RC Section 451(c) requires an accrual method taxpayer who receives an advance payment to include the amount thereof in income in the tax year of receipt; however, taxpayers may choose to recognize as income only a portion of such advance payment in the tax year in which it is received, and recognize the remainder in the following tax year if such income is also deferred for AFS purposes (the Deferral Method under Revenue Procedure 2004-34).

https://taxnews.ey.com/news/2021-0062-final-section-451-regulations-provide-new-rules-for-timing-of-...

That doesn't apply to rent, though, unless services are also provided.  "The occupancy or use of property if the occupancy or use is ancillary to the provision of services (for example, advance payments for the use of rooms or other quarters in a hotel, booth space at a trade show, campsite space at a mobile home park, and recreational or banquet facilities, or other uses of property, so long as the use is ancillary to the provision of services to the property user);"  

What type of student housing is this?  More like a dorm, with housekeeping and shared facilities provided?  Or just a typical apartment?