Financial Information

The annual State Appropriation Act imposes the general requirement that student fees be fixed by the University Board of Trustees. The act imposes two specific requirements on the board: (1) In fixing fees applicable to academic and general maintenance and operation costs, the board must maintain a minimum student fee not less than the fee charged the previous year. (2) In fixing fees applicable to residential community assignments, meal plans, infirmary, and all other personal subsistence expenses, the Board must charge students an amount sufficient to cover fully the cost of providing such facilities and services.

The tuition and fees for all students-full-time or part-time and auditing-are available at www.clemson.edu/cfo/student-financials/. Satisfactory settlement of all expenses is a requirement for completing each semester’s class registration, and no student is officially enrolled until all past due accounts have been satisfied. Financial aid cannot be used to satisfy balances forward from a prior academic year.

Currently enrolled students who expect to continue enrollment may sign up for university housing and dining during the fall semester. For more information visit www.clemson.edu/housing-dining/.

Newly accepted students who plan to reside in on-campus housing may sign up at www.clemson.edu/housing-dining/. Please note the freshman housing requirement in the Admission  section. When signing up for university housing and dining, newly accepted students are required to pay a one-time, nonrefundable housing application fee of $150, and must pay the $200 admission deposit prior to signing up for housing and dining. The admission deposit is deducted from the amount otherwise due for the first semester expenses. (Note: Policies regarding priority to/offering of on-campus housing are subject to change without notice.)

Academic Program Fees and Program Enrichment Fees

A number of colleges and departments require students to pay an academic program fee or program enrichment fee to fund significant infrastructure and program enhancements, educational experiences and student engagement opportunities. For detailed information about these fees, please visit http://www.clemson.edu/finance/student-financials/tuition-fees/index.html or click on the links below.

College of Business: https://www.clemson.edu/business/current-students/fees.html

College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences: https://www.clemson.edu/cecas/current-students/academic-program-fee.html

Department of Food, Nutrition and Packaging Sciences: http://www.clemson.edu/cafls/departments/fnps/students/program_fee.html

School of Design and Building-Architecture, Construction Science and Management, and Landscape Architecture: http://www.clemson.edu/caah/current-students/program-enrichment-fee.html

School of Nursing: https://www.clemson.edu/cbshs/departments/nursing/academics/academic-program-fees.html

Tuition and Fees

Detailed tuition and fee information is available at www.clemson.edu/cfo/student-financials/. Note: A late payment fee will be assessed if fees are not satisfied by published deadlines.

Full-Time Fees

Students must be enrolled in 12 semester hours to pay full-time fees. Students enrolled in less than 12 hours or who drop below 12 hours may become ineligible for some student services, financial aid, or other programs.

Part-Time Fees

Students taking less than 12 semester credit hours will be charged according to the schedule at www.clemson.edu/cfo/student-financials/. These fees do not provide for admission to athletic events, concert series, and other such activities.

Notice to Customers Making Payment by Check

If a check is mailed for payment, it may be converted into an electronic funds transfer (EFT). This means a copy of the check will be made and the account information will be used to debit the bank account electronically for the amount of the check. The debit from the bank account will usually occur within 24 hours and will be shown on the drawer’s bank account statement. The original check will not be returned to the drawer. It will be destroyed, but Student Financial Services will retain a copy of it. If the EFT cannot be processed for technical reasons, the drawer authorizes the University to process the copy in place of the original check. If the EFT cannot be completed due to insufficient funds, the University may try twice more to make the transfer. A returned item fee of $30 will be charged and collected by EFT.

Returned Checks, EFTs, and Credit Card Payments

A check, EFT, or credit card given in payment of University expenses that is returned unpaid by the bank creates an indebtedness to the University.

Student Financial Services will re-present returned items for payment of academic fees. A $30 fee will be charged for each returned item. If a check is returned or dishonored for any reason, the student’s account may be debited electronically for the amount of the check plus the $30 returned item fee.

If the item is returned to the University in a timely manner with no response from the student or drawer, a written request to disenroll the student will be made to the Registrar. If the request is approved, the percentage of refund will be applied to the debt. If the item is returned after the mid-point of the semester with no response, a decision will be made by the Director of Student Financial Services and the Registrar as to the effect of disenrollment. The University may restrict subsequent payment for academic and other fees by accepting only cash, certified checks, or money orders.

