Residence Status for Tuition Purposes
The basis for determining the appropriate tuition charges is contingent upon whether a student is a resident or a nonresident for tuition purposes.
To qualify as a resident for tuition purposes, a person must become a legal resident and remain a legal resident for at least twelve consecutive months immediately prior to classification. Thus, there is a distinction between legal residence and residence for tuition purposes. Furthermore, “twelve months legal residence” means more than simple abode in North Carolina. In particular, it means maintaining a domicile (permanent home of indefinite duration) as opposed to “maintaining a mere temporary residence or abode incident to enrollment in an institution of higher education.”
The burden of establishing facts that justify classification of a student as a resident entitled to in-state tuition rates is on the applicant for such classification.
Being classified a resident for tuition purposes is contingent on the students seeking such statue and providing all information that the institution may require in making the determination.
The Office of Admissions has the authority and responsibility for determining residence status for tuition purposes. To make residency determination, the office uses the resource: Manual to Assist the Public Higher Education Institutions of North Carolina in the Matter of Student Residence Classification for Tuition Purposes. A copy of this manual is on reserve in the Boyd Library. Residence applications may be obtained in the Admissions Office.
Any student who wishes to appeal the residency decision may originate an appeal with the Sandhills Community College Residency Committee.
Students intending to transfer from Sandhills Community College should explore the residency practices of the college or university to which they intend to transfer.
Residency Manual
Residency Tuition Status Application
Residency Tuition Status Application Instruction Sheet
Application For Military Reduced Tuition Rate
