Before packing, see the list of what's in your dorm room.

What to bring

  • Computer and charger
  • Writing supplies (pens, pencils, notebooks, paper, etc.)
  • Backpack
  • Cell phone and charger
  • ATM card or cash for books, printer services, snacks, and entertainment (see spending money below)
  • Clothes for a variety of weather conditions, including a swimsuit, rain gear, and an umbrella
  • One business casual outfit, for one of the summer precollege special events and class presentations
  • Clothes hangers
  • Laundry basket and laundry soap (see laundry information)
  • Towels
  • Toiletries and a basket to carry these items into the bathroom
  • A set of extra-long twin sheets (also known as dorm-size sheets) if you want to change your bed linens more than once a week. (Cornell provides one clean set of sheets and a pillowcase per week.)
  • Extra pillow, a comforter, and/or a bed pad if desired
  • Extra lamp (Cornell provides one in each room).
  • Power strips
  • Athletic equipment, musical instrument, camera, etc. (optional)

What not to bring

  • An air conditioner (you won't be able to install or use it)
  • Pets of any kind (only service animals are allowed)
  • Automobile, motorcycle, scooter, hoverboard, or motorbike, none of which you are permitted to have on campus.

How much spending money should I bring?

How much spending money you bring is up to you. All of your meals and most other activities are included in the cost of the program.

  • Three-week students will probably need about $100 to $150 for books and supplies.
  • Six-week students will probably need about $150 to $200—unless you're taking an art or architecture course, in which case supplies will be more expensive. Six-week students may choose to open a savings account in an on-campus bank branch.

You may want to ask your home bank for suggestions about how to keep money on campus.

Campus banks do not cash traveler's checks, money orders, or personal checks. You can, however, bring traveler's checks or bank debit cards to purchase items from stores.