Residency overview
Residency definition
Resident tuition classification is determined by criteria found in Kansas statutes and regulations of the Kansas Board of Regents. Students are responsible for providing information sufficient to support their applications for resident classification.
This is a general overview of the procedures and criteria used to determine resident status. It does not replace or supersede the statues or Regents' regulations which contains the detailed requirements that must be met in order to prove resident status.
For students 18 years or older, residency is determined based on their ability to document clearly and convincingly that they meet the criteria established by the statues and regulations summarized below. The residency status of students younger than 18 years is determined by their custodial parent or the parent who provided the preponderance of the support for 365 days prior to the first day of classes.
The definition of residence (K.A.R. 88-3-2 - see below) contains criteria which can be grouped together into three basic categories:
- Continuous physical residence in the state of Kansas for a year prior to the start of classes.
- Reliance upon Kansas sources of support and
- Intent to make Kansas your permanent home indefinitely.
It is possible to change classification status while attending the University, however, you will be required to document that you have met the criteria, as outlined in K.A.R. 88-3-2 for a year prior to the first day of classes. Demonstrating that you have met these criteria while attending school can be difficult. Each application is assessed relative to the regulations based on the individual's situation as presented in the application. This information is available on the KBOR website.
Kansas statute and regulations
The laws and regulations regarding residency for tuition purposes are established by the Kansas Legislature and the Kansas Board of Regents. All of the State Universities are required to follow these rules and may not establish their own. Kansas Community Colleges have different laws and regulations for residency for tuition purposes.
Kansas Board of Regents Residency Information/FAQ's
Board of Regents Policy Manual - Residency Rules and Regulations
Applications for a change of resident tuition
Applications for a change in resident tuition classification may be obtained from the Office of Recruitment and Admissions, 119 Anderson Hall, 919 Mid-Campus Drive North, or via the printable residency application form (pdf). Completed applications may be submitted to the Office of Recruitment and Admissions as early as 75 days prior and as late as 30 calendar days after to the first day of classes for the semester for which the change is being requested. All questions on the application must be answered and all supporting documentation must be attached. The documentation should be in the form of photocopies, as all information becomes the property of Kansas State University. These are confidential records and are maintained in accordance with the Kansas State University Student Records Policy.
In reviewing the application, the Office of Recruitment and Admissions will consider each individual situation as presented and assess it in relation to pertinent Kansas statutes and Board of Regents regulations. Once a decision has been made, the student will be notified in writing. The decision may be appealed.
Appeals Procedure
Students whose application for resident status has been denied may appeal the decision. An Appeal Form must be submitted no later than thirty calendar days after the decision has been made. The appeal form is included with the denial decision. To request an additional form, please email registrar@k-state.edu. The University Out-Of-State Fee Appeals Committee reviews appeals of resident classification. The decision of the Residency Appeals Committee is the final determination made by Kansas State University.