Non Resident-Status, Wis. Stats § 36.27

How Is Residency For Tuition Purposes Determined?

Residency for tuition purposes is based upon standards set forth in Wisconsin Statutes 36.27(2), which govern resident status for tuition purposes. To read the statute, and for other resources, visit http://www.uwsa.edu/acss/residency/

(Note: Under Federal law some active duty members of the armed forces and their families may be eligible for resident tuition as outlined in 20 USC 1015d. This brochure focuses on the Wisconsin laws governing resident status for tuition purposes.)

These standards are different from standards used to determine residency for voting, paying taxes, and other purposes. Therefore, it is important that you understand the Wisconsin statute governing resident status for tuition purposes and how it may apply to you.

There is usually enough information in your application for admission to a University of Wisconsin (UW) System institution for a residency advisor to determine if you qualify as a resident for tuition purposes. In some cases, you may be asked to provide further information to determine your eligibility for resident tuition.

In general, to be eligible for resident tuition, you must be a bona fide resident of Wisconsin during the 12 months prior to enrollment.

Individuals who enter and remain in Wisconsin primarily for educational purposes do not qualify as bona fide residents for tuition purposes even after living in Wisconsin a year or more. If you do not qualify as a Wisconsin resident, you will be classified as a nonresident and pay nonresident tuition. The nonresident classification will continue in effect until you overcome the presumption that you are here primarily for educational purposes.

If you are already enrolled at a UW institution as a nonresident, and believe your classification should be changed to resident, please contact the Office of Admissions and New Student Services at (262) 595-2355.

Have more questions? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions (PDF) page for more information.