The policy regarding residency for tuition purposes in Florida is composed of several layers, including state statute, rules of the two higher education governing boards in Florida, and statewide guidelines developed by college and university administrators in conjunction with the Statewide Residency Committee and the Florida Department of Education.

Section 1009.21, Florida Statutes, outlines the broad legal parameters for establishing residency for tuition purposes in Florida public higher education institutions.

New students to UWF or former students returning to UWF after three (3) consecutive semesters should contact either The Office of Undergraduate Admissions or The Graduate School (based on the type of admission application being submitted) for assistance in determining residency status for tuition purposes.

Students who are seeking a change in residency status for their second or subsequent semester of enrollment (after their first semester of enrollment or first semester of re-enrollment at UWF) should contact The Office of the Registrar for assistance in submitting a Request for Change of Residency Status form for qualification as a Florida resident.