fbpx

Montana Colleges Could Tighten Rules for In-state Tuition

Montana currently allows new students to apply for residency if they have lived in state continuously for 12 months

By Tristan Scott

BOZEMAN — The Montana University System is mulling over tightening the rules for out-of-state students who want to gain in-state residency status that can cut thousands of dollars from tuition expenses.

The Bozeman Daily Chronicle reports the proposal will be presented as an informational item next week to the Montana Board of Regents.

If the regents like the idea, a formal vote on updating the residency rules would be held at a future meeting.

Montana allows new students to apply for residency if they have lived in the state continuously for 12 months and can document their intention to become residents.

The new proposed rules would require students to file a Montana tax return for all taxable income earned during the 12 months when residency is claimed. Students would also be required to document financial independence for at least 12 months.