Residency Information

Rules: http://www.bridgew.edu/Fiscal/residencyrules.cfm
Form: Petition for In-State Classification (PDF) 

In-State Tuition Eligibility Form Instructions

Residency Classification

All current out-of-state students who wish to appeal their residency classification to determine eligibility for in-state tuition must read this document in its entirety, submit the appropriate documentation in support of your request, and complete and sign the In-State Tuition Eligibility Form. If you are under 18 years of age, your parent or legal guardian should follow the same procedure. This form along with your documentation may then be forwarded to Bridgewater State University, Office of Fiscal Affairs, Boyden Hall Rm. 109, 131 Summer Street, Bridgewater, MA 02325 for further review.

Please submit the following:

             1. Proof of residency in a Massachusetts domicile – submit a copy of a lease, purchase/sales agreement, or deed. A statement from a landlord or property owner, clearly specifying your dates of occupancy is also acceptable. The evidence submitted must cover at least a one-year period prior to the beginning of the semester for which reclassification is sought. Ownership in a summer or temporary residence of any nature does not qualify. Living with a relative who is not a parent, spouse or legal guardian does not qualify.

             2. Evidence of marriage to a Massachusetts resident - The 12-month residency period is waived for those students who have married a Massachusetts resident or who are present in the Commonwealth under military orders. You must still produce evidence of domicile and eligibility for a waiver. In case of marriage, both you and your spouse must sign the affidavit and the spouse must prove evidence of at least one year period prior to the beginning of the semester for which classification is sought. For military status a copy of the military orders showing entry to service from Massachusetts or orders to be stationed in Massachusetts.

             3. Copies of parent's and student’s Federal and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Income Tax Forms – This is for the period covered for the basis of this appeal (i.e. in most cases the recent tax return filed last April). This evidence is crucial since it not only provides evidence of residency but also documents your employment and financial support. If such tax forms were not filed, then a full written explanation as to why is required along with evidence of employment and complete disclosure of your financial support and its sources. If you were tax exempt then you must provide a full explanation of how you were able to support yourself on limited funds. If you are claimed as a dependent on your parents’ tax return, your legal domicile for this purpose will be that of your parents, regardless of your age.

             4. Written statement of residency – Since being present in the Commonwealth solely for the purpose of carrying on a course of study does not qualify you for in-state residency you must provide a written statement citing your reasons for moving to Massachusetts. It is important that this statement provide clear and compelling reasons for your presence in the state.

             5. Resident alien information (if applicable) – Resident aliens holding permanent status must provide copies of their permanent resident alien card (both sides) or the paperwork for proof that an application has been filed.

             6. Other, less weighty evidence may also be submitted if the student feels it will strengthen his/her case such as automobile registration, excise    tax receipts, utility bills, voter registration, an operator’s license or other licenses issued by the Commonwealth. The University reserves the right to require additional information when warranted.