Student Housing Security & 1st Month Rent Question

[David London]

I own a student housing rental in a university where most students sign leases about 8-9 months in advance (signing around October for a lease that starts in June of next year). 

My question is, at which point do most student housing landlords collect the security and 1st-month rent in this situation?

My PM doesn't have much experience with student housing and one of the parents is questioning why do they have to sign a lease so far in advance. From what I gather following the listing of more established landlords, leasing in advance is a common practice around there but I don't know if rent and security are being collected as well.

Appreciate any advice.