The University of Maryland, like most public institutions of higher education, classifies students as "in-state" and "out-of-state" for various purposes, including assessing tuition. All new incoming students' default to out-of-state, non-resident. In-state tuition represents a significant financial subsidy toward the cost of education paid by the state of Maryland and the University.
The Board of Regents limits eligibility for "in-state" to a narrowly defined group of students. If all the elements in the definition of "in-state" are not met, the student will be classified as "out-of-state," unless an established exception in the policy exists. The VIII-2.70 Policy on Student Classification for Admission and Tuition Purposes of the University System of Maryland contains residency requirements, procedures, and appeal information.