Resident Assistants

Student sitting on bed in Arlington Hall

Start Your Application

Applications for the Resident Assistant position open on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026 and are open until Jan. 28, 2026. Students MUST complete both applications to be eligible. 

Handshake Application eRezLife Application

Be a part of something extRAordinary

BE AN RA!

Resident Assistants (RAs) are students selected on the basis of leadership, experience, scholarship and the desire to help resident students realize their potential for personal-development through group living. RAs serve as role models for residential students, and are expected to use their best judgment, maturity, and concern for those individuals with whom they live and work. Their responsibilities for the general welfare of the students and facilities extend to all areas of the campus. RAs are responsible for maintaining communication with the appropriate staff members about the concerns and accomplishments of members of their communities. 

RAs are representatives of Housing and Residence Life, and the Division of Student Affairs. As staff members of the University, RAs are expected to act accordingly. 

RAs are usually hired for the entire academic year with recruitment in early Spring semester and a start date of June or August.

RA Recruitment Process (Click to Expand)

Benefits and Compensation

  • Training & developing transferable skills in communication, conflict mediation, goal setting, and working in a team, just to name a few
  • Leadership opportunities provided through conference attendance (Leadership Retreat, RA conference) and departmental committee involvement
  • Networking & Making Connections through community development, programming and supporting UTA events
  • Understanding the chain of command within the Division of Student Affairs

Resident Assistant Compensation 2025-26

 

Residence Halls

Apartments

Compensation

$300/month

$400/month

Rent

Rent is covered in full as part of the compensation package.

Rent is covered in full as part of the compensation package.

Meal Plan

Receive Orange
meal plan
Value: $429/month**

No meal plan

Compensated only when University is open – adjusted for partial work months & holidays

* 2026-2027 benefits are subject to change

** Based on 10 months of employment

Applying to be a Resident Assistant is more than just completing an application and attending an interview.  Our application process is designed not only to make sure we get the best candidates, but to know this position is a good fit for you.

Eligibility

The following are requirements that are necessary in order to apply for the Resident Assistant position:

  • 2.50 cumulative GPA at the time of application and 2.0 semester GPA.
  • 2 full semesters living on campus at The University of Texas at Arlington (residence hall or apartment community).
  • In good disciplinary and academic conduct standing with The Office for Community Standards and Apartment & Residence Life.
  • Paid current Housing and Meal Plan fees.
  • Ability to return to campus to begin training for your community (Training begins in early August).
  • Completed application: on Handshake, via Supplemental Application and submission of 2 Reference Forms.
  • Must be available on Tuesdays from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM (No classes, internships/practicums, or other outside activities during this time)

Application Process Open January 9, 2026

The Resident Assistant application process consists of three parts:

  • Complete the Handshake application by January 28, 2026 at 11:59pm .  Click here to access the Handshake website! (https://uta.joinhandshake.com/)
  • Submit a supplemental application by January 28, 2026 at 11:59pm (Supplemental Application Here)
  • Reminder – this asks for 2 references!  These references must be a RA reference (ask your current or former RA) & faculty/staff or previous employer. In the supplemental application you will be asked to provide the name and email address of your references.

NOTE: All applicants need to complete both the Handshake application AND the Supplemental application in order to be considered for an interview. Both the Handshake application and the Supplemental application is due by January 28, 2026 at 11:59pm.  

Tips To Apply

  • In order to be considered an applicant, a Handshake application and a Supplemental Application must both be completed.
  • Take your time – do not wait until the night before the application is due!
  • Do not use AI. We want to know about you and your experiences.
  • It is recommended that you take the Supplemental Application seriously, as the essay answers are reviewed in order for ARL staff to determine which candidates are offered an interview.
  • Have a friend review and revise your Supplemental Application!
  • Read each question thoroughly and answer all parts of the question
  • Be on time for your interviews
  • Be YOURSELF!