I was accepted into UT for Mechanical Engineering, but because I’m not from Texas, I am unable to pay the out of state tuition. I would really like to go because of its good program, so is there any way to get in state tuition after the first year? Is it possible to become a Texas resident and then pay in state tuition? Any experiences/comments would help.
You can become a Texas resident by working in Texas for a year before you attend school.
If you really want to attend UT, it’s not a bad option.
@MBee555 You should contact UT regarding establishing residency. Texas is one of few states with well sought after public colleges that allow a student to establish residency after starting as an OOS. From UT website:
https://admissions.utexas.edu/residency#fndtn-residency-establishing-domicile-requirements
@Mbee555 It’s possible but difficult. My son succeeded back in 2011, but they’ve tightened the rules since then. You can call UT and ask to talk to the residency people - they are very helpful and won’t mind telling you what you would need to do.
Please note the following from the link: “If you are independent for tax purposes, you may gain resident status if you establish domicile in the state. If your parent(s) claim you as a dependent on their federal income tax return, they must establish domicile in the state for you to claim residency.”
That means your parents can’t provide more than half of your support, so it’s a barrier. The rule specifically mentions PARENTS, so if your grandparents can help out, that’s a possibility. When you fill out the form, you have to be honest. You’d be in big trouble if UT discovers you’re stretching the truth.