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Domicile Requirements

All applicants for admission to Northern Virginia Community College claiming entitlement to in-state tuition privileges are required by the Code of Virginia, 23-7.4, to complete an Application for Virginia In-State Tuition Rates form.

To be eligible for in-state tuition, you must be domiciled in Virginia for a minimum of one year before the first official day of classes (excluding restricted INS classifications). Domicile is defined as your "present, fixed home where you return following temporary absences and where you intend
to stay indefinitely." In essence, domicile has two parts, and you must meet both to qualify for in-state tuition. You must reside in Virginia, and you must intend to keep this as your home indefinitely.

As a dependent, you have the same domicile as your parents or legal guardian. You are presumed to be a dependent of your parent or legal guardian if you are under the age of 24, unless you (1) are a veteran or active duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces; (2) are a graduate or professional student (beyond a bachelor's degree); (3) are married; (4) are a ward of the court or were a ward of the court until age 18; (5) have no adoptive or legal guardian when both parents are deceased; (6) have legal dependents other than a spouse; or (7) are able to present clear and convincing evidence that you are financially self-sufficient. Children and the dependent spouse of a Virginia domiciliary may be eligible for in-state tuition. Supporting documents and additional information may be required.

The College will review many factors when determining your domicile. Following are some examples:

1. Residence during the past year prior to the first official day of classes.

2. State to which income taxes are filed or paid.

3. Driver's license.

4. Motor vehicle registration.

5. Voter registration.

6. Employment.

7. Property ownership.

8. Sources of financial support.

9. Other social or economic ties with Virginia and other states.

However, the presence of any or all of these factors does not automatically result in Virginia domicile. The factors used to support a case for in-state tuition benefits must have existed for one year before the first official day of classes. Contact the Admission and Records Office at your home
campus for additional information.

Last Edited: July 17, 2006
Any questions on Admissions & Records email Gert Heslin