Although the student advising program at Murray State University is specifically designed to assist students as they progress through degree programs, it is the responsibility of all students to be thoroughly familiar with rules, regulations and requirements that apply to their programs of study.

In addition to a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, an applicant must satisfy the admission standards and prerequisites of the department and college in which the applicant plans to study. Prerequisites and requirements for specific degrees will be found in the appropriate departmental sections of this bulletin.

Application for Admission
Requests for admission to graduate study at Murray State University should be addressed to Graduate Admissions, Sparks Hall, Murray State University, PO Box 9, Murray KY 42071-0009. To apply for admission the individual must submit an admission application and the $25 nonrefundable application fee. A graduate student may be required to submit a new application for admission if the level of program or graduate field change, or if the student does not enroll for a period of three or more semesters. Under the requirements of 12KAR2:045 as cited later in this chapter, review of residency for tuition purposes is part of the admission/readmission process. Documents to verify residency may be requested by Graduate Admissions and must be provided by the deadline indicated.

Official transcripts reflecting all previous college credit should be forwarded to Graduate Admissions of Murray State University by the registrars of the schools the applicant attended. In the event the student attended more than one college, an official transcript must be sent from each college. These credentials should be on file in Graduate Admissions not later than one month prior to the date the applicant expects to register.

Following the receipt of all required credentials, materials will be forwarded for departmental approval. After departmental review, the applicant will be forwarded an official letter indicating admission status.

Admission to graduate study is not admission to candidacy. Admission to candidacy is a deliberate action of the student’s advisor, the dean of the student’s college, and the vice president for academic affairs.

Graduate Admission Standards
The following standards represent minimum campus-wide requirements. Higher minimum standards for grade point average (GPA) and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Aptitude test may be set by individual departments or colleges. Some units may select other nationally recognized tests in lieu of the GRE that are more appropriate to their disciplines. Detailed information about any program-specific admission requirements beyond these campus-wide requirements is provided in the listings of individual programs found in this Graduate Bulletin.

Unconditional Admission
Minimum university requirements for unconditional admission are an overall 2.75 grade point average (based on A equals 4.0) or an overall grade point average of 2.5 and a minimum score of 800 on the Graduate Record Exam Aptitude Test (V+Q). Some degree programs have additional requirements for unconditional admission. Refer to the appropriate chapter of this bulletin for requirements relating to a specific degree.

Conditional Admission
Conditional admission may be granted to a student with an overall grade point average between 2.25 and 2.74 who has not taken the Graduate Record Exam, or who has not achieved the minimum acceptable score of 800 on that exam. Conditional admission may also be granted to a student with an overall grade point average of 2.0 to 2.24 if the student’s experience is evaluated by the college in which the student seeks admission indicating the likelihood of success. Some degree programs have additional requirements for conditional admission. Refer to the appropriate chapter in this bulletin for requirements relating to a specific degree.

Upon the completion of nine hours of graduate work a student admitted conditionally must have a 3.0 grade point average, or the student will be dropped from the graduate program. A graduate student dropped for failure to meet this requirement may reapply after having been out of the graduate program for one semester.

Any exceptions to this policy must be approved in writing by the departmental graduate coordinator, the department chair, and the collegiate graduate coordinator.

Unclassified Admission
An applicant holding a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution may be admitted as an unclassified graduate student if: 
1. the student demonstrates promise but is not qualified for admission to a graduate program; 
2. the student does not intend to complete a degree program at Murray State University; 
3. the student has no degree objective; or 
4. the student has files that are incomplete and cannot be processed for either conditional or unconditional admission.

•Regulations Governing Unclassified Admission
1. A student whose files are incomplete as specified in point 4 above would have one month from the date of enrollment to complete the files and change to a degree status.
2. Students with incomplete files will be restricted to one term enrollment only. 
3. Up to 12 hours earned as an unclassified graduate student may be applied to a degree if approved by the appropriate graduate advisor and the Graduate Studies Committee of the Academic Council. 
4. Unclassified graduate students will pay graduate fees for all courses.
5. An unclassified graduate student is allowed to take 12 semester hours only.

Non-Degree Graduate Admission
An applicant holding a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution may be admitted as a non-degree graduate student. An official transcript reflecting all previous college credit should be forwarded to Graduate Admissions at Murray State University by the registrar of the school or schools the student attended. An undergraduate GPA of 2.75 is required for admission as a non-degree student.

Graduates of Nonaccredited Institutions
An applicant with an undergraduate degree from an institution not regionally accredited may enter an MSU graduate program if the applicant meets the following requirements:
1. A score of 850 on the aptitude portion (V+Q) of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) with no less than 400 on either score.
2. Completion of 32 hours of undergraduate course credit at MSU or a regionally accredited institution which fulfill the following categories (as listed in the MSU Undergraduate Bulletin):
  A.  Communication and Basic Skills  (6 hrs)
  B.  Sciences and Mathematics (8 hrs)
  C.  Humanities and Fine Arts (6 hrs)
  D. Social Sciences  (6 hrs)
  E.  Electives (6 hrs) 
with a grade point average (GPA) for the 32 hours of 2.5 or better.
3. Any additional requirements of the department in which the student will do graduate work.

An applicant with an undergraduate degree from an institution not regionally accredited, who has completed graduate hours at an accredited institution, must fulfill the requirements of this policy. After admission to a graduate program at MSU, the graduate hours earned previously will be evaluated by the student’s graduate department for transfer credit.

Admission of MSU Seniors
Seniors at Murray State University who are within two courses (no more than nine hours) of the baccalaureate degree may be admitted to graduate study provided they meet departmental and general admission requirements. Seniors admitted on this basis are considered graduate students and they will be charged graduate tuition for all courses scheduled. This type of admission can cause problems with financial aid.

Students who fail to complete all undergraduate requirements during their first semester as graduate students will be denied graduate credit. All courses taken during that term will be treated as undergraduate, with no refund of graduate tuition. Students in dual-degree programs such as the MPAc, need to refer to the specific admission requirements and conditions for those programs.

Visiting Students
Any student in good standing in a recognized graduate school may enroll for graduate study at Murray State University for either a summer session or one regular semester as a visiting student.

A visiting student is not required to submit an official transcript, but must secure a visiting student form from Graduate Admissions of Murray State University. This form must be completed by the appropriate official of the student’s college/university and forwarded to Graduate Admissions of Murray State University. A visiting student who elects further graduate study at Murray State University must either fulfill all requirements for admission to graduate study or have a new visiting student form submitted by the student’s “home” graduate school.

Scholastic Probation
When students have completed nine or more semester hours of graduate course work with a grade point average of less than 3.0, they will be placed on scholastic probation and are subject to dismissal from their programs.

Students will have one full-time semester or the equivalent (nine hours) to remove the scholastic probation by attaining a 3.0 cumulative average. If probation is not removed, students will be dismissed from graduate classification.

Students who have been dismissed for these reasons may apply for readmission to the graduate program after two semesters or one semester and the ten-week summer term.

These are the minimum university regulations governing scholastic probation for graduate students. Each college may set additional requirements for scholastic probation in its graduate programs.

