Residency Requirements

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The State of Texas requires each student to sign an affidavit certifying his or her legal residence at the time of enrollment. The responsibility for registering under the proper residence classification belongs with the student. Any question concerning the right to classification as a resident of Texas or the College of the Mainland District must be clarified before enrolling.

Determining Residency Status

Residency status is determined in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Determining Residency Status, published by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and pursuant to Title 3, Texas Education Code. Detailed information concerning these requirements is available in the Office of Admissions and Records.

Texas State Residency Verification

Students must live in Texas at least 12 months prior to registration to be classified as state residents. The state auditor requires additional documentation to support the oath of residency. The following documents are acceptable for verification:

  • Driver's license (issued at least 12 months prior)
  • Voter registration card
  • Property purchase documentation
  • Rental agreement
  • Utility bills

Residency Classifications

This classification applies to individuals who are legal residents of the College of the Mainland District and the State of Texas. To be considered a legal resident of the College of the Mainland District, a person must reside within the boundaries of one of the following local school districts:

This classification applies to students who are legal residents of the State of Texas but do not reside within the specific boundaries of the College of the Mainland District.

Texas law defines a nonresident student of Texas as:

  • A U.S. citizen less than 18 years of age who lives away from his or her family, and whose family has not resided in Texas for the 12 months preceding the date of registration.
  • A student 18 years of age or older who resides out of state, or who has not been a legal resident of the state for the 12 months subsequent to his or her 18th birthday, or for the 12 months immediately preceding the date of registration.
This classification applies to noncitizens who cannot be classified as residents of Texas or the United States under standard frameworks. Any question concerning international student residency should be referred directly to the Office of Admissions and Records.

Updating Student Records

Students can update their contact or residency information by filling out and submitting the official documentation form:

Form Download

Office of Admissions & Records

Admissions Office:

Doyle Family Administration Building
Suite 111-02A

Admissions Hours:

  • Monday–Tuesday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday–Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Admissions
409-933-8264
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