To establish WA residency, follow these
steps:
(For specific questions, refer to the University
Residency Policies.)
Establishing Residency
Beginning one year prior to the semester you plan to apply for residency, you must ‘establish ties’ in the state of Washington. Refer to the following checklist for helpful information.
After you have lived in Washington for one year, submit a residency application (PDF) to the Graduate School, along with the following items:
- Any home purchase agreements, lease agreements, rent receipts or cancelled checks, or letters from your landlord that verify physical residence in Washington for 12 consecutive months prior to the first day of the semester in which you submit the residency application.
- A copy of your Washington State driver's license. You must obtain a Washington State driver's license at least one year prior to the semester in which you apply. If you do not drive, provide a copy of your Washington State identification card.
- Proof of any permanent full-time or part-time employment in Washington during the year prior to the semester in which you apply.
- A copy of Washington State vehicle registration issued one year prior to the semester in which you apply. (A copy of your title will not suffice). Failure to provide this will likely result in a denial of Washington residency for tuition purposes.
- A copy of your Washington voter registration issued
one year prior to the semester in which you apply.
Proof of an established a bank account in Washington.
Any other documents you have to show that you have established ties in Washington for the one year prior to the semester in which you apply (clubs, organizations, etc.). - For international students: If you are not a U.S. citizen, but hold permanent resident immigration status, temporary resident status, or refugee status, you will need to submit a copy of both sides of your Resident Alien Card, Form I-94, Temporary Resident card or other verification of your status with Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS).
For more information about residency requirements, contact Steven Burkett at the Graduate School. View additional tips for becoming a resident at our current students Residency Requirements Site.