Any individual who uses a two-party check for payment of University expenses will be held responsible for that check if it is returned unpaid by the bank. Items used as payment for various University services such as meal plans, housing, etc., that are later returned unpaid by the bank, give the University the right to cancel such services and cause forfeiture of any refund.

Any returned items not collected by the above procedures may be turned over to a collection agency, the indebtedness reported to a credit bureau and collection fees will be added to the account. Transcripts and diplomas will be withheld pending payment, and the debt may be deducted from state income tax refunds.

Abuse of check payment privileges may result in the restriction of such privileges for an indefinite period of time based on the frequency and/or dollar amount, as determined by Student Financial Services.

Past Due Accounts

Any indebtedness to the University that becomes past due, immediately jeopardizes the student’s enrollment, and no such student will be permitted to re-enroll for an ensuing semester or summer term. Billing fees and/or collection fees may be added to the indebtedness. Further, any student who fails to pay all indebtedness, including collection fees, to the University may not be issued a transcript or diploma. Unresolved debts may be turned over to a collection agency, reported to a credit bureau, and deducted from state income tax refunds. Debts include, but are not limited to, parking violations, library fines, rent, and academic fees.

Refund of Academic Fees

(Tuition, University Fee, and Health Fee) for Students Withdrawing, Dropping to Part Time, or Part-Time Students Dropping Credit Hours

No refunds will be made on a semester’s tuition and fees after four weeks from the last day to register. In the case of a withdrawal from the University, refunds will be based on the date the student drops their course(s) using the on-line registration system. In the case of a withdrawal from a course, refunds will be based on the date the student drops the course using the on-line registration system. To be eligible for a refund, the student’s drop must post prior to the beginning of the next fall or spring semester or subsequent summer term. Beginning with the day following the last day to register, refunds for periods of four weeks or less during fall/spring semester shall be made on the following basis. Students receiving Title IV Financial Aid follow a different policy.

Refund of Dining Hall Fees

See the section on Dining.

Cancellations of the Housing Contract for All New Students

Cancellation of the Contract. The academic year contract may be canceled for the following reasons only: (a) Failure to enroll, withdrawal from Clemson University; or, (b) Transferring to another college or university; or, (c) Marriage (no more than four weeks prior to the wedding date); or, (d) Circumstances determined by the University to be sufficiently extenuating as to warrant cancellation (documentary evidence will be required). Student bills, for students qualifying for cancellation under paragraph 5(a), will be adjusted appropriately based on the current Housing cancellation fee schedule and the circumstances of cancellation. Students who sign contracts after May 15, 2017 are subject to all cancellation procedures and may be subject to cancellation charges. There will be no refund of University Housing monies during the last six weeks of the/a semester during the contract term as noted in section 1. For additional information, visit http://housing.clemson.edu/contracts-2/.

Appeals Committee

Please visit the Housing & Dining website and follow the navigation to the Appeals Process for forms and instructions.

Continuing students have the option to cancel their electronically signed contract within 72 hours of receiving their assignment notification, which is sent to the student’s Clemson University email address. After 72 hours, the contract is legally binding for the term outlined in the contract and addenda.

Students are encouraged first to contact the Main Office with concerns regarding the contract cancellation process. If the concerns are not resolved satisfactorily, the student is encouraged to submit such concerns to the Appeals Committee.

Proper Notice of Cancellation Request

Students who desire to request cancellation of this contract must contact University Housing and Dining at 864-656-2295 or clemsonhome@clemson.edu for instructions.

Refunds of Financial Aid for Students Withdrawing from the University

Refunds of academic fees are made in accordance with semester and summer session refund policies. University housing refunds are made according to the policy outlined in the student’s contract and addendum. For a copy of the contract and addendum, visit clemson.edu/housing-dining. Meal plan refunds are made on a pro rata basis.

Since financial aid is expected to meet or help meet educational costs, any academic fee, housing, or meal plan fee for students withdrawing from the University up to the amount of financial aid received for that semester or summer session, will be refunded to the Financial Aid Program(s) from which the student received assistance.

Students receiving Title IV Funds (Federal Pell Grant, Federal SEOG, Federal Perkins, Federal Direct Loