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Iowa State University battles housing shortage

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August 20th, 2014 by Ric Hanson

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa State University has turned away more than 200 applications for on-campus living due to a housing shortage. The Des Moines Register reports that nearly 12,500 students signed up to live on campus this fall. University officials are now planning to build another residence hall due to the record number of housing applications.

More than 400 students will temporarily live in makeshift dorm rooms set up in the common spaces of residence halls. The university also leased space in several apartment buildings to house over 1,000 students. On-campus housing is guaranteed to freshmen and transfer students.

Officials say an increase in enrollment is responsible for the housing dilemma. About 33,250 students enrolled at Iowa State University last year.