Many students live in former fraternity houses called Row Houses, so named because most of them align in a row on Main and South Streets. Students in upperclass housing live independently, and under a system of self-governance. Students cook and clean for themselves. Co-ops are reserved for seniors only. Order of selection is based on a random-number lottery held about two weeks prior.
Students select rooms according to class year, with seniors having first pick of available rooms.
The Housing Office sends information to students about studying away and its affect on various aspects of their housing prior to their departure from Williams. There are seven residences for first year students. About half the rooms are singles and half doubles. Each entry houses two Junior Advisors who are third year students who help acquaint their students with Williams and offer advice, assistance and friendship to first years in their entry. Room assignments and a list of entry-mates are mailed in late July.