North Carolina Residency Determination Services -- ncresidency.org

What is RDS?

  • An online form that determines whether or not you can be classified as a resident of North Carolina. If you are considered a resident, you will be able to receive in-state tuition at NC schools.

When should you complete RDS?

  • ASAP. RDS application must be completed before any college applications are submitted.

Why is it important?

  • It 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 a Residency Certification Number (RCN). This number will need to be submitted as part of your applications to schools in NC. Community colleges and four-year schools require this number.

How do I complete RDS?

  • Visit ncresidency.org and log in with your CFNC account. Many students have previously created a CFNC account. If you do not remember your username and password for CFNC, select "Forgot Username" or contact Ms. Peters. If you do not have an account, create one.

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 Ms. Peters. She can help you recover your account info.

Additional Info