Residency Requirements
In order to qualify for Pennsylvania resident tuition, students must meet State System of Higher Education criteria as summarized below:
- Continuous residence in Pennsylvania for 12 months prior to registration.
- U.S. citizenship, formal declaration of intent to become a citizen, or admission to the United States on an immigrant visa. A nonimmigrant visa (tourist or student visa) is not proof of intent of residency.
- Pennsylvania residency by parent(s) or guardian(s) of students who are minors. The age of majority in Pennsylvania for establishing an independent residence for tuition purposes is 22. A minor may, however, prove financial emancipation and independence through clear and convincing evidence.
- A United States government employee or a member of the armed forces who was residing in Pennsylvania immediately prior to entering the government service and who has continuously maintained Pennsylvania as his or her legal residence is considered a Pennsylvania resident. Others in military service stationed in Pennsylvania are considered Pennsylvania residents.
- A student receiving a scholarship or grant dependent on residence in a state other than Pennsylvania is not considered a Pennsylvania resident.
A student who changes his or her residence from Pennsylvania to another state must give prompt written notice to the University. The University may reclassify a student if it believes he or she is no longer a Pennsylvania resident. Students may challenge a residency classification by making written petitions to the Bursar's office, Dilworth Building.