RDS

Website: https://www.ncresidency.org/

The Residency Determination Service (RDS) was established as the centralized service for determining residency for students. This service enables a student to use one residency determination for when applying to multiple North Carolina public colleges and universities and to demonstrate residency for state aid programs consideration at all (public and private) North Carolina colleges and universities. This needs to be completed before college applications can be submitted!

Before you begin information: 

RDS Information for Students Webinar

RDS Basics for High School Students / Servicio de Determinacion de Residencia Reconsideracion y Apelacion

RDS Basics for Parents / Servicio de Determinacion de Residencia Conceptos Basicos para Padres

Use this worksheet from the Emily K Center to help gather all the necessary information to complete the RDS:    English Spanish 

PLEASE NOTE: All requested documentation is required and you can not skip questions or guess on questions. This will result in either nonresident status or a delay in residency determination.

Once residency status is determined you will receive an RCN.  What is the Residency Certification Number (RCN)?

The Residency Certification Number ("RCN") is a unique identifier that RDS assigns to you when you begin the RDS online interview. The RCN is unique to you. It provides confirmation that you have completed the RDS residency determination process. When you apply for admission at any NC college, the college may ask for your RCN in order to request data from RDS concerning your residency status.