International Student Admission
In addition to departmental, collegiate and general graduate study requirements, an international student must submit the following to International Admissions before an admission decision can be made:
1. A completed application for admission, including the nonrefundable application fee of $25 (US).
2. An official transcript sent directly from the registrar of each college or university attended. An official copy of the diploma or graduation certificate will also be required if a student received a degree and it is not indicated on the official transcript. Copies must be certified by the issuing institution. Notarized copies will not be accepted. Credentials will be evaluated to determine if the course of study completed is equivalent to a four-year degree.
3. An official translation of any document not originally in English, sent directly from the translator.
4. All international students must submit proof of adequate funds to finance their entire course of study. A statement of financial responsibility should be sent directly from the person and/or organization providing financial support. In addition, the appropriate documentation to verify that funds are readily available to the student will be required.
5. Note: This section is subject to change based on changes to the TOEFL test and scoring scale by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). An official score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) mailed to the university directly from ETS in Princeton, New Jersey. No copies of reports will be accepted. A minimum score of 500* on a paper-based test or 173 on a computer-based test is required. All students who score between 500 and 550, or between 173 and 213 on computer based tests, will have their English language skills assessed on campus to determine if further work is needed to develop language proficiency. Assessment will take into consideration the TOEFL score and written, oral and listening proficiency. After assessment the student may be assigned to full-time language study in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program or entered into a graduate transition program and permitted to take classes on a conditional basis along with further designated language study, or admitted unconditionally to graduate study if the student meets all other specific program requirements.

A student who has successfully completed the advanced level of the MSU English as a Second Language (ESL) program, and has been certified in English competency by the designated ESL/College Graduate Program Assessment Committee, and met all other specific program requirements will be allowed to enroll in the designated graduate program. Performance in ESL classes, TOEFL scores, and written and oral proficiency in the specific area of graduate study will form the basis for language proficiency assessment. NOTE: The academic department has final authority to determine adequacy of communication skills or the requirement of additional language support classes prior to enrollment in graduate classes.

 *Several graduate programs require a higher minimum TOEFL score than the university minimum. Students must meet the specific language proficiency requirements listed in each respective department's admission requirements of this Graduate Bulletin. 

Graduate Program
All candidates for the master’s degree at Murray State University are required to follow a planned program of graduate study. Although a student may be required to take prerequisite courses, only approved courses completed while enrolled as a graduate student may apply toward a graduate program.
A graduate program form, bearing the name of the student’s advisor, will be forwarded with the letter of acceptance to graduate study. The student’s advisor should be consulted before or during registration for assistance in planning a program. During the first nine weeks of the first term enrolled, the student should complete the graduate program form and submit it to the specified advisor who will secure the required signatures and return the form to Graduate Admissions. To be approved, a program must meet all requirements stipulated in the Graduate Bulletin.
Any subsequent change in the program must be approved by the student’s advisor and the collegiate graduate coordinator. The student and the collegiate graduate coordinator are responsible for notifying Graduate Admissions of the program changes on an official substitution form. These forms are available from Graduate Admissions.

Advisor
Students are expected to confer frequently with their advisors and plan academic programs prior to the actual time of registration.
Although the student advising program at Murray State University is specifically designed to assist students as they progress through degree programs, it is the responsibility of all students to be thoroughly familiar with rules, regulations and requirements that apply to their programs of study, and decisions made in connection therewith are the sole responsibility of the student.

Registration
•Procedures
Registration at Murray State is handled through an on-line computerized process that may be accessed via RACER-TOUCH, a Touch-Tone telephone system, at 270-762-3500. Instructions and a trial schedule form are printed in the Schedule of Classes each term. Questions may be directed to Registration at 270-762-3776 or registration@murraystate.edu.

To be eligible to register, a graduate student must either have been enrolled as a graduate student with the last term enrolled being within the past two years preceding registration or must have been admitted or readmitted for the term in question. A student should have a graduate advisor’s approval of his or her proposed class schedule. A student with an incomplete admission file, one who has any indebtedness to the university, or one dismissed for academic reasons will not be permitted to register. A student who completes a degree or program who wishes to take additional courses must contact Graduate Admission for instructions.

Students who wish to take advantage of the main week of pre-scheduling must be admitted by the following deadlines:  April 1 for summer and fall terms, and November 1 for the spring term. Those admitted after these dates may schedule during late registration. Reference should be made to the official university calendar for the pre-scheduling dates for currently enrolled students. Those who must register late should follow the instructions printed in the official Schedule of Classes (published three times a year under separate cover). Students classified as “graduate” may schedule or register at any time listed in the class schedule. Before a student is considered registered, he/she must be properly enrolled in class and have made payment of required fees. A student who attends a class without being properly enrolled will not receive credit.

•Change of Schedule
Any schedule changes should have an advisor’s approval. A signature from the instructor of the class is required for those who wish to audit a class. Changes may be made by the drop/add procedure. For changes that do not require special approval, the student should call RACER-TOUCH at 270-762-3500. Forms for changes that require special permission should be taken to the registration area indicated in the Schedule of Classes. Any additional tuition or course fees may be charged to an acceptable credit card by calling RACER-TOUCH at 270-762-3500 or may be paid in the Cashier’s Office on the second floor of Sparks Hall. Changing a course from CREDIT to AUDIT is done by the drop/add process, but may not be done via RACER-TOUCH. Use the audit permission form available in the Schedule of Classes or from your advisor. Obtain the required signature of the instructor of each course being audited and submit the form to the Registration Office in Sparks Hall.

Dropping a class before the end of the first drop period will eliminate the course from the student’s permanent record. For classes dropped during the second drop period, the student will receive a grade of withdrawn (W). Consult the current university calendar for dates and deadlines. (Note:  WP/WE option is only used for assigning grades to students who completely withdraw from all courses after the period of time during which W’s are assigned.)

•Auditing of Courses
An auditor is one who enrolls and participates in a course without expecting to receive academic credit. The same registration procedure is followed and the same fees are charged as for courses taken for credit. An audited course is not applicable to any degree or certificate program but is included in determining the student’s course load. Audited courses may be repeated for credit.

Regular class attendance is expected of an auditor. Students interested in auditing a course must secure written permission from the instructor and discuss course requirements prior to enrolling. Failure to meet course requirements may result in the auditor’s being withdrawn from the course at the request of the instructor or a failing grade may be assigned. A successful audit will be recorded on the transcript with the designation AU.

•Withdrawal from School 
Students dropping all classes must contact the Registrar’s Office for proper withdrawal procedures. Students who do not process official withdrawal forms will receive failing grades in all of their courses. Withdrawal must be completed no later than one week prior to the end of scheduled classes. A withdrawal date only, or a withdrawal date with W, WP or WE grades will be recorded on the student’s permanent record in accordance with the dates published in the official Schedule of Classes. Refund policies are available from the Bursar’s Office or the web.

•Administrative Withdrawal
Students who fail to meet their obligations to Murray State University, either financial or administrative, may be withdrawn from the university and lose all credit being attempted. Withdrawal of any type does not remove the student’s financial obligation to the university.

•Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), more commonly referred to as the Buckley Amendment, addresses the right of access to educational records. Within 45 days of the initial request and with proper identification, enrolled students have the right to view their educational records. A request for amendment may be made. A request for a hearing about any unresolved issues should be made to the registrar.

A parent who claimed a student on the previous year’s tax returns may request permission to view a student’s educational records if the parent produces a copy of the previous year’s return and sufficient personal identification. A parent of a student under the age of 18 may view the student’s educational records upon documenting parentage and providing personal identification.

All educational records at Murray State University may be viewed by university officials with an appropriate need to know. For this purpose, university officials are defined as the university attorney, all administrators, faculty, staff and student workers in administrative or academic areas.

Copies of FERPA and the university’s policy on access are available for viewing in the Registrar’s Office, first floor of Sparks Hall.

