RESIDENCY FOR TUITION PURPOSES

     Upon applying for admission to the college, prospective students are classified as residents or non-residents of North Carolina for tuition purposes, according to the students' declaration at the time of application. In addition, each time students register for classes, they are required to again affirm residency status.

     Individuals who are originally classified as non-resident and later request reclassification to resident status, will be asked to complete a "Residency and Tuition Status Application." The director of admissions will review each of the applications, make a determination as to the individuals' residency/non-residency status, and will then advise the individuals in writing of the decision.

     To qualify as a resident for tuition purposes, students must:

    1. Establish legal residency (domicile) in North Carolina; and
    2. Have maintained that legal residency for at least 12 months prior to being considered for in-state residency with the capacity and intent of making North Carolina their permanent home.

     Aliens are subject to the same considerations as U.S. citizens in the determination of residency status for tuition purposes except that holders of temporary visas and their dependent relatives may not be considered residents for tuition purposes.

     Students needing a more in-depth examination should consult "A Manual to Assist the Public Higher Education Institutions of North Carolina in the Matter of Student Residence Classification for Tuition Purposes." Copies of the manual are available for students at the circulation desk in the WCC library and in the Student Services Office. Questions should be directed to the director of admissions.

     Individuals disagreeing with their residency classification may appeal to the college residency committee. The appeal must be made in writing to the dean of student services within fifteen working days after the notice of the classification decision is received.

NORTH CAROLINA RESIDENCE & TUITION STATUS APPLICATION (printable form)

 

For more information, e-mail the Director of Admissions