Glossary of Residency Terms

Census date: The Census Date is the date defined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) on which an official and final enrollment count is recorded for submission to THECB and used to determine state funding for institutions. The length of the term determines the actual day on which the Census Date falls.

Dependent: An individual who is (A) less than 18 years of age and has not been emancipated by marriage or court order; or (B) is eligible to be claimed as a dependent of a parent of the person for purposes of determining the parent’s income tax liability under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. 

Domicile: The principal, permanent physical residence of an individual. 

Eligible for Permanent Resident Status: A person who has filed an I-485 application for permanent residency and has been issued a fee/filing receipt or notice of action by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) showing that their I-485 has been reviewed and not yet rejected. 

Establishing Domicile in Texas: Physically residing in Texas with the intent to maintain domicile in Texas for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the census date of the term of enrollment, allowing for documented temporary absences. 

Gainful Employment: Employment that provides income and either covers at least half of a person’s tuition and living expenses, or averages at least 20 hours per week. Self-employment, living off one’s earnings, or relying primarily on public assistance may qualify. Employment tied to student status - such as work-study, stipends, fellowships, or teaching/research assistantships - does not count as gainful employment. 

Independent Student: A student who is 18 years of age or older, or an emancipated minor, who a parent or legal guardian does not claim as a dependent for federal income tax purposes during the tax year. 

International Student: Individuals from countries other than the United States who are not U.S. citizens, nor permanent residents of the United States. 

Maintain Domicile: Physically reside in Texas with the intent to return to the state after any short, temporary absence. 

Parent: An individual’s natural or adoptive parent, or court-appointed legal guardian. The term does not otherwise include a step-parent.

Residence: A person’s home or other dwelling place. 

Temporary Absence from Texas: Temporary absence from the State of Texas (less than one year) by an individual who has established domicile in the state and intends to return, such as for military or federal service, employment, or education, does not affect the person’s ability to claim Texas as their domicile. 

Texas Resident: A student who lawfully meets U.S. domicile requirements and is eligible for Texas resident tuition.