Residency Determines Your Tuition
The law classifies you either as a Texas resident, a non-Texas resident, or an international student. To qualify as a Texas resident we just need proof that you've lived here for at least a year immediately prior to your date of registration.
If you're not a U.S. citizen, we'll need a bit more documentation:
- If you are a permanent resident of the United States you must furnish your permanent resident (green) card or I-551 passport approval stamp.
- If you've applied for residency, you must provide the receipt for your application or petition, Form I-130, I-140 or I-485.
If you're eligible to establish domicile in the U.S. you may be eligible for classification as a Texas resident. Here are the categories set by the Immigration and Naturalization Service:
- Holders of unexpired visas with A-1, A-2, A-3, E-1, E-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, G-5, H-1B, H-4 (dependent of H-1B only), I, K-1, K-2, L-1a, L-1b, L-2, O-1, O-3 (dependent of O-1 only), R-1, R-2, V and NATO 6, 7 classifications.
- Those classified by the INS as an asylee, parolee, refugee, permanent resident, conditional permanent resident or a temporary resident holding a I-688, I-688A or I-688B Temporary Resident card that has not expired.
Undocumented Immigrants
Undocumented immigrants who meet our admission requirements can enroll, but normally will be subject to the non-Texas resident tuition rate. You may qualify for the Texas resident rate if you meet all four of these qualifications:
- You graduated from high school or got your GED in Texas.
- You've resided in Texas with a parent or court appointed guardian for at least three years prior to the date you graduated high school or received your GED.
- You registered as an entering student not earlier than the fall 2001 term.
- You provide an affidavit stating that you will file an application to become a permanent resident as soon as you're eligible.