Reclassification for In-State Tuition

The below information has been made available to provide a general understanding of the reclassification process and general regulations/requirements. If you have questions or need additional information to complete the application, please email residency@vt.edu to connect with a reclassification specialist. We are unable to provide legal advice or give a reclassification decision without a complete application.

Eligibility for an institution's in-state tuition rate is governed by §23.1-5 of the Code of Virginia. The provisions of §23.1-5 of the Code of Virginia are set forth, defined, and discussed in the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia Domicile Guidelines (pdf version). Students applying to Virginia Tech will go through a domicile review process for initial classification. A student may seek reclassification of their initial tuition classification, but residence or physical presence in Virginia primarily to attend Virginia Tech does not entitle students to an institution’s in-state tuition rate. Transfer students should be aware that classification of in-state status at a prior Virginia public college or university does not guarantee classification of in-state status at Virginia Tech (SCHEV Guidelines, PDF, page 8). Domicile should be established BEFORE one enters the university. The burden is on the applicant to demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that Virginia is the applicant's domicile and that any prior state of domicile has been abandoned. Further, if a student enters Virginia Tech classified as an out-of-state student, they must present clear and convincing evidence to rebut the presumption that they are residing in the state primarily to attend school.

Important Information on the Reclassification Process

• An application must first be completed to be considered for reclassification for in-state tuition. 
• An appointment or interview is NOT required to determine your domiciliary status for reclassification cases. However, you may be contacted to clarify information and/or provide additional information.
• If you have questions about the application, laws, or process and want to speak with a staff member, you should email residency@vt.edu. 
• Please allow a minimum of 30 working days after your application is complete for processing.
• Students seeking reclassification to in-state status must be prepared to pay the out-of-state tuition rate unless they are notified in writing that their status has been reclassified to in-state according to the Code of Virginia.