Another important function of the Office of International Services is the review process for student petitions to obtain Georgia residency status. Any questions concerning residency status can be answered by calling 770-499-3536.

Under guidelines established by the Board of Regents, Kennesaw State University is required to determine the residency classification for fee payment purposes of all applicants/students of the University.

Individuals who enter the institution as non-resident students, but who wish to later qualify as legal residents, must fill out a Petition for Georgia Residence Classification form. A student classified as a nonresident who believes that he or she is entitled to be reclassified as a legal resident may petition the Residence Committee for a change in status. The purpose of the petition is to allow the applicant/student the opportunity to provide further information regarding his/her claim to resident status. The applicant/student must provide official documentation showing that he/she has been a legal resident of Georgia for a period of at least twelve consecutive months immediately preceding the date of registration.

The following documents are required evidence to establish legal residence:

• Copy of Georgia Drivers License
• Georgia Vehicle Registration Form
• Georgia State Income Tax Return Form 500, most recent tax year
• Letter from Employer, on letterhead, verifying current employment and employment for past 12 months
• Housing Information (Warranty Deed or OFF CAMPUS Apartment or Home Rental Agreement) showing 12 months of occupation
• Georgia Voter Registration Card

All documentation submitted must be dated to clearly support that the twelve-month, required waiting period has been satisfied. The petition must be filed no later than 60 days after the semester begins in order for the student to be considered for reclassification for that semester. If the petition is granted, reclassification will not be retroactive to prior semesters.

Forms/Applications:

Economic Advantage

KSU Petition for Residency Application

Non-Resident Student Waiver

Public School Waiver Form

Recently Separated Military Personnel

For further information regarding residency classification, please refer to the 2007-2008 KSU Undergraduate Catalog for the definition of legal residents.