Frequently Asked Questions

Students are classified as residents or non-residents based on the Savannah State University application for admission. Any information indicating ties to another state (out-of-state address, out-of-state school, out-of-state driver’s license, etc.) will result in an out-of-state classification.

A difference in fee amounts for in-state and out-of-state students exists because the tuition paid by an in-state student covers only about 25% of the total cost of the student’s education in the University System. The taxpayers of Georgia

As a state-supported institution, Savannah State University requires students to submit documented proof of residency in order to qualify for in-state tuition. Residency classification guidelines are set by the University System of Georgia and can be found online here

here is no set formula or number of supporting documents that meet the needs of every petitioning student or circumstance. The residency team reviews each petition individually and assesses the need for supporting documents based on each student’s unique circumstance. The following are the four most frequently requested supporting documents:

1. A copy of the student’s Georgia driver’s license issued on or after January 1, 2008, or a current U.S. Passport.
2. A copy of valid vehicle registration for the State of Georgia.
3. A copy of the most recent state income tax return (GA 500).
   • Dependent students will be required to provide their parent’s or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian’s GA 500; Independent students will be required to provide their own GA 500.
   • If taxes are hand written, a certified copy will be required. A certified copy may be obtained online through the Georgia Department of Revenue or by calling 1-877-423-6711/ (404) 417-6760).
4. A copy of a current lease or deed to a home or residence in Georgia.
   • Dependent students will be required to provide their parent’s lease or deed and a copy of their birth certificate or legal guardianship paperwork to link the student to the parent or legal guardian.
   • Independent students will be required to provide a copy of their lease or deed.

The process of reclassification takes approximately 3-4 weeks after all supporting documents have been received by the tuition classification officer.

No. Only students who meet the requirements and wish to be classified as an in-state student for tuition purposes need to petition.