Why am I being charged out-of-state tuition? How do I change my residency status?

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Kentucky Resident status has a direct impact on the amount of tuition a student pays at KCTCS. Tuition and charges are based on whether a student is a Kentucky resident, non-Kentucky resident, or a resident of a contiguous county of a contiguous state. 

The policy for Kentucky resident status is determined by Council on Post-secondary education but is enforced at each college.

Determination for Residency

In-state tuition is determined by a student's response to residency questions. There are many factors used to determine residency status. Please contact your KCTCS college Admissions office for more information.

  1. Have you lived in Kentucky for the last 12 months?
  2. Do you receive financial support from anyone living outside of Kentucky?
  3. Does either or both of your parents live in Kentucky?
  4. Are you a U.S. Citizen?

Based on the answers to these questions, KCTCS can to determine the domicile of a student for tuition purposes. For undocumented students and students who have DACA (deferred action for childhood arrivals), they must also complete a short or long residency form as determined by the KCTCS college they are attending. The form must provide information pertaining to the student's high school graduation or GED completion. Students who completed high school in Kentucky or received their GED in KY generally are eligible for in-state tuition. 

Appealing Residency Status

A student who has been assessed non-Kentucky resident tuition rates can apply for a change in status by completing their college's Application for Residency and providing all required documentation. Students must complete the application and provide all supporting documents within 30 days of the first day of class for consideration. Applications arriving after 30 days may be considered for the next term.

Should you have questions or issues with your residency, you may contact the office below to discuss this further.

*All online is the same rate as non residents 

Residency Status questions or issues should be referred to the college Admissions Office.

808 Monticello Street
Somerset, Kentucky 42501
Phone: 606-679-8501

Appeals and Review Process
Depending on the student's situation, they may have to complete a short or long form to appeal their residency status. Students who have been assessed as non-Kentucky residents may apply for residency status by completing the Residency Application.

Appeal decisions will be made within 5 business days from the receipt of the last requested document. Time frames may be longer during peak seasons (July-August & December-January).

(Records and Registration > Records)

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Article ID: 25877
Created
Mon 7/6/26 1:51 PM
Modified
Tue 8/18/26 11:00 AM