NC Residency

The NC Residency Determination Service (RDS) is an online application to determine if you qualify for in-state tuition and state financial aid.

How do I do It?

Step 1: Go to the NC Residency home page and select "Complete Residency Determination"

Step 2: Use your CFNC login to access the application

Step 3: Begin answering the questions provided.

  • You can save your progress and complete at a later time if necessary

  • Once you begin you will have 25 days to complete it

  • If you do not complete the application in 25 days, it will be deleted and you will have to start over.

Once you have completed your Residency Determination you will see a page similar to the one below.

You will need your Residency Certification Number (RCN) for your college applications.

What Do I Need?

  • Social Security Numbers for you and your parent(s)

  • Driver's License number for you and your parent(s)

  • Parent tax filing information

What does this all mean?

  • Resident: If you are classified as a resident, it means you will receive state financial aid and you qualify for in-state tuition.

  • Non-Resident: If you are classified as a non-resident, you will not be eligible for state financial aid and you will have to pay out-of-state tuition.

Please be aware that you may appeal your residency status, but you must do so immediately.