Domicile

Generally, state financial aid programs and in-state tuition are reserved for Virginia domiciliaries (that is, residents of Virginia). As one of Virginia's public institutions, William and Mary must adhere to the domiciliary requirements set forth by Virginia law. This information will introduce students and parents to key concepts concerning domicile.  Please contact our office if you have any specific questions about your domiciliary status.

• Virginia Domicile Law - Code of Virginia
• Virginia Domicile Guidelines - Virginia Administrative Code
• Domicile Resources - State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV)

Domicile at William & Mary

Application for Virginia In-state Tuition Privileges [PDF]

All determinations of in-state tuition eligibility are dictated by the regulations set forth by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) Domicile Guidelines.

Reduced tuition charges are subsidized by the taxpayers of Virginia. Eligibility is governed by Section 23-7.4 of the Code of Virginia. To be eligible for in-state status, Virginia must be the present, fixed home of the individual to which he/she returns following temporary absences and at which he/she intends to stay indefinitely. Residence or physical presence in Virginia primarily to attend the College does not entitle you to in-state tuition rates.

An individual must demonstrate residence in Virginia and an intent to remain in Virginia indefinitely to establish domicile in Virginia. After meeting the requirements to establish domicile, a person must continue to be domiciled in Virginia for at least 12 months preceding the first day of classes of the semester in which you wish to be considered as a resident. Your primary purpose in moving to Virginia must have been to establish yourself as a resident of Virginia. All applicants for admission to The College of William and Mary, both new and re-entry, who believe they are qualified for Virginia in-state tuition rates, must complete an Application for Virginia In-state Tuition Privileges.

Credit hour surcharge

Students who qualify for in-state tuition privileges must pay a surcharge (generally calculated at out-of-state tuition rates) for courses taken after completion of 125% of the credit hours required for the degree.  For example, for a bachelors degree requiring 120 credit hours, this would mean that any credits taken beyond 150 (or 125% of 120) would be charged at the out-of-state rate.  Certain exceptions apply, including AP/IB credits; see Section 23-7.4:F of the Code of Virginia for more information.

Application Deadline

The deadline for the application is either the admission application deadline, or the first day of classes of the semester for which in-state status is sought, whichever is earlier. No change in status will be granted for a semester in progress. Applications are available from the various admission offices as well as online. Any questions about domicile eligibility should be directed to the Registrar's Office in Blow Memorial Hall or [[smlave,via email]].