How To Get In State College Tuition

Q: I really would like to attend a university that is out of state. The tuition for out of state students is drastically more expensive than for those who live in the state. My question is how to get in state tuition or qualify for in state tuition?

A: Out of state tuition costs can be pricey, however keep in mind that quickly changing your residency to become eligible for in state tuition prices is no easy task. When it comes to determining eligibility for in state tuition, there are often very strict rules.

In order to qualify for in state tuition, you will need to meet the residency requirements for the state. Requirements can vary significantly from state to state, so you should ask the university directly what their in state tuition requirements are. Typical requirements for state residency include: Having the intent to remain a permanent resident of the state, and having maintained a durational residency requirement (generally one full year of living and working in the state). In order to prove you have met the requirements for in-state tuition, many colleges/universities may ask you to provide the following:

Income tax returns with an in-state residential address, in-state vehicle and/or voter registration, in-state driver’s license, in-state bank account, in-state records of full-time employment, and/or in-state homeownership or permanent address for past year. These are just some examples of what may be required. Each university or college has the authority to determine if you qualify for in state tuition, and has their own requirements to determine such.

Another option you may have is to obtain an Out-of-State Tuition Waiver. Certain states participate in tuition-exchange programs, allowing residents of participating states to attended colleges in each-others states at in state tuition prices (or reduced prices). Colleges and Universities that participate in Out-of-State Tuition Waiver programs, do so for a variety of different reasons. Check with the college or university to see if they offer Out-of-State Tuition Waivers, and if so, ask how to qualify.