Continuous Enrollment: Enrollment in consecutive academic terms at the same degree level, excluding summers, unless interrupted by circumstances beyond the student's control.

Degree Level: Certificate, diploma, associate, baccalaureate, graduate, or professional program.

Dependent Student: A student who cannot demonstrate financial independence from parents/guardians, as defined in 13 KAR 2:045.

Independent Student: A student who demonstrates financial independence from parents/guardians and sustains their own living and educational expenses.

Domicile: A person's true, fixed, and permanent home where they intend to remain indefinitely.

Kentucky Resident: A student classified by the institution as domiciled in and a resident of Kentucky for tuition purposes.

Nonresident: A student domiciled outside Kentucky or unable to demonstrate Kentucky residency.

Residency Determination: An institution's classification of a student as resident or nonresident for admission and tuition purposes.

PROCESS:

1. Initial Determination

  • Residency status is determined during the admissions process based on information provided.
  • Students classified as nonresidents retain that classification until reclassified by the institution.

2. Application for Review

  • Students may apply for a review of residency status once per academic term.
  • Applications must include an affidavit and supporting documentation demonstrating Kentucky domicile.

3. Appeals

  • Students may appeal residency determinations within 14 days of notification.
  • Appeals are reviewed by the University Residency Admission/Recruitment Committee, which issues a written decision within 45 days.
  • Formal hearings are available upon written request and follow due process requirements under KRS Chapter 13B.

4. Military and Veterans Provisions

  • Veterans and dependents receiving GI Bill® benefits are entitled to in-state tuition, regardless of domicile.
  • Active-duty service members stationed in Kentucky, their spouses, and dependents are considered residents.
  • Kentucky National Guard members on active duty for at least 30 days, and their dependents, also qualify as residents.

5. Nonresident Aliens and Visa Holders