Do I become a resident while studying in the USA?

I'm curious if attending college in the USA grants any kind of residency status. Does it affect tuition or financial aid eligibility? What's the general process of becoming a resident here?

Studying in the U.S. as an international student does not automatically grant residency status. While attending higher education, an international student typically holds an F-1 visa, which would classify as non-resident alien status. This designation persists whether you are studying at a graduate or undergraduate level.

Being classified as a non-resident does certainly impact tuition costs and financial aid eligibility. For tuition, non-resident students are often assessed higher costs than residents. This is especially true if you are attending a public institution, like a state university, where tuition is significantly cheaper for in-state residents.

Regarding financial aid, non-residents are generally not eligible for federal financial aid, but they might be eligible for university-based aid. So, it's essential to check the individual college's policies on this. For example, at some institutions, there are specific scholarship or financial aid programs targeted towards international or non-resident students.

Concerning residency, the process is quite complex and the requirements vary by state. Generally, the students must prove they are in the state for reasons other than just attending school and have the intent to make the state their permanent residence. This often involves having a U.S. bank account, driver's license, voter registration, and paying state taxes. Note that establishing residency for in-state tuition purposes is a separate process from obtaining a green card or becoming a U.S. citizen.

It's recommended to consult with an immigration attorney or the international students' office at the college for more precise information about your particular circumstances.