Understanding Washington Residency

Topics

Applying for Change in Residency

Other Forms for Tuition Reduction

Additional Resources

Overview

In order for University of Washington students to be considered residents for tuition purposes, they first must be able to prove that they are U.S. citizens, have U.S. permanent resident cards, or have a qualifying visa (A, E, G, H1, I, K or L).

To be classified or reclassified as residents, for tuition and fee purposes, students must establish a bona fide domicile in the state of Washington primarily for purposes other than education for the period of one year immediately prior to classification as residents.

Nonresident students who are enrolled for more than 6 credits a quarter will be presumed to be in the state of Washington for primarily educational purposes. Such period of enrollment shall not be counted toward the establishment of a bona fide domicile of one year in this state unless the students prove they have, in fact, established a bona fide domicile in this state primarily for purposes other than education.

    Top 5 Residency Questions

    1. How do I get residency in Washington?
    2. Where is the residence questionnaire application?
    3. I am a Washington resident, but went to school out of state. What do I do?
    4. When is the deadline to submit the application?
    5. How much is in-state tuition?

    Residency Guideline Sources

    Washington state residency guidelines are outlined in legislation. For a more detailed explanation of residence classification, please use the following links to read the relevant Revised Code of Washington and Washington Administrative Code:

    Application for Washington State Residence Deadlines

    Applications must be submitted no later than the 30th day of the quarter in accordance with WAC 250-18-025.

    Autumn 2022 Winter 2023 Spring 2023 Summer 2023
    10/27/2022 2/1/2023 4/25/2023 7/19/2023

    How and when is a student’s residency status determined? 

    A student’s initial residence classification is set during the admissions process based upon information provided on the student’s admission application.  Often, residency is more than simply being present in the state. If a student is classified as a non-resident when they are admitted and believes that they qualify as a resident for tuition purposes, they must file a residency application with the Office of the Registrar for verification. 

     There are three ways a student may qualify to apply for residency for tuition purposes as a bona fide resident. Click on the application type for additional information about requirements and how to apply. (Military connected students who do not meet the below should review options for military residency).

    1. Residency Affidavit – for students who have a high school diploma (or equivalent) and have maintained a primary residence, for purposes other than postsecondary education, in Washington for at least one year prior to starting at the University of Washington Tacoma.   
    2. Residence Questionnaire: Financially Dependent Students – for financially dependent students with a parent who has met Washington residency requirements.
    3. Residence Questionnaire: Financially Independent Students – for financially independent students who have met Washington residency requirements.  

    Each form has its own requirements.  Students should file the application that best fits their circumstances.