Directory Information. Murray State University considers the following information to be “directory information” as defined in the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act as amended, and to be available for public release unless the student has indicated that any or all of the items are not to be released:  name, addresses (including e-mail), telephone numbers, date of birth, place of birth, fields of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, degrees and awards received, classification, full/part-time status, dates of attendance, and most recent previous educational institution attended. An enrolled student may register an objection to the release of this information by coming to the Registrar’s Office during the first five days of classes and signing a form. This form must be completed each semester during which an enrolled student wishes that information to be withheld.

If a student requests information withheld during a term and does not return to Murray State after that term, that request remains in force until such time as a formal written statement removing that hold is received from the student.

Name and Address Change. Any student who changes name, social security number, or address is expected to notify both Graduate Admissions and the Registrar’s Office. The student will be held responsible for any communication from any university office sent to the address last given and may not claim indulgence on the plea of having changed lodgings or name and therefore of not having received the communication. The information from a student’s initial admission to the university will remain on the student’s transcript with any changes added to the permanent record when the required legal documents are presented to the Registrar’s Office. Contact the Registrar’s Office for specifics on required documentation. Changing an address does not change residency for tuition purposes.

Course Numbers
The numbers used to identify courses are as follows:
001-089 special category post secondary
090-299 lower division undergraduate
300-499 upper division undergraduate
500-599* upper division undergraduate/graduate
600-799 graduate
(*Requires at least a junior classification-graduate students must complete additional course work to that required of undergraduates. Students desiring graduate credit must be admitted to graduate studies prior to scheduling a 500-level course.)

Course and Policy Changes
The university reserves the right to cancel any course for which there is insufficient enrollment and to make any other policy changes or adjustments in the Bulletin which are deemed necessary.

Graduate Assistantships
Graduate teaching and research assistantships are available in most departments for highly qualified graduate students. The out-of-state portion of tuition is waived for those with an assistantship for the fall and/or spring terms. A student who has had, or will have an approved graduate assistantship may request this same waiver for one summer term. Stipends for assistantships may vary between departments.

Graduate assistants are expected to familiarize themselves with university policies and to fulfill their professional responsibilities to the university. An applicant for a graduate assistantship must be admitted to a graduate program.

Course load requirements for graduate assistants are stated under “Assistantship Grade Point Requirements” (below) and “Course Load” (Chapter 3) in the Graduate Bulletin.

Applications for assistantships should be filed with the chairman of the department of the student’s major field of interest no later than March 1 prior to fall enrollment.

 Assistantship Grade Point Average Requirements. To qualify for a graduate assistantship, an entering graduate student must have an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale from a regionally accredited institution. Exceptions may be made for one semester only in cases of assistantships in academic departments when an otherwise ineligible student has required expertise. In such cases, this rule may be waived upon petition by the student, with approval by the departmental chair, the collegiate dean, and the vice president for academic affairs.

A graduate student who has been admitted on a conditional basis with a GPA less than 2.5 will become eligible for consideration for a graduate assistantship upon the completion of nine hours of graduate work with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. All graduate students must maintain a 3.0 graduate GPA to remain eligible for renewal of their assistantships for the next semester or academic year. Grades of I received because a thesis or research project has not been completed will not be used when calculating the GPA for this requirement.

Fellowships and Scholarships
Murray State graduate students may apply for fellowships and academic scholarships available each year through the resources of the Alumni Association, the Office of the MSU Foundation, and some academic colleges and departments.

The website address to use in obtaining specific information and/or an application is www.murraystate.edu, then click on Scholarships.

Scholarship applications, available after November 1 each year, are distributed throughout the campus or may be picked up at the Scholarship Office in Ordway Hall. The application deadline is February 1. Dollar amounts vary. Scholarship funds are to be used for direct educational expenses (tuition, room and/or a meal plan). Amounts are equally applied in fall and spring semesters only. There are very few exceptions to this policy, unless related to summer research.

For further information contact the University Scholarship Office at 1-800-272-4678, ext. 4, or direct 270-762-3225.

Financial Aid
Graduate students may apply for the Stafford Loan and the Perkins Student Loan Programs. Part-time employment opportunities under the Federal Work-Study Program and the university’s own Student Employment Program are also available.

Federal regulations state that any student who receives assistance from the Federal Work Study, Stafford Loan and Perkins Student Loan programs will be required to make measurable academic progress toward a degree in order to assure the completion of the degree program within a “reasonable period of time.” For the purposes of financial aid, a student will be permitted a maximum of three academic years for completion of a master’s degree program.

For complete information on financial aid programs for graduate students at Murray State, write the Student Financial Aid Office, B2 Sparks Hall, Murray State University, Murray KY 42071-0009 or call 270-762-2546 or 1-800-272-4678 ext. 3 or visit our website at  www.murraystate.edu/sccsv/financial/index.htm or email sfa.office@murraystate.edu.

Costs
A student who is classified as a graduate student will be assessed graduate fees for all courses, whether graduate or undergraduate. All fees, including applicable room and board, must be paid by noon on the due date shown on the semester billing statement (see Fee Payment section below). Students who do not make payment of required fees are not registered students. All fees imposed by the university are subject to change without notice by action of the Murray State University Board of Regents.

All accounts owed by a student to the university must be paid in full before the student is entitled to receive a degree, a transcript, a record of grades, schedule classes for preregistration, or to enroll in classes.

•Tuition and Registration Fees
Refer to Costs on the Murray State University website: www.murraystate.edu/bursar

All students with a valid Racer I.D. card are entitled to admission to athletic events, student health services, Murray Civic Music Association performances and certain activities sponsored by the Curris Center.

Tuition is assessed on a per credit hour basis at the same rate listed for part-time students.

•Reciprocity Students
As of the fall term of 1990 the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the state of Tennessee began a reciprocity agreement that allows students from selected counties in both states to attend designated colleges at in-state tuition rates. The counties affected for Murray State University are the Tennessee counties of Henry, Obion, Stewart and Weakley.

Both full-time and part-time students from those  counties, who are eligible to enroll at Murray State University, are eligible to receive the in-state tuition rate and to continue at that rate as long as the reciprocity agreement is in effect.

Tuition Credits: Students from Massac County, Illinois; or Posey, Vanderburgh, or Warrick counties in Indiana; or Montgomery County, Tennessee, who are required to complete an admission application for Summer 2004 or later are eligible for a tuition credit. This credit will reduce each student’s tuition from the out-of-state to the in-state tuition rate.

•Regional Tuition Discount
Students applying for admission or readmission who are residents of  counties in Illinois (other than Massac), Indiana (other than Posey, Vanderburgh, or Warrick), Missouri, and Tennessee (other than Henry, Montgomery, Obion, Stewart and Weakley) will be charged out-of-state tuition. A tuition discount will be credited for the difference between Murray State University’s out-of-state tuition and the average in-state rate based on the student’s official state of residency on record with Admissions Services.

Continuing Students from the Tennessee counties of Cheatham, Davidson, Robertson, Sumner and Williamson will come under the Regional Tuition policy if they have a one year absence from Murray State University.

The summer Regional Tuition rate for graduate students will be an hourly rate.

•Incentive Grant (previously Achievement Scholarship)
Newly admitted graduate students from Alabama counties of Jefferson, Madison and Montgomery and Georgia counties of Cobb, DeKalb and Fulton, are eligible to receive an Incentive Grant. For each fall or spring term, he value of this grant is $1,375 for each term for a full-time student.

