Since co-ops only collect as much money from their members as it costs to run the house, they tend to be less expensive than other types of on or off-campus housing. SHC coopers pay an average of 25% less than other renters in the East Lansing area and 30% less than MSU dorm residents. Because the costs of running the co-op vary from house to house and semester to semester, it is best for you to ask the individual houses for specific projections and details.
Startup costs include a one-time $75 SHC membership fee, and a $300 share which is refunded to the member after he/she moves out, and a key deposit of $10, also refunded if the key is turned back in. These charges are paid at the co-op office at the time a new member signs a contract-- prior to move-in date. The lease is for 12 months, from August to August. 
The MSU Student Housing Cooperative is open to all students who are at least half time students working towards a degree. If you think cooperative living is right for you, your first step is to contact the SHC office at (517) 355-8313. The SHC officers and staff can tell you which co-ops have openings and who to contact at each house. Every co-op has different features and different rules, so if you are interested, you might want to take a look at some of the houses. You should set up appointments and visit the houses to find the one that best meets your wants and needs. During your visit to the house, the House Membership Officer can fill you in on details of how the house is run, show you available rooms, and provide you with an application if you are interested.
The application asks for basic information, including personal references and the name and phone number of current and former landlord and employer (if applicable). After the application is completed, the Member Services Coordinator will do a reference check. When your application has been approved, you will be contacted by the SHC office, where you can sign a contract.
For more information, see the application process.
All of the coops have single rooms, but the ratio of single rooms to double rooms varies from house to house, as do the room sizes. Also, since rooms are usually assigned on a seniority basis (measured by the amount of time a member has lived in the co-op), single rooms are frequently taken by the "old" members. However, a limited number of single rooms are often available. If you apply early, you increase your chance of having the option of a single room. The price of doubles is significantly less than singles, so we do have people requesting doubles too. Doubles are also assigned on a seniority basis. Both the house membership officer and the office staff will help you with this process.
What about meals?Many of the larger co-ops include the costs of meals and snack food as part of the rent for each semester. Everyone has equal access to the kitchen at all times. Members are generally not allowed off the meal plan since the shared expenses reduce the costs for all. Many of the houses have a vegetarian or vegan option. Most houses prepare dinner four to five nights each week and will prepare a "late plate" for those who cannot attend.
Can I bring my pet?Almost all of the houses allow fish and caged animals, but dogs are not allowed in any SHC house. Beyond that, each house will determine whether or not to accept your cat or other animal. SHC code allows for no more than one pet per seven members in the household. Cats and other pets are allowed into a house only after house approval has been granted and proof of the animal's vaccination has been shown. Cats must be neutered or spayed and all owners of uncaged pets must pay a $100 deposit/fee upon the pet's entrance into the co-op. This amount is refundable upon the pet's departure.