates on a three-term academic calendar, with fall, winter, and spring terms. This means students may need to move between residences, apartments, and co-op placements throughout the year.

Important move-out considerations:

• December 2026: Students finishing the fall term may need to move out before the winter term begins. UW's undergraduate Campus Housing deadline is December 23, 2026, at 10 a.m., with earlier departure requirements for some students.
• April 2027: Students finishing the winter term should check their individual residence contract and final academic commitments to confirm their move-out deadline.
• August 2027: Students completing spring-term studies or co-op placements may need storage before returning for the fall semester.

If you're heading home for the summer, beginning a co-op placement in another city, or moving into a new apartment, student storage in Kitchener can help keep your furniture, textbooks, and personal belongings organized between terms.

Wilfrid Laurier University Move-Out Dates

For students attending Wilfrid Laurier University's Waterloo campus, move-out timing is closely connected to final exams and residence requirements.

Important dates and considerations:

• December 2026: Students with fall-term residence agreements should plan their departure around their final scheduled exam.
• April 15–30, 2027: Laurier's winter-term final examination period.
• Within 24 hours of your final exam: Students living in Laurier residence are generally required to move out within this timeframe.

For students renting off-campus housing near University Avenue, King Street, or Uptown Waterloo, move-out dates will depend on their individual lease agreements.

If your lease ends before your next home is available, renting a storage unit near Waterloo can provide a convenient place to keep your belongings during the transition.

Conestoga College Move-Out Dates

Conestoga College students may have different academic schedules depending on their program, campus, and whether they're enrolled in a traditional or continuous-delivery program.

Important dates for 2026–2027:

• December 14–19, 2026: Last week of the fall term for most programs.
• April 19–24, 2027: Last week of the winter term for most programs.
• August 16–21, 2027: Last week of the spring term for most programs.

Students living in Conestoga residence under the standard 2026–2027 academic-year housing agreement have a scheduled move-out date of April 24, 2027, unless their approved agreement specifies otherwise.

Whether you're attending Conestoga's Doon Campus, studying elsewhere in the region, or moving between student housing arrangements, planning ahead can help you avoid the last-minute rush.

When Should You Book Student Storage?

The busiest student moving periods in Kitchener-Waterloo typically align with the end of academic terms and residential lease changes.

We recommend starting your storage search 2–4 weeks before your expected move-out date, especially if you're planning to move in April, May, or August.

Here's a simple timeline to help you prepare:

4 Weeks Before Moving Out

• Confirm your final exam dates and residence or lease deadlines.
• Decide which belongings you'll bring home and which you'll store.
• Compare available student storage unit sizes and rental options.

2 Weeks Before Moving Out

• Start packing seasonal clothing, textbooks, and items you won't need before moving.
• Label boxes and organize belongings by category.
• Arrange transportation or moving assistance if needed.

1 Week Before Moving Out

• Finish packing non-essential items.
• Confirm your storage rental and moving arrangements.
• Clean your residence room or apartment and review any check-out requirements.

Moving Day

• Double-check closets, drawers, and shared spaces.
• Transport your belongings to your storage unit.
• Complete your residence check-out or return your keys as required.

What Size Storage Unit Do Students Need?

Not every student needs a large storage unit. The right size depends on whether you're storing a few boxes, furniture from a residence room, or the contents of a shared apartment.

• 5x5 Storage Unit: Boxes, textbooks, luggage, and small personal items
• 5x10 Storage Unit: Dorm room belongings, small furniture, and seasonal items
• 10x10 Storage Unit: Furniture and belongings from a larger student apartment

Storage unit availability and dimensions vary by location. Contact the facility to confirm the best option for your belongings.

Sharing a storage unit with a trusted roommate or friend may also help reduce individual storage costs.

Student Storage Near UW, Laurier & Conestoga College

If you're looking for summer storage in Waterloo or student storage in Kitchener, Make Space Storage offers convenient storage options for students throughout the Waterloo Region.

Our facility at 171 Webster Road in Kitchener serves students attending the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, and Conestoga College.

Whether you're moving out of residence, heading home for the summer, starting a co-op placement, or waiting for your next lease to begin, we offer storage solutions to help make your move easier.

Our storage options include:

• Heated Indoor Storage: A practical option for furniture, electronics, clothing, and other belongings that benefit from a more consistent indoor environment.
• Drive-Up Storage: Convenient loading and unloading when moving boxes, furniture, and larger items.
• Flexible Rental Options: Store your belongings between semesters without committing to a full-year rental.
• Exclusive Student Discounts: Students save an additional 10% off their storage rentals - 
on top of any currently running promotions!

Explore our Kitchener Self Storage location to view available storage units and find the right fit for your needs.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Student Move-Outs

When do University of Waterloo students have to move out?

Move-out deadlines depend on the academic term, residence contract, and individual circumstances. For fall 2026, undergraduate Campus Housing residents must leave by December 23 at 10 a.m., with some students required to depart earlier. Students should confirm their specific deadlines with UW Campus Housing.

When do Laurier students have to move out of residence?

Wilfrid Laurier University generally requires students to leave residence within 24 hours of their final scheduled exam. For winter 2027, exams are scheduled from April 15 to April 30, meaning individual move-out dates will vary.

When does Conestoga College's winter semester end?

For most programs, Conestoga College's winter 2027 term ends during the week of April 19–24. Students should check their program calendar and housing agreement to confirm their specific deadlines.

Can I rent a storage unit just for the summer?

Yes! Make Space Storage offers flexible rental options for students who need temporary storage between semesters, during co-op placements, or while transitioning between residences. Don't forget to take advantage of our student storage deals for an additional 10% off your next rental.

Where can I find student storage near Waterloo?

Make Space Storage's Kitchener facility at 171 Webster Road offers storage options for students attending the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, and Conestoga College. They also offer an exclusive 10% discount to students ontop of any running promotions.

Make Your Next Student Move Easier with Make Space Storage

Moving between semesters doesn't have to be stressful. By confirming your move-out deadlines, organizing your belongings early, and arranging storage ahead of time, you can focus on finishing your semester rather than worrying about moving day.

Whether you're leaving residence, heading home for the summer, or preparing for your next co-op placement, Make Space Storage in Kitchener is here to help.

Explore Student Storage in Kitchener

Learn more about our 10% Student Storage Discount in Kitchener

Note: Academic calendars, exam schedules, and residence move-out requirements are subject to change. Always confirm dates directly with your institution or housing provider.