Student Accounts

New York Residency

SUNY New Paltz Guide to Resident Tuition Policy

Many parents, families and students express interest about the requirements for New York State resident tuition at the State University of New York. The difference between the resident and non-resident tuition rates is significant, and the requirements can be complex. So, please read the information below and contact the Office of Student Accounts if you have further questions. Each individual SUNY campus is responsible for determining a student's residency status and tuition charges, and the campus determination is final.

This policy summarizes and clarifies the State University of New York’s (University) definition of residency for purposes of determining eligibility for in-state tuition at University campuses.

An emancipated U.S. citizen or permanent resident whose domicile has been in the State of New York for a period of at least one year immediately preceding the time of registration for any period of attendance shall be considered a New York State resident for the purpose of determining the tuition rate payable for such period. Generally, an unemancipated student's state of residency is considered the same as that of his or her custodial parent(s) or legal guardian(s). All other persons shall be presumed to be out-of-state residents for such purpose, unless domiciliary status is demonstrated in accordance with guidelines adopted by the University and in 8 NYCRR §302 (Tuition and Fees). Certain non-residents and holders of non-immigrant visas may qualify for in-state tuition, as discussed in section V below.

 

Policy

Students enrolled at University campuses are considered New York State residents if they have established their domicile in New York State. A domicile is a fixed, permanent home to which an individual intends to return whenever absent. Determination of a student’s domicile will be based on the factors set forth in the "Guidelines for Determining Residence/Eligibility for Resident Tuition" section below.

Persons domiciled in New York State for twelve months or more:

Emancipated individuals who have maintained their domicile in New York State for a period of at least twelve months prior to registration shall be considered New York State residents. Persons who have been physically present in New York State for at least twelve months but have maintained a fixed, permanent and principal residence outside of New York State shall not be considered New York State residents.

Persons domiciled in New York State for less than twelve months:

Emancipated individuals who have maintained their domicile in New York State for a period of less than twelve months prior to registration shall be presumed to be out-of-state residents. These individuals may challenge this presumption by presenting sufficient evidence to prove that they have made New York State their fixed, permanent and principal home. (See the "Proof of Domicile" list below)

 

Applying for New York State Residency  

Guidelines for Determining Residence/Eligibility for Resident Tuition