Domicile
Eligibility for In-State Tuition Rates
To be considered for in-state tuition, students must meet the residency requirements set forth by the Code of Virginia.
To qualify for in-state tuition based on domicile, a student or in the case of a dependent student, their parent, spouse or legal guardian must demonstrate through clear and convincing evidence that they have been domiciled in Virginia for at least 12 continuous months immediately prior to the first day of classes.
Exceptions:
- High School Completion Exception: All students who meet the criteria are eligible for in-state tuition regardless of citizenship or immigration status, including U.S. Citizens (with the exception of F, H3, J, or M visas). See DACA, Undocumented, and Pending Asylum for more information.
- Military Exceptions: see Active Duty Military, Veterans, and Military Dependents.
- Other Exceptions: See SCHEV Domicile Guidelines: Addendum C – Summary of In-State or Reduced Tuition Provisions.
Information regarding the process for making Domicile determination can also be found on the SCHEV In-State Residency website, and SCHEV’s Guidelines for Determining Domicile and Eligibility for In-State Tuition Rates.
Admissions Domicile Decisions
Domicile is initially determined by the Office of Admissions when a student applies to Mason.
Prior to submitting your intent to enroll, all communications regarding domicile classification should be made to the Office of Admissions.
If a student fails to submit the Application for In-State rates, or answers NO (they don’t believe they are eligible), they are automatically classified as out-of-state.
Students who would like to request a tuition reclassification can submit an appeal with the Office of the University Registrar. Please follow the instructions for Domicile Appeals
Disclaimer
This web site and accompanying materials have been prepared by the George Mason University Office of the University Registrar for informational purposes only, and may not be construed as "Legal Advice" or an official determination of eligibility for in-state tuition by the Office of the University Registrar.
Because this web site is not intended to be a determination of eligibility for in-state tuition, the reader should not rely on any information provided in this website as such.
It is incumbent on the student to apply for change in domiciliary status on becoming eligible for such change. Changes in domiciliary status shall only be granted prospectively from the date such application is received.