Oakwood University is a residential campus. As such, students living in the residence halls are required to participate in one of the four meal programs (exception: non-traditional housing residents can opt out of a meal plan). Students who wish to live off campus must meet one of the following criteria:
- Live with parent(s)/legal guardian(s) or grandparent(s) who maintain primary residence in the Huntsville area
- Live with sibling(s) or blood related aunt/uncle 23 years of age or older who maintain primary residence in the Huntsville area (proof of Alabama residency required of a year or more)
- Married or single custodial parent
- At least 22 years of age or current/previous military service and not currently under disciplinary probation
- Taking six hours or fewer