Residency

North Carolina Residency Determination Service -- NCResidency.org

What it is:

  • An online form that determines whether or not you can be classified as a resident of North Carolina. An algorithm gives you an initial decision and humans will go back to verify your application.

When to complete:

  • ASAP. The RDS application must be submitted before you submit any college applications.

Why it's important:

  • This form is required to apply to any college in North Carolina and receive in-state tuition. This can save you thousands of dollars when paying for college. When you complete it, you will receive an RCN (Residency Certification Number). This number will need to be submitted as part of your applications to schools in NC.

How to complete:

  • Visit NCResidency.org and log in with your CFNC account. You can complete this application at home or bring the information to school and fill it out with Mr. Hines. See below for more instructions.

Materials Required for RDS

Please note: Please have everything together before you begin the application. Once you move forward, you cannot go back to fix mistakes and will have to submit an appeal on your decision.

To complete RDS, please have these materials ready:

  • You and your parent's/guardian's social security numbers.

  • Your parent's or guardian's date of birth.

  • Your parent's/guardian's driver's license number or state ID number.

  • You and your parent's/guardian's alien registration numbers, USCIS number, or tax identification number **if applicable**

  • Find out if your parent or guardian filed taxes in the past 2 years in NC.

How to Access RDS

Visit NCResidency.org

Click on "Complete Residency Determination." This will bring you to the login screen.

Sign in using your CFNC Account.

If you cannot access your CFNC account, see Mr. Hines. He can help you recover your account info.

Additional Info

Here are a few things to keep in mind while you work on RDS:

  • Have all of your materials prepared ahead of time. Once you advance in the application, there is no back button.

  • RDS will sometimes ask for verification of info. Make sure to check your email regularly to check your application status.

  • This process can be tricky. Please get in touch with Mr. Hines (dylanhines@pamlicoschools.org) or see him in room 301 if you have any questions.


Download the Handout!

RDS_FAFSA Handout.pdf