Overview
Students who are legal residents of the District of Columbia may qualify for an in-state tuition rates through the DC Residency In-State Tuition Exemption.
This exemption applies to current or returning students who meet the eligibility criteria and submit all required documentation. Students who do not qualify will be assessed out-of-state tuition rates.
Eligibility Criteria (DC Residency Requirements):
To be considered for the exemption, you must:
- Be physically present in the District of Columbia
- Provide valid documentation of DC residence (lease, deed, or notarized statement)
- Have maintained a place of abode within DC for 183 days or more
- Have filed DC income taxes for the most recent tax year (Form D-40 or D-40EZ)
- Provide a valid and unexpired DC driver’s license or government-issued non-driver ID
- Provide a valid and unexpired DC vehicle registration (if applicable)
- If you are an active-duty service member: provide current military orders or official statement confirming residence or duty station in DC
Application Opening Dates
DC resident In-State exemption application open for new students on the following dates:
- Spring 2026: Friday, July 11, 2025
- Summer 2026: Friday, January 2, 2026
- Fall 2026: Friday, January 2, 2026
DO NOT apply for a term in which you are currently NOT ENROLLED. Application submission dates for future terms will be open at a later date.
Application Process:
Step 1: Complete the DC Residency Application Form
Step 2: Upload all required documentation (If applicable):
- Lease/deed/notarized proof of residence
- Copy of DC driver’s license or non-driver ID (front & back) (if applicable)
- DC vehicle registration (if applicable)
- DC tax return (D-40 or D-40EZ) (if applicable)
- Military documentation (if applicable)
Step 3: E-Sign and submit the form electronically
Step 4: The Residency Reclassification Team will review your application.
- If approved, a state rate code tuition adjustment will be applied
- If additional information is needed, you will receive a request via email
- If denied, you will receive an email notification with the reason for denial.
Important Notes:
- Applications must be submitted prior to the start of the semester for which you are requesting the in-state tuition exemption.
- A new form must be submitted if you defer admission or take a leave of absence for one year or more.
- Multiple documents can be uploaded for each requirement (e.g., front and back of driver’s license).
Contact Information:
Questions about the DC Residency Exemption?
Email: Residency@umaryland.edu
Phone:410-706-7480