A continuing Incentive Grant graduate student who is not under a restricted admission status, who is pursuing an initial degree at Murray State, and who is from one of the selected counties in AL, GA, IL, IN, MO and TN may be eligible for an Incentive Grant if that student meets the required GPA in May of each year. Graduate students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00. The value of the Incentive Grant is determined by the student’s initial term of enrollment at Murray State, as follows:  if Spring 1999 or before, $1,000 each fall or spring; if Summer 1999, Fall 1999 or Spring 2000, $1,250 each fall or spring; if Summer 2000, Fall 2000 or Spring 2001, $1,375 each fall or spring. A student who is eligible for a conditional in-state tuition rate (graduate assistants, co-op students, etc.) will not receive an Incentive Grant. A student who has lost eligibility for the Incentive Grant should contact the Registrar’s Office for the requirements and procedures for reinstatement. A student cannot regain eligibility on the basis of grades earned during the fall term, or a summer term that does not end before classes begin in August.

NOTE:  The out-of-state tuition rate will appear on the student’s bill. The Incentive Grant credit is applied for those who are eligible.

•Reinstatement of Incentive Grants
To be reconsidered for the Incentive Grant, a student who was ineligible or lost eligibility must meet all requirements for eligibility. 

A student cannot regain eligibility on the basis of grades earned during a fall term, or during a summer term that does not end in time to meet the August deadline. Out-of-state tuition will be charged while a student is attempting to regain eligibility. 

This policy is subject to change without prior notification, as deemed necessary by Murray State University's Board of Regents.Questions should be directed to 270-762-3750.

•Housing Fees
Refer to Costs on the Murray State University website: www.murraystate.edu/bursar

Signing in at the front desk of the residential college you are assigned to, accepting the room key, or moving things into the room constitutes binding acceptance of the housing contract and obligates the resident for the full amount of the year’s room rent. Students interested in terminating their housing contract during the academic year should contact the housing office for information on available options. The student agrees to abide by all laws and the housing and university rules as contained in the Student Handbook. The university reserves the right to cancel the housing contract at any time if a student evidences an inability to live within the housing regulations of Murray State University.

Students who formally complete an official withdrawal from the university are required to move from the residence hall within 24 hours and they are eligible for a refund of the unused portion of their rent.

Students who get married during the semester and choose to move off campus are also eligible for a refund after their marriage license is presented at the Housing Office.

Applications, Deposits, Refunds, Forfeits. Students desiring university housing must complete an application, enclose a $75.00 deposit for a residential college room or $100 deposit for a College Courts apartment, payable to Murray State University, and submit both to the Housing Office of the university as early as possible to assure accommodations. Scholarships do not cover the housing deposit. It is imperative to remember that before a student is permitted to move into university housing, the student must be admitted academically to the university.

Any student desiring to cancel a housing application must do so in writing to the Director of Housing no later than July 1 for a fall semester reservation, December 1 for the spring semester, and May 15 for the summer term.

Cancellation of a housing application after this date will result in a forfeiture of the deposit. Any student having a reservation but failing to register in a residential college also must forfeit the room deposit.

Room deposits are held while a student resides in university housing. After the initial application, a student need only complete a room reservation form to maintain a room in the residential college each year. The room reservation forms are distributed by each residential college office to students living in the college. When a student permanently moves from the residential college, the room deposit is refunded approximately 60 days after final departure. Costs for damages, missing inventory, outstanding debts, etc., will be deducted from the deposit refund.

•Meal Plans
There are a variety of meal plans to choose from ranging from one meal per week to 19 meals per week. Contact the RacerCard office for the latest options and prices at 270-762-4600.

Students may also elect to deposit funds on their Racer Card ID to use like cash at food service locations and the University Store.

•Other Fees (as of Spring 2004)
Other fees include:
• admission application fee $25.00
• master’s degree fee $20.00
• deferred degree fee (change of degree date) $5.00
• duplicate degree fee $10.00
• duplicate Racer Card ID $12.50
• late registration $25.00
 (begins approximately 14 calendar days prior to first day of classes)
• master’s thesis binding fee (per copy) $6.50
• Millers Analogies test $40.00
• official transcript mailed $3.00
   on demand $5.00
• recreational ID per semester $5.00
 (students, faculty, staff, spouse and dependent child)
• residence hall activity fee, per semester $3.50
• service charge on returned checks $20.00
• vehicle parking permit $55.00
• Racer Card fee $12.50

Certain academic courses such as private lessons, utilization of special facilities, or directed experiences require an additional fee. For more information on fees, go to www.murraystate.edu and visit the admissions/registrar link.

•Fee Payment
Payments are due by noon on the due date shown on the semester billing statement (see below). Payments may be made by mail, online using RacerPay at www.murraystate.edu or by phone using RACER-TOUCH at 270-762-3500, or in person at the Cashier’s Office, second floor lobby, Sparks Hall. Cash, credit cards (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, VISA) and checks are acceptable methods of payment.

•Payment Options
Payment arrangements must be made with the Office of the Bursar when parents and/or students are unable to make payment in full from personal funds by noon on the due date shown on the semester billing statement. Accounts with a balance of $100 or less are due in full.

Acceptable payment arrangements are as follows:
• Payment of all fees in full by noon on the due date shown on the semester billing statement. Cash, credit cards (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, VISA) and checks are acceptable.
• Enrollment in the Murray State University Payment Plan. NOTE:  All financial aid and third-party recipients are required to enroll in the Murray State University Payment Plan. Acceptable third-party agencies are foreign embassies, vocational rehabilitation, Kentucky state agency, VA, Department of Labor, Fort Campbell, NAFTA, TAA, WIA, Upward Bound and company direct billing.

•Late Registration Fees
The late registration period begins approximately 14 calendar days prior to the first day of classes. (See the official university calendar in the Schedule of Classes for exact dates.)  All current or returning students registering for the semester for the first time during the late registration period will be assessed a $25 late registration fee. Failure to make payment by the due date shown on the student’s billing statement will cause the student’s class schedule to be dropped (purged) from the computer system. Students who elect to re-schedule after their original schedules have been officially purged will be assessed the $25 late registration fee. New students will not be assessed a late registration fee during the first term they enroll at MSU.

•Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver
Murray State University, in accordance with KRS 164.284, will waive all tuition and registration fees (except for special workshop-type courses) for any person 65 years of age or older who is a resident of Kentucky. Special course fees or necessary materials for class use are not covered in the waiver.
In the event that classes are full or the granting of free enrollment requires additional staff, the university may deny an individual’s request.

•Refunds
Refunds will be made in accordance with the university’s official Schedule of Fees, refer to Costs on the Murray State website: www.murraystate.edu/bursar. Any questions concerning refunds should be directed to the Bursar’s Office. All refunds will be made by check and will be mailed to the students at their home addresses.

Withdrawal. A student who completes official withdrawal (written clearance through the Registration and Bursar’s Offices constitutes completion) or is dismissed will receive a refund of tuition, fees, room and board in accordance with the official Schedule of Fees. Students residing in Murray State University residence halls will receive refunds only in the event of withdrawal from school, dismissal or marriage.
Federal Return of Title IV Funds Policy. This policy applies to all students receiving federal loans or grants. For complete information concerning this policy refer to the University Bursar’s Office web page under Pro-Ration of Charges.

Drop. A student who completes the drop process through RACER-TOUCH will receive a refund of tuition and/or course fee if the student (1) drops below full-time, (2) is part-time and drops a class(es), or (3) is full-time and drops a class with refundable course fee. A student who drops a meal plan will receive a refund. Both types of refund will be in accordance with the dates given in the official Schedule of Fees.

Appeals Process. Students who wish to appeal their refund amount must do so in writing to Refunds Appeals Committee, Student Loan Accounting, 2nd Floor Sparks Hall.

