Starting at a new school with new people and new faces can be overwhelming, but The Mark Austin is here to help the transition. The City of Austin created the Safe, Mixed-Income, Accessible, Reasonably Priced, Transit-Oriented (SMART) program to aid students in finding affordable housing, especially around the University of Texas. Through SMART Housing, we are here to help students who receive need-based financial aid, pay for school via student loans, or work while going through school to pay for living expenses independently.
Frequently Asked Questions about SMART Housing
SMART Housing was created by the city of Austin to aid students who receive need-based financial aid, pay for school through student loans, or work while going through school to pay for living expenses independently. Students who qualify for SMART Housing qualify for discounted monthly installments at certain apartment communities, including The Mark Austin.
There are two ways to qualify for SMART Housing. The first is by receiving need-based financial aid, which may automatically qualify you for smart housing. The alternative way to qualify is if you meet the low-to-moderate income requirement for Austin, which means whoever is paying for the housing only makes 50-60% of the median Austin income.
You will need proof from a W2, 1040, a letter from an employer, or three pay stubs. If you are unsure whether you qualify for SMART Housing, send a screenshot of your UT direct cash page or proof of income to a member of our team for help!
There are specific floor plans that are included such as the B2S, C3S, D3, E1, F2S. Spots are limited, so check with The Mark Austin leasing office today for availability.
SMART Housing becomes available as soon as our leasing launches during each leasing season!
Rates vary by year, unit, and complex. Contact the leasing office to check availability and the current rates for SMART Housing.
Since The Mark Austin offers individual SMART Housing contracts, we can typically mix someone with SMART Housing and someone without SMART Housing in one unit, so you don’t have to worry about not living with your friend or roommate! Please contact the office by emailing info@themarkatx.com to discuss your specific situation in detail.