Residency

Tuition may vary depending on whether you qualify as an in-state (resident) or out-of-state (nonresident) student. Read the information below to understand how residency is determined and how to request a review.

Understanding The Review Of Residency Status 

The initial determination of residency status:

The institution determines residency status during the admission process based on information available in your admission records. A review of this determination may be requested by the student, the institution, or the Kentucky Council on Post secondary Education (CPE).

A decision is made on whether you are dependent on or independent of your parent(s) or guardian(s).

• If you are determined to be dependent, you assume the residency classification of your parent(s) or guardian(s).
• If you are determined to be independent, you must establish residency in your own right.

Review of residency status:

To request a review or reclassification of residency:

• Submit a Residency Application along with all required documentation to the appropriate institutional office.
• Ensure all documentation is complete at the time of submission. Incomplete applications may be returned.
• Applications will be reviewed under the standards of 13 KAR 2:045, Determination of Residency Status for Admission and Tuition Assessment Purposes.
• A written decision will be issued once the review is complete.

Why complete this form?

• Admission materials do not always include complete evidence of residency or domicile.
• The difference in tuition for residents and nonresidents is significant and can affect financial planning.
• The university seeks to classify students accurately based on available and verified information.
• You are responsible for providing clear and convincing evidence of residence and domicile.
• Every relevant factor is considered, and all facts must be documented and verifiable.

Deadlines - Residency reclassification applications must be filed by the deadlines below for consideration for that term. Applications received after these deadlines will be reviewed for the next term.

Completing the Residency Application

The Residency Application aligns with 13 KAR 2:045 and is used consistently across all Kentucky public institutions. The application collects information about dependent and independent students and, when applicable, parents or guardians.

Follow these steps when completing your application:

• Complete all applicable sections of the form.
• Attach supporting documentation to verify residence and domicile.
• Sign and submit the application electronically or in person as directed.
• Notarization is not required unless specifically requested by the institution.
• Incomplete applications or missing documentation may delay review and affect processing timelines.

Although many factors are considered in determining residency status, special attention should be given to the documentation listed below.

Documentation And Verifiable Circumstances

Sections 3(4) and 10 of 13 KAR 2:045 require that residency be based on verifiable circumstances substantiated by original or true copies of relevant evidence.

The following documentation may be required to support your Residency Application. Additional documents may be requested depending on your individual situation.

• Verification of current address
• Kentucky state income tax returns (Form 740) for the two calendar years preceding the date of application (student or parent/guardian if dependent)
• Recent financial aid award notice and/or Student Aid Report
• Signed statement from a parent or guardian verifying financial support (if dependent)
• Employer letter verifying full-time employment, including start date, hours, and permanency
• Verification of payment of Kentucky occupational and/or property taxes
• Property deed or lease agreement for non-collegiate housing in Kentucky
• Kentucky automobile registration
• Kentucky driver’s license
• Kentucky voter registration
• Military documentation (current orders, discharge papers, or home of record change, if applicable)
• Court order of guardianship, if relevant
• Marriage license, if spouse information supports the claim
• Other documents demonstrating domicile and intent to remain in Kentucky

Penalty for False Information

Providing false or misleading information or documentation may result in:

• Reassessment of tuition and fees at the nonresident rate for all affected terms
• Institutional disciplinary action
• Referral for civil or criminal penalties

For complete details, refer to 13 KAR 2:045 – Determination of Residency Status for Admission and Tuition Assessment Purposes on the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education website. Click here for Kentucky's Residency Regulatory 13 KAR 2:045