Information and Procedures
In order to qualify for the University's resident tuition rate, a student must first meet the University's qualifications for residency. These qualifications vary from community to senior colleges, due in large part to State law and the University's funding mechanisms. In addition to the requirements and guidelines indicated in this web site, there are other circumstances which may affect one's tuition residency status. These other circumstances are discussed in subsequent portions of this web site.
In general, to qualify for the resident tuition rate at a senior college based on residence in the State of New York, a student must:
- Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or in a qualifying immigration status; AND
- Have continuously maintained his/her principal place of abode in the State of New York for a period of at least twelve (12) consecutive months immediately preceding the first day of classes; AND
- Have a bona fide intention of living in New York permanently.
Rules Relating to Establishing Residence in New York (for Dependents)
- Generally, a dependent student's state of residency is considered the same as that of his or her custodial parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
- The legal residence of a dependent student whose parents are divorced, separated, or otherwise living apart will be considered New York State if the student resides for 12 months with the parent who is a New York State resident.
For a student whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) reside out-of-state, please visit our Dependent Student Policies for a full description of requirements.
Citizens, Permanent Residents, and Students with Qualifying Immigration Statuses
STEP 1:
Complete the Residency Form (PDF)
STEP 2:
Provide Proof of Valid Immigration Status
Students who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents or eligible visa holders such as A-1, A-2, A-3, E-1, E-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, G-5, H-1B, H-1C, H-4, I, K, L, N, O, R, S, T, U and V may establish residency. Students granted asylum or refugee or parole status may also establish residency. Certain categories of employment authorization may also qualify.
Undocumented or Out-of-Status students
STEP 3:
Provide Proof of New York State Residency
The following categories can qualify as proof of residency:
Students who have attended an approved New York State high school for two or more years, graduated, and applied to attend CUNY within five years of receiving the New York State diploma.
Students who have attended an approved New York State Program for General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) exam preparation, received the diploma issued within New York State, and applied to attend CUNY within five years of receiving the New York State diploma.
Students they were enrolled in CUNY in the Fall 2001 semester or quarter and were authorized by CUNY to pay tuition at the resident rate.
All others please see the following list (PDF).
Undocumented or Out-of-Status Resident
Please complete the Affidavit (PDF) if you meet one of the following:
You who have attended an approved New York State high school for two or more years, graduated, and applied to attend CUNY within five years of receiving the New York State diploma.
You who have attended an approved New York State Program for General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) exam preparation, received the diploma issued within New York State, and applied to attend CUNY within five years of receiving the New York State diploma.
You were enrolled in CUNY in the Fall 2001 semester or quarter and were authorized by CUNY to pay tuition at the resident rate.