Residency Fee Policy
 The Council on Post-Secondary Education (CPE) has promulgated an administrative regulation - “Determination of Residency Status for Admission and Tuition Assessment Purposes” - to be followed by all public institutions of higher education in the Commonwealth. (Following these MSU guidelines is a copy of that policy.)  The CPE requires each institution to establish procedures for administering the residency regulation.

I. Rationale for Residency Regulation
 The Council on Post-Secondary Education (CPE) has promulgated an administrative regulation - “Determination of Residency Status for Admission and Tuition Assessment Purposes” - to be followed by all public institutions of higher education in the Commonwealth. (Following these MSU guidelines is a copy of that policy.)  The CPE requires each institution to establish procedures for administering the residency regulation.

II. Institutional Administration
A. Initial Classification of Residence
 The initial classification of residency is determined by Admissions Services and is based upon the facts in existence when the credentials for admission for a specific academic term have been received and during the period of review; information derived from admission materials; and other information available from any source. In cases where the application for admission does not provide sufficient information for an initial classification, Admissions Services may request additional information necessary for a classification decision. Upon receipt and review of any additional information, a residence classification is determined, and the student is notified by letter. Changes in the initial residence classification may be made by Admissions Services prior to the beginning of the term if the student furnishes sufficient evidence of Kentucky residency. Any appeal from the decision of the Admissions Office must be filed in writing with the Registrar within fourteen (14) calendar days of notice to the student of the decision, but in no event more than thirty (30) calendar days after the first day of classes of the academic term for which the reclassification is sought.
B.  Appeals of Residency Classification
 1. Right to Appeal
  (a) New students who wish to appeal the residency decision of Admissions Services or enrolled students who wish for a reconsideration of their initial determination of residency status based upon change of circumstances are guaranteed the right of appeal.
  (b) At all times the burden will be on the student to demonstrate Kentucky residency by a preponderance of the evidence. Although strict rules of evidence need not necessarily be observed, all proceedings will be governed by the principle of fundamental fairness to all concerned.
  (c) It is the responsibility of the student to make certain that all documentation required during any appeals is forwarded to the appropriate decision maker. The Registrar may, if requested, assist the student and/or parents in compiling the appropriate information.
  (d) A student will not be entitled to appeal any determination of residency status if the determination is because a student has failed to meet deadlines for the submission of information. A student may request a review of a determination of residency status in a subsequent academic term.
  (e) Any fees due prior to the final disposition of an appeal will be paid at the in-state rate, with the student to be held responsible for the out-of-state portion if the appeal does not result in Kentucky residency. If an appeal results in a change of classification, the change will not be effective earlier than the term during which the appeal is filed.
 2. Initial Appeals and the Role of the Registrar 
  (a) The Registrar is the institutional officer designated for coordination of administration of the residency regulation. Instructions for filing appeals and copies of the residency regulation are available from the Office of the Registrar.
  (b) Appeals from Initial Residency Determination
   (i) All appeals from the initial residency determination will initially be taken to the Registrar. An appeal to the Registrar will be initiated by providing written notice of the desire to appeal to the Registrar within fourteen (14) calendar days of notice to the student of the decision to be appealed.
   (ii) The student will be required, if not done previously, to submit the residency affidavit to the Registrar. The student may also submit other documentation. The Registrar will render a decision within fourteen (14) calendar days of the date of the student’s appeal. The student will be notified in writing of the decision.
   (iii) If the student is dissatisfied with the decision of the Registrar, an appeal may be taken to the Residency Review Committee by advising the Registrar in writing within fourteen (14) calendar days of the student’s receipt of the notice of the decision. 
  (c) Reconsideration of Residency Classification by Enrolled Students Due to Changed Circumstances
 Enrolled students who have reason to request a change of residency due to changed circumstances may obtain the affidavit for resident classification, copy of the residency regulation, and filing instructions from the Office of the Registrar. In no case will a residency status be changed without the completion of the official affidavit and supporting documentation. A request for reclassification of residency must be submitted to the Registrar not more than thirty (30) calendar days after the first day of classes of the academic term for which the reclassification is sought. A decision will be issued by the Registrar within fourteen (14) calendar days of submission of the affidavit and documentation to the Office of the Registrar. A request to appeal the Registrar’s decision to the Residency Review Committee must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar within fourteen (14) calendar days of the student’s receipt of notification of denial.
 3. Residency Review Committee
  (a) Committee Membership
The Residency Review Committee is composed of one (1) student, three (3) faculty representatives, and two (2) staff members as appointed by the Provost. The Bursar serves as chair and is the seventh member of the Committee.
  (b) Meetings
Meetings are called by the Bursar upon receipt of an appeal. Appellants are notified in writing of the meeting date, time, and place.
  (c) Procedures
  (1) Quorum - Attendance by four (4) members of the Committee constitutes a quorum necessary for official action of the Committee.
  (2) Affidavit and Documentation - The Office of the Registrar provides to members of the Committee copies of the student’s residency file. Additional information provided to the Registrar or Committee members may be introduced as relevant information in determining the appropriate residency status.
  (3) Voting - A record will be maintained regarding the rationale for changing any residence classification or for upholding the original classification. The record will be available to the Appellant for inspection, if requested.
  (4) Personal Appearances - The Committee is a non-adversarial group which welcomes personal appearances by Appellants where the personal appearance might serve to clarify circumstances of the appeal. The Appellant may be accompanied by an advisor; however, in no case will the advisor address the Committee unless requested by the Committee.
  (5) Notification of Decision - All decisions of the Committee are communicated to the Appellant by official written correspondence from the Committee Chair. Any denial letter will include a citation of the appropriate guideline(s) referenced in making the decision. The Residency Review Committee will make a determination of student residency status and notify the student in writing within forty-five (45) calendar days after receipt of the student appeal.
 4. Formal Institutional Hearing
A student who appeals a determination of residency by the Residency Review Committee shall be granted a formal institutional hearing in accordance with Section 14 of the state residency regulation (13 KAR 2:045).
  (a) Student Rights and Responsibilities
  (1) The Appellant shall submit a written request for a formal institutional hearing to the Office of the Provost. A request shall be made within fourteen (14) calendar days of receipt by the student of notification of the residency decision by the Residency Review Committee.
  (2) The Appellant has the right:
   a. To be represented by legal counsel;
   b. To present information and give testimony and information in support of a claim of Kentucky residency.
  (3) The student is responsible for any expenses incurred for legal representation in support of the student’s claim of residency.
B.  Institutional Rights and Responsibilities
  (1) The formal institutional hearing shall be administered through the Office of the Provost. The Provost shall appoint a hearing officer who shall be a person:
  (a) who is not involved in determinations of residency except for formal hearings at Murray State University, and
  (b) who is not an employee in the same organizational unit as the Registrar.
  (2) Murray State University may be represented at the hearing by the institution’s General Counsel.
  (3) A hearing shall be scheduled within forty-five (45) calendar days following receipt of the student’s written request.
  (4) The Office of the Provost will forward the following items to the hearing officer no fewer than ten (10) calendar days prior to the scheduled hearing:
  (a) Student’s written request for a formal institutional hearing;
  (b) Copy of the student’s residency file including the residency affidavit and supporting documentation.
  (5) The institution shall bear all institutional expenses of the hearing, not to include any expenses incurred by the Appellant.
  (6) New information and documentation provided by the student that was not available during any prior consideration shall result in a recommendation by the hearing officer to remand the case to the Residency Review Committee for further action. A remand shall require the Residency Review Committee to reconsider the determination of residency status in light of the new information.
C. Notification of the Administrative Hearing
  (1) Notice of the hearing shall be made by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the Appellant no fewer than twenty (20) calendar days prior to the hearing. An effort will be made to schedule the hearing on a date that is convenient to the parties involved.
  (2) The notice shall include:
  (a) A statement of the date, time, place, and nature of the hearing;
  (b) The name, official title, and mailing address of the hearing officer;
  (c) The names, official titles, mailing addresses, and telephone numbers of all parties to the hearing, including the counsel representing the University;
  (d)  A statement of the issues involved, along with a reference to any pertinent statute or regulation, so as to give the parties reasonable opportunity to prepare evidence and argument;
  (e)  A statement of the procedures to be followed during the hearing;
  (f) A statement advising Appellant of his/her right to retain legal counsel;
  (g) A statement of the right of the parties to examine, prior to the hearing, any documentary evidence to be used at the hearing and to be advised of witnesses to be present; 
  (h) A statement advising that any party who fails to attend or participate as required at any stage of the administrative hearing process may be held in default; 
  (i) The Office of the Provost and/or the hearing officer may include additional requirements in the Notice consistent with this Operational Policy.
D.  Conduct of the Hearing
  (1) The hearing shall be conducted at a time and place determined by the Office of the Provost.
  (2) The hearing officer shall preside over the conduct of the hearing and shall regulate the course of the proceedings in a manner which will promote the orderly and prompt conduct of the hearing.
  (3) The hearing officer shall afford all parties the opportunity to respond, present evidence, conduct cross-examination, and submit rebuttal evidence.
  (4) If a party fails to attend or participate in the hearing or other stage of the administrative hearing process, or fails to comply with the orders of a hearing officer, the hearing officer may adjourn the proceedings and issue a recommendation to the Provost for default order granting or denying residency as appropriate, or may conduct the proceedings without the participation of the defaulting party, having due regard for the interest of justice and the orderly and prompt conduct of the proceeding.
  (5) A hearing officer may conduct an administrative hearing by telephone or video conference if each party to the hearing agrees.
  (6) All testimony shall be made under oath or affirmation.
  (7) All testimony, motions, and objections shall be accurately and completely recorded.
E. Final Disposition
  (1) The hearing officer shall render a written recommendation to the Office of the Provost within fourteen (14) calendar days after the hearing is concluded. The written recommendation shall state the reason(s) for the recommendation.
  (2) Within fourteen (14) calendar days of receipt of the hearing officer’s recommendation, the Office of the Provost shall render a final written decision. Notice of the decision and the hearing officer’s recommendation shall be made to the Appellant by registered mail, return receipt requested.

