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FAQs

Whether you’re still deciding or ready to sign, we have the answers you need. Browse our FAQs and get the full picture on what life at Lumen on Ninth looks like before you ever set foot on the property.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I take a tour of Lumen on Ninth if I’m not in Columbus, OH?
Lumen on Ninth offers many different tour options. If you cannot make it in person, we offer FaceTime and Zoom tours 7 days a week. However, if you’d prefer a pre-recorded video, we also offer a detailed YouTube Video Tour.
When should I sign my lease as an International Student?
Apartments in Columbus lease up very quickly, so we recommend securing a spot before the Fall semester ends to guarantee a spot at Lumen on Ninth.
Are Roommate-Matching Services Available?
Yes! We offer complimentary roommate-matching services for students new to Columbus. The process is simple – residents fill out a detailed questionnaire asking about their lifestyle preferences, hobbies, and habits, and our team matches them with another resident whose answers align. Contact us for more information about our roommate-matching services or to start on your questionnaire.
Can I Bring My Pet?
Yes! Lumen is a pet friendly community that welcomes your furry friends. Contact us to learn more about any animal guidelines or fees.
How do I apply for an apartment?

There are two ways to begin the leasing process at Lumen. Potential residents can apply online through our website and be sent a Lease Agreement, or they can stop by our Leasing Office and walk through the process in-person with one of our knowledgeable Community Interns.

What lease terms are available?

Our primary lease term aligns with the academic year (starting in late August and ending in late July).

Are pets allowed?

Yes, Lumen is a pet-friendly community. There are monthly fees and restrictions apply regarding breed, animal type, and weight limits.

What amenities are available at the community?

Residents have access to numerous amenities, including a resort-style pool and hot tub, a 24-hour fitness center, an influencer recording studio, a Genius Lounge with private study pods, an outdoor games lawn, and a secure bike storage room

Is parking available for residents and guests?

Residents: On-site parking is available in a private, controlled-access garage. Please contact our leasing office for current parking rates and availability.

Guests: On-site guest parking is not provided.

What is the application and approval process?

1. Submit Application: Complete the online application form and pay the required processing fee. You will select your preferred floor plan, unit, and roommate preferences at this stage.
2. Lease Signing: Once your application is approved, you will automatically receive an email link to sign your lease digitally.
3. Finalization: After your lease has been countersigned & approved, you will receive a notification and a digital copy of the completed lease for your records.

What attractions and conveniences are located nearby?

The community is located just three blocks from The Ohio State University and is near numerous conveniences and attractions, including the Short North Arts District, Gateway Entertainment and Shopping District, Newport Music Hall, and everyday shopping spots like Target, Lennox Town Center, and Kroger Grocery

What Are The Benefits Of Living At Our Community Near OSU?
Located on Ninth Avenue just minutes away from OSU, apartments at Lumen combine cutting-edge amenities and elevated style for a supercharged housing experience. Residents love our open-layout, fully-furnished apartments including private bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, and our smart tech features such as Bluetooth showerheads, electronic apartment doorlocks, and video doorbells (in select units). Living off-campus fosters important skills needed well beyond a student’s time in college, including cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and paying bills. Our apartments are conveniently located in the South Campus neighborhood near OSU and a plethora of dining, shopping, entertainment, and recreation hotspots.
Where is the Lumen on Ninth Office located?
76 E. Ninth Ave. Columbus, OH 43201
Does Lumen Have Staff On-Site?
Yes! We want to make sure our residents are completely taken care of. To make their lives easier, we employ a well-qualified team of management and maintenance professionals on-site. We even have a 24/7 maintenance staff available in case of an emergency.
What kind of security does Lumen provide?
Your safety is our top priority. To provide peace of mind for students and parents, Lumen on Ninth takes the following security measures: Surveillance cameras – Lumen on Ninth features a comprehensive security camera network throughout the community, with cameras placed in key locations. Controlled Access – Residents are provided with fob access to exterior doors, amenity spaces, and elevators. Additionally, each unit features electronic key access to front doors, with individual bedrooms secured by traditional keys. After-Hours On-Site Security – Lumen on Ninth offers professional, on-site security during non-office hours to help monitor the community and assist residents as needed.
How Long Is The Housing Contract?
We want to make everything as easy as possible for residents. That’s why we offer individual housing contracts that span 12 months.
How Do I Pay Monthly Installments?
Residents can pay their monthly installments online using our easy resident portal. For ultimate convenience, residents can also set up automatic payments through our portal so they never miss a payment.
What are equal installments?
Your contract reflects a total amount that is evenly divided into 12 monthly installments for your convenience. The first installment is due on August 1, and the final installment is due on July 1.
When is rent due?
Installments are due on the first of each month. Payments can be made through your resident portal using a debit/credit card or e-check. A physical check or money order in person or by mail to the leasing office is another option.
What’s Included?
High-Speed Internet, Fully-Furnished Studios to 5 bedrooms, In-Unit Front-Loading Energy Efficient Washer & Dryers, Upgraded Stainless Steel Appliances, and a 55″ Wall Mounted TV in Every Living Room.
How Do I Begin The Lease Signing Process?
There are two ways to begin the leasing process at Lumen. Potential residents can apply online through our website and be sent a Lease Agreement, or they can stop by our Leasing Office and walk through the process in-person with one of our knowledgeable Leasing Agents.
What One Time Fees will I be charged that are not included in my monthly rent installment?
Move-in Fee (Non-Refundable): $290. This fee includes the Administrative Fee of $150.00, which covers background checks, credit screenings, and administrative costs associated with move-in; the Application Fee of $50.00, which covers application processing; and the Annual Technology Fee of $90.00, which covers the cost of establishing Wi-Fi in your unit with WhiteSky. The technology fee is applicable upon initial move-in and will be included in your August rent payment for lease renewals.
Do I Require A Guarantor?
Most of our residents have guarantors for their individual housing contracts to ensure financial obligations are met. Guarantors must meet minimum credit and income requirements and sign a guarantor addendum for each contract. Residents who wish to qualify without a guarantor must also meet these credit and income standards. For more details on guarantor requirements, please contact our leasing office.
Can I lease an apartment at Lumen on Ninth if I’m an International Student?
Yes! We welcome anyone who meets our rental criteria.
What documents do I need to provide to sign my lease?
The Lumen on Ninth management team will need a copy of your Passport and your I-20/F-1 Student Visa. If you are not a student, you will need to provide your Passport and L-1 Visa that is valid through the entire lease term.
Do I still need a guarantor to qualify?
Yes. If you would like to qualify using a guarantor, your guarantor must be a US citizen and meet Lumen on Ninth’s standard income and credit requirements.
What if I do not have a US Guarantor?
If you do not have a US Guarantor, you can qualify in two other ways. You can enroll in our Leap program, which takes around 5 minutes. If you are approved, there is a small monthly fee that will be added to your rent. If you do not want to use Leap, you can pay your last two monthly installments upfront.
Do I have to purchase furniture for my unit? What do I need to bring?
Lumen on Ninth is a fully furnished apartment. The kitchens have stainless steel appliances, a refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, and washer & dryer. The living area includes a couch, an entertainment center, and a 55-inch TV. In the bedroom areas, a full-size bed with mattress, desk with chair, and two dressers are included. You will need to bring dishware, bedding, clothes, and any other personal items.
Lumen on Ninth Student Living Apartments White "Lumen on Ninth" logo with geometric line design on the left and bold text on the right.
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Still have questions? Our team is easy to reach and happy to walk you through everything—from floor plan options to move-in details. Reach out and we’ll make sure you have everything you need to make the right call.