Residency Information for Current Students

Understanding Your Residency Status

As a current student at Western Colorado University, understanding your residency status is crucial, as it directly impacts your tuition rates. If you were initially classified as a non-resident but believe you now qualify for in-state tuition, you have the opportunity to petition for a change in your residency status.

Establishing Colorado Residency

To qualify for in-state tuition, you must establish a Colorado domicile for 12 continuous months prior to the first day of classes for the semester you're petitioning. A "domicile" refers to your true, fixed, and permanent home and legal residence.

Physical Presence
Intent

Evidence of Physical Presence

To qualify for in-state tuition, you must show you’ve lived in Colorado for at least 12 continuous months. Documents should list your name, address, and dates of residence. Gaps in time or extended stays out of state may affect your eligibility.

Acceptable proof includes:

  • Lease agreements or rent receipts

  • Homeownership documents

  • Notarized statements from landlords

Evidence of Intent

You must show that Colorado is your permanent home, not just where you attend school. The more ties you establish, the stronger your case for residency.

Demonstrate your intent to make Colorado your permanent home by:

  • Obtaining a Colorado driver’s license or ID

  • Registering your vehicle in Colorado

  • Registering to vote in Colorado

  • Filing Colorado state income taxes as a resident

  • Securing permanent, full-time employment in Colorado

  • Changing your permanent address on all pertinent records

Petitioning for In-State Tuition Classification

If you believe you've met the residency requirements, you can petition for in-state tuition classification. Please note that residency status changes are not applied retroactively. Follow the steps below:

Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4

Obtain the Petition Form

Contact the Office of Financial Services to request the “Petition for In-State Tuition Classification” form.

Complete the Form

Provide all required information and gather supporting documentation that proves both physical presence and intent. Incomplete petitions will not be reviewed.

Submit the Petition

Send the completed form and documentation to the Tuition Classification Officer by the published deadline for the semester you’re petitioning. Petitions submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.

Await Decision

Petitions are reviewed within 2–4 weeks. You’ll be notified of the decision by mail.

Exceptions to the 12-Month Domicile Requirement

Certain situations may exempt you from the standard 12-month domicile requirement:

  • Four-Year Rule: If your parents had Colorado domicile for four or more years and moved out after your junior year of high school, and you enroll at a Colorado institution within three years and six months, you may qualify.

  • Colorado High School Attendance: Students (excluding nonimmigrant aliens) who attended a Colorado high school for at least three years immediately preceding graduation or earning a GED, and who enroll in a Colorado institution within 12 months, may be eligible.

  • Military Exceptions: Active-duty military members stationed in Colorado, their dependents, and certain veterans may qualify for in-state tuition regardless of domicile duration.

  • American Indian Tribes: Members of federally recognized American Indian tribes with historical ties to Colorado may be eligible for in-state tuition.