13 KAR 2:045. Determination of residency status for admission and tuition assessment purposes.
 RELATES TO: KRS Chapter 13B, 164.020, 164.030, 164A.330(6) STATUTORY AUTHORITY: KRS 164.020(8) NECESSITY, FUNCTION, AND CONFORMITY: KRS 164.020(8) requires the Council on Postsecondary Education to determine tuition and approve the minimum qualifications for admission to a state-supported postsecondary education institution and authorizes the Council to set different tuition amounts for residents of Kentucky and for nonresidents. This administrative regulation establishes the procedure and guidelines for determining the residency status of a student who is seeking admission to, or who is enrolled at, a state-supported postsecondary education institution.
 Section 1. Definitions. (1) “Academic term” means a division of the school year during which a course of studies is offered, and includes a semester, quarter, or single consolidated summer term as defined by the institution.
 (2) “Continuous enrollment” means enrollment in a state-supported postsecondary education institution at the same degree level for consecutive terms, excluding summer term, since the beginning of the period for which continuous enrollment is claimed unless a sequence of continuous enrollment is broken due to extenuating circumstances beyond the student’s control, including serious personal illness or injury, or illness or death of a parent.
 (3) “Degree level” means enrollment in a course or program which could result in the award of a:
 (a) Certificate, diploma or other program award at an institution;
 (b) Baccalaureate degree or lower including enrollment in a course by a nondegree-seeking postbaccalaureate student;
 (c) Graduate degree or graduate certification other than a first-professional degree in law, medicine, dentistry or “Pharm. D”; or
 (d) Professional degree in law, medicine, dentistry, or “Pharm. D”.
 (4) “Demonstration of Kentucky domicile and residency” means the presentation of documented information and evidence sufficient to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that a person is domiciled in Kentucky and is a resident of Kentucky.
 (5) “Dependent person” means a person who cannot demonstrate financial independence from parents or persons other than a spouse and who does not meet the criteria established in Section 5 of this administrative regulation.
 (6) “Determination of residency status” means the decision of a postsecondary education institution that may include a formal hearing that results in the classification of a person as a Kentucky resident or as a nonresident for admission and tuition assessment purposes.
 (7) “Domicile” means a person’s true, fixed, and permanent home and is the place where the person intends to remain, and to which the person expects to return if absent without intending to establish a new domicile elsewhere.
 (8) “Full-time employment” means continuous employment for at least forty-eight (48) weeks at an average of at least thirty (30) hours per week.
 (9) “Independent person” means a person who demonstrates financial independence from parents or persons other than a spouse and who can meet the criteria established in Section 5 of this administrative regulation.
 (10) “Institution” means an entity defined in KRS 164.001(11) if the type of institution is not expressly stated and includes the Kentucky Virtual University, the Council on Postsecondary Education, and the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority.
 (11) “Kentucky resident” means a determination by an institution that a person is domiciled in and is a resident of Kentucky as determined by this administrative regulation.
 (12) “Nonresident” means a person who is domiciled outside of Kentucky or who currently maintains legal residence outside Kentucky or who is not a Kentucky resident within the meaning of this administrative regulation.
 (13) “Parent” means one (1) of the following:
 (a) A person’s father or mother; or
 (b) A court-appointed legal guardian if:
 1. The guardianship is recognized by an appropriate court within the United States;
 2. There was a relinquishment of the rights of the parents; and
 3. The guardianship was not established primarily to confer Kentucky residency on the person.
 (14) “Preponderance of the evidence” means the greater weight of evidence, or evidence which is more credible and convincing to the mind.
 (15) “Residence” means the place of abode of a person and the place where the person is physically present most of the time for a noneducational purpose in accordance with Section 3 of this administrative regulation.
 (16) “Student financial aid” means all forms of payments to a student if one (1) condition of receiving the payment is the enrollment of the student at an institution.
 (17) “Sustenance” means living expenses including room, board, maintenance, transportation, and also may include educational expenses including tuition, fees, books, and supplies.
 Section 2. Scope. (1) State-supported postsecondary education institutions were established and are maintained by the Commonwealth of Kentucky primarily for the benefit of qualified residents of Kentucky. The substantial commitment of public resources to postsecondary education is predicated on the proposition that the state benefits significantly from the existence of an educated citizenry. As a matter of policy, access to postsecondary education shall be provided so far as feasible at reasonable cost to an individual who is domiciled in Kentucky and who is a resident of Kentucky.
 (2) The Council on Postsecondary Education may require a student who is neither domiciled in nor a resident of Kentucky to meet higher admission standards and to pay a higher level of tuition than resident students.
 (3) This administrative regulation applies to all student residency determinations regardless of circumstances, including residency determinations made by the state-supported institutions for prospective and currently-enrolled students; the Southern Regional Education Board contract spaces; reciprocity agreements, where appropriate; the Kentucky Virtual University; academic common market programs; the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship Program; and other state student financial aid programs, as appropriate.
 Section 3. Determination of Residency Status; General Rules. (1) A determination of residency shall include:
 (a) An initial determination of residency status by an institution during the admission process or upon enrollment in an institution for a specific academic term or for admission into a specific academic program;
 (b) A reconsideration of a determination of residency status by an institution based upon a changed circumstance; and
 (c) A formal hearing conducted by an institution upon request of a student after other administrative procedures have been completed.
 (2) An initial determination of residency status shall be based upon:
 (a) The facts in existence when the credentials established by an institution for admission for a specific academic term have been received and during the period of review by the institution;
 (b) Information derived from admissions materials;
 (c) Other materials required by an institution and which are consistent with this administrative regulation; or
 (d) Other information available to the institution from any source.
 (3) An individual seeking a determination of Kentucky residency status shall demonstrate that status by a preponderance of the evidence.
 (4) A determination of residency status shall be based upon verifiable circumstances or actions.
 (5) Evidence and information cited as the basis for Kentucky domicile and residency shall accompany the application for a determination of residency status.
 (6) A student classified as a nonresident shall retain that status until the student is officially reclassified by an institution.
 (7) A student may apply for a review of a determination of residency status once for each academic term.
 (8) If an institution has information that a student’s residency status may be incorrect, the institution shall review and determine the student’s correct residency status.
 (9) If the Council on Postsecondary Education has information that an institution’s determination of residency status for a student may be incorrect, it may require the institution to review the circumstances and report the results of that review.
 (10) An institution shall impose a penalty or sanction against a student who gives incorrect or misleading information to an institutional official, including payment of nonresident tuition for each academic term for which resident tuition was assessed based on an improper determination of residency status. The penalty may also include:
 (a) Student discipline by the institution through a policy written and disseminated to students; or
 (b) Criminal prosecution.
 Section 4. Presumptions Regarding Residency Status. (1) In making a determination of residency status, it shall be presumed that a person is a nonresident if:
 (a) A person is, or seeks to be, an undergraduate student and admissions records show the student to be a graduate of an out-of-state high school within five (5) years prior to a request for a determination of residency status;
 (b) A person’s admissions records indicate the student’s residence to be outside of Kentucky at the time of application for admission;
 (c) A person moves to Kentucky primarily for the purpose of enrollment in an institution;
 (d) A person moves to Kentucky and within twelve (12) months enrolls at an institution more than half time; or
 (e) A person has a continuous absence of one (1) year from Kentucky.
 (2) A presumption arising from subsection (1) of this section shall be overcome by presentation of evidence that is sufficient to demonstrate that a person is domiciled in and is a resident of Kentucky.
 Section 5. Determination of Whether a Student is Dependent or Independent. (1) In a determination of residency status, an institution shall first determine whether a student is dependent or independent. This provision is predicated on the assumption that a dependent person lacks the financial ability to live independently of the person upon whom the student is dependent and therefore lacks the ability to form the requisite intent to establish domicile.
 (2) In determining the dependent or independent status of a person, the following information shall be considered as well as other relevant information available at the time the determination is made:
 (a)1. Whether the person has been claimed as a dependent on the federal or state tax returns of a parent or other person for the year preceding the date of application for a determination of residency status; or
 2. Whether the person is no longer claimed by a parent or other person as a dependent or as an exemption for federal and state tax purposes; and
 (b) Whether the person has financial earnings and resources independent of a person other than an independent spouse necessary to provide for the person’s own sustenance.
 (3) An individual who enrolls at an institution immediately following graduation from high school and remains enrolled shall be presumed to be a dependent person unless the contrary is evident from the information submitted.
 (4) Domicile may be inferred from the student’s permanent address, parent’s mailing address, or location of high school of graduation.
 (5) Marriage to an independent person domiciled in and who is a resident of Kentucky shall be a factor considered by an institution in determining whether a student is dependent or independent.
 (6) Financial assistance from or a loan made by a parent or family member other than an independent spouse, if used for sustenance of the student:
 (a) Shall not be considered in establishing a student as independent; and
 (b) Shall be a factor in establishing that a student is dependent.
 Section 6. Effect of a Determination of Dependent Status on a Determination of Residency Status. (1) The effect of a determination that a person is dependent shall be:
 (a) The domicile and residency of a dependent person shall be the same as either parent. The domicile and residency of the parent shall be determined in the same manner as the domicile and residency of an independent person.
 (b) The domicile and residency of a dependent person whose parents are divorced, separated, or otherwise living apart shall be Kentucky if either parent is domiciled in and is a resident of Kentucky regardless of which parent has legal custody or is entitled to claim that person as a dependent pursuant to federal or Kentucky income tax provisions.
 (2)(a) If the parent or parents of a dependent person are Kentucky residents and are domiciled in Kentucky but subsequently move from the state, the dependent person 
shall be considered a resident of Kentucky while in continuous enrollment at the degree level in which currently enrolled.
 (b) If continuous enrollment is broken or the current degree level is completed, the dependent person’s residency status shall be reassessed when the circumstances detailed in subparagraph 1 of this paragraph are present.
 Section 7. Member of Armed Forces of the United States, Spouse and Dependents; Effect on a Determination of Residency Status. (1) A member, spouse, or dependent of a member whose domicile and residency was Kentucky at the time of induction into the Armed Forces of the United States, and who maintains Kentucky as home of record and permanent address, shall be entitled to Kentucky residency status:
 (a) During the time of active service; or
 (b) If the member, spouse, or dependent returns to this state within six (6) months of the date of the member’s discharge from active duty.
 (2)(a) A member, spouse or dependent of a member of the Armed Forces of the United States stationed in Kentucky on active military orders shall be considered a Kentucky resident while the member is on active duty in this state pursuant to those orders if the member is not:
 1. Stationed in Kentucky for the purpose of enrollment at an institution; or
 2. On temporary assignment of less than one (1) year.
 (b) A member, spouse or dependent of a member, shall not lose Kentucky residency status if the member is thereafter transferred on military orders while the member, spouse or dependent requesting the status is in continuous enrollment at the degree level in which currently enrolled.
 (3) Membership in the National Guard or civilian employment at a military base alone shall not qualify a person for Kentucky residency status under the provisions of subsections (1) and (2) of this section.
 (4) A person’s residency status established pursuant to this section shall be reassessed if the qualifying condition is terminated.
 Section 8. Status of Nonresident Aliens; Visas and Immigration. (1)(a) A person holding a permanent residency visa or classified as a political refugee shall establish domicile and residency in the same manner as another person.
 (b) Time spent in Kentucky and progress made in fulfilling the conditions of domicile and residency prior to obtaining permanent residency status shall be considered in establishing Kentucky domicile and residency.
 (2) A person holding a nonimmigrant visa with designation A, E, G, H-1, H-4 if accompanying a person with an H-1 visa, I, K, L, N, R, shall establish domicile and residency the same as another person.
 (3)(a) An independent person holding a nonimmigrant visa with designation B, C, D, F, H-2, H-3, H-4 if accompanying a person with an H-2 or H-3 visa, J, M, O, P, Q, S, TD or TN shall not be classified as a Kentucky resident, because that person does not have the capacity to remain in Kentucky indefinitely and therefore cannot form the requisite intent necessary to establish domicile within the meaning of this administrative regulation.
 (b) A dependent person holding a visa as described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, but who is a dependent of a parent holding a visa as described in subsection (2) of this section, shall be considered as holding the visa of the parent.
 (c) A dependent person holding a visa described in subsection (2) of this section or paragraph (a) of this subsection, if a parent is a citizen of the United States and is a resident of and domiciled in Kentucky, shall be a resident of Kentucky for the purposes of this administrative regulation.
 (4) A person shall be a Kentucky resident for the purpose of this administrative regulation if the person graduated from a Kentucky high school and:
 (a) Is an undocumented alien;
 (b) Holds a visa listed in subsections (2) or (3)(a) of this section; or
 (c) Is a dependent of a person who holds a visa listed in subsections (2) or (3)(a) of this section.
 (5)(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, a person who has petitioned the federal government to reclassify visa status shall continue to be ineligible until the petition has been decided by the federal government.
 (b) A person who has petitioned the federal government to reclassify visa status based on a marriage to a Kentucky resident and who can demonstrate that the petition has been filed and acknowledged by the federal government, may establish Kentucky domicile and residency at that time.
 Section 9. Beneficiaries of a Kentucky Educational Savings Plan Trust. A beneficiary of a Kentucky Educational Savings Plan Trust shall be granted residency status if the beneficiary meets the requirements of KRS 164A.330(6).
 Section 10. Criteria Used in a Determination of Residency Status. (1) A determination of Kentucky domicile and residency shall be based upon verifiable circumstances or actions. A single fact shall not be paramount, and each situation shall be evaluated to identify those facts essential to the determination of domicile and residency.
 (2) The following facts, although not conclusive, shall have probative value in their entirety and shall be individually weighted, appropriate to the facts and circumstances in each determination of residency:
 (a) Acceptance of an offer of full-time employment or transfer to an employer in Kentucky or contiguous area while maintaining residence and domicile in Kentucky;
 (b) Continuous physical presence in Kentucky while in a nonstudent status for the twelve (12) months immediately preceding the start of the academic term for which a classification of Kentucky residency is sought;
 (c)1. Filing of Kentucky resident income tax return for the calendar year preceding the date of application for a change in residency status; or
 2. Payment of Kentucky withholding taxes while employed during the calendar year for which a change in classification is sought;
 (d) Full-time employment of at least one (1) year while living in Kentucky;
 (e) Attendance as a full-time, nonresident student at an out-of-state institution based on a determination by that school that the person is a resident of Kentucky;
 (f) Abandonment of a former domicile or residence and establishing domicile and residency in Kentucky with application to or attendance at an institution following and incidental to the change in domicile and residency;
 (g) Obtaining licensing or certification for a professional and occupational purpose in Kentucky;
 (h) Payment of real property taxes in Kentucky;
 (i) Ownership of real property in Kentucky, if the property was used by the student as a residence preceding the date of application for a determination of residency status;
 (j) Long-term lease of at least twelve (12) consecutive months of noncollegiate housing;
 (k) Marriage of an independent student to a person who was domiciled in and a resident of Kentucky prior to the marriage;
 (l) Continued presence in Kentucky during academic breaks; and
 (m) The extent to which a student is dependent on student financial aid in order to provide basic sustenance.
 (3) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, the following facts, because of the ease and convenience in completing them, shall have limited probative value in a determination that a person is domiciled in and is a resident of Kentucky:
 (a) Kentucky automobile registration;
 (b) Kentucky driver’s license; and
 (c) Registration as a Kentucky voter.
 (4) The absence of a fact contained in subsection (3) of this section shall have significant probative value in determining that a student is not domiciled in or is not a resident of Kentucky.
 (5) A person shall not be determined to be a Kentucky resident by the performance of an act which is incidental to fulfilling an educational purpose or by an act performed as a matter of convenience. Mere physical presence in Kentucky, including living with a relative or friend, shall not be sufficient evidence of domicile and residency. A person shall respond to all information requested by an institution.
 Section 11. Effect of a Change in Circumstances on Residency Status. (1) If a person becomes independent or if the residency status of a parent or parents of a dependent person changes, an institution shall reassess residency either upon a request by the student or a review initiated by the institution.
 (2) Upon transfer to a Kentucky institution, a student’s residency status shall be assessed by the receiving institution.
 (3) A reconsideration of a determination of residency status for a dependent person shall be subject to the provisions for continuous enrollment, if applicable.
 Section 12. Student Responsibilities. (1) A student shall report under the proper residency classification which includes the following actions:
 (a) Raising a question in a timely manner concerning residency classification;
 (b) Making application for change of residency classification in a timely manner with the designated office or person at the institution; and
 (c) Notifying the designated office or person at the institution immediately upon a change in residency.
 (2) If a student fails to notify an institutional official of a change in residency, an institutional official may investigate and evaluate the student’s residency status.
 (3)(a) If a student fails to provide, by the date specified by the institution, information required by an institution in a determination of residency status, the student shall be notified by the institution that the review has been canceled and that a determination has been made.
 (b) Notification shall be made by registered mail, return receipt requested.
 (c) Notification shall be made within ten (10) calendar days after the deadline for receipt of materials has passed.
 (4) A student shall not be entitled to appeal a determination of residency status if the determination made by an institution is because a student has failed to meet published deadlines for the submission of information as set forth in subsection (3) of this section. A student may request a review of a determination of residency status in a subsequent academic term.
 Section 13. Institutional Responsibilities. Each institution shall:
 (1) Provide for an administrative appeals process that includes a residency appeals officer to consider student appeals of an initial residency determination and which shall include a provision of fourteen (14) days for the student to appeal the residency appeals officer’s determination;
 (2) Establish a residency review committee to consider appeals of residency determinations by the residency appeals officer. The residency review committee shall make a determination of student residency status and notify the student in writing within forty-five (45) days after receipt of the student appeal;
 (3) Establish a formal hearing process as described in Section 14 of this administrative regulation; and
 (4) Establish written policies and procedures for administering the responsibilities established in subsections (1), (2), and (3) of this section and that are:
 (a) Approved by the institution’s governing board;
 (b) Made available to all students; and
 (c) Filed with the council.
 Section 14. Formal Institutional Hearing. (1) A student who appeals a determination of residency by a residency review committee shall be granted a formal hearing by an institution if the request is made by a student in writing within fourteen (14) calendar days after notification of a determination by a residency review committee.
 (2) If a request for a formal hearing is received, an institution shall appoint a hearing officer to conduct a formal hearing. The hearing officer:
 (a) Shall be a person not involved in determinations of residency at an institution except for formal hearings; and
 (b) Shall not be an employee in the same organizational unit as the residency appeals officer.
 (3) An institution shall have written procedures for the conduct of a formal hearing that have been adopted by the board of trustees or regents, as appropriate, and that provide for:
 (a) A hearing officer to make a recommendation on a residency appeal;
 (b) Guarantees of due process to a student that include:
 1. The right of a student to be represented by legal counsel; and
 2. The right of a student to present information and to present testimony and information in support of a claim of Kentucky residency; and
 (c) A recommendation to be issued by the hearing officer.
 (4) An institution’s formal hearing procedures shall be filed with the Council on Postsecondary Education and shall be available to a student requesting a formal hearing.
 Section 15. Cost of Formal Hearings. (1) An institution shall pay the cost for all residency determinations including the cost of a formal hearing.
 (2) A student shall pay for the cost of all legal representation in support of the student’s claim of residency. (17 Ky.R. 2557; eff. 4-5-91; Am. 22 Ky.R. 1656; 1988; eff. 5-16-96; 23 Ky.R. 3380; 3797; 4099; eff. 6-16-97; 24 Ky.R. 2136; 2705; 25 Ky.R. 51; eff. 7-13-98; 25 Ky.R. 2177; 2577; 2827; eff. 6-7-99; 749; 1238; eff. 11-12-2002.)

For additional information, write or call the Registrar’s Office, Murray State University, PO Box 9, Murray KY 42071-0009; 270-762-3741 or registrar@murraystate.edu.

The affidavit for a review of residency can be found at the Registrar’s web page: