How long do you have to live somewhere in the United States to claim residency?

Question

I want to take classes at a college outside my state. I would be moving to that state and county for pursue a certain degree. Tuition for residents of that county is only $77 per credit while for those coming from out of state or even county the tuition is much higher at $254. How long do I need to live in a county before I can claim residency?

Answer 1

That varies from state to state, and even from school to school. You should check the webpage for the school you hope to attend to learn their policies regarding residency and tuition. If you can't find the info, you can call them and ask.

In general, you need to have lived in that state/county for a certain period of time (on average, it's a year, but some schools only want 6 months, others want 2 years, etc.) You can't take college or university classes during that time period, as you can *not* have moved to the state for the purpose of higher education. You often need to prove that you actually have lived in that state/county via things like drivers license, registering to vote, utility/rent bills in your name, name on an apartment lease, etc. Sometimes, you need to have worked in that state or nearby (not in the county, but in commutable distance) during that time.

Again, contact the school directly, as the details do vary.

Answer 2

You have to live in a county for a full year. When you apply to that school you send them your transcript and once that transcript is from out of state  they will ask for certain documents to prove that you have been living in that state for a full year. These documents include a state drivers licence or state id, a lease showing that you have been there for a year, etc

Answer 3

Usually each state and sometimes each college have different requirements as to what a ''resident'' is.  In some states, like Nevada, as long as you hold a part time job, your considered a resident.  Look in the specific college handbook you'll be going or call their counselors.  It makes a huge difference and those people understand.  Just ask.

Answer 4

To qualify for in-state tuition, you usually have to live in the state for at least one year before starting school.

Check the college's website. They usually list their specific policy somewhere.  

Answer 5

Long enough to get mail at the new address...