Arizona Residency for Tuition Purposes

Arizona’s public universities are supported by Arizona taxpayers, which is why residents receive a lower tuition rate. Residency decisions are based on Arizona Board of Regents Policy (ABOR), which is part of state law, and the Residency Office is required to follow those guidelines.

If you’ve been classified as a non-resident, you can still apply for reclassification. The only way to change your residency status is by meeting one of the requirements.

Residency Navigator

There are several ways a student can be classified as an Arizona resident for tuition purposes. To find out which option might apply to you, use the residency navigator tool. It will help identify if there is a petition or affidavit that fits your situation. Each request is reviewed individually, and it is important to know that financial hardship cannot be considered in the decision.

Petition and affadavits

If you’re looking to become an Arizona resident for tuition purposes, visit the petitions and affidavits forms. Be sure to read the instructions closely before filling out a petition or affidavit.

This process can be a bit complex, and while these steps are here to help, they may not cover everything. It’s a good idea to do your own research and reach out with any questions before you submit anything. We’re here to help you navigate it.

Students with a U.S. visa

Students with U.S. visas or a pending permanent resident application may be eligible for residency reclassification. View eligibility and requirements.

Residency deadlines

Here are the key dates for residency status changes for fall 2025:

Deadline to submit a residency reclassification appeal (if denied): Friday, October 10, 2025.

Final deadline to submit residency status change forms: Friday, September 5, 2025.

Deadline for a decision by the first day of 2026 spring classes: All forms and supporting documents submitted by Monday, July 21, 2025.

Questions

If you would like to discuss your circumstance or eligibility, contact our office at 928-523-6464 or by email at Residency@nau.edu.