Residency Information
Owens sets your tuition rate based on your residency status. Here’s what you need to know—and how to update your status if necessary.
How Owens Determines Residency
Your residency status (in-state or out-of-state) is established during the admissions process. If you qualify, you can submit a petition to change your residency status. You’ll see your residency status on your acceptance letter and in your personal information in Ozone.
Review Residency Classification Definitions (PDF)
Request a Change to Ohio Residency Status
If the Records Office determines that you are not a resident of Ohio, you’ll be charged out-of-state tuition rates in accordance with the Ohio Department of Higher Education Residency Rule 3333-1-10 and the College Residency Determination Policy (PDF).
However, you may be eligible for in-state tuition rates. To get started, review the different residency categories to see if you qualify (PDF). If so, you must file a Petition for Change to Ohio Residency Status form by the deadline:
- Spring term: Apply by April 15
- Summer term: Apply by July 15
- Fall term: Apply by November 15
Please note: If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date will be the following business day.
After you submit your petition, the residency officer in the Owens Records Office will follow a review process to finalize your residency status.
Download Petition for Ohio Residency Form (PDF)
In-State Tuition for Indiana Students
Owens Community College has a reciprocity agreement with the Indiana Commission for Higher Education that allows for in-state tuition and fee rates for specific majors:
If you live in Indiana and attend Owens for one of these programs, you must apply for the reciprocity program by the deadline date:
- Spring term: Apply by April 15
- Summer term: Apply by July 15
- Fall term: Apply by November 15
Please note: If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date will be the following business day.
Download the Petition for Indiana Resident Reciprocity Fee Exemption Form (PDF)
Selective Service Registration
If you’re a male student between 18 and 26, you must register for Selective Service to qualify for in-state tuition and financial aid.
If you don’t register:
- You’ll be charged out-of-state tuition
- You may lose access to financial aid
To register, go to Selective Service System, call (847) 688-6888 or visit your local post office.
International Students (Not F-1)
Most international students use an F-1 visa, but other types may also allow you to study at Owens. These include:
- J-1 (Exchange Visitor): For cultural and educational exchange programs
- M-1 (Student Visa): For vocational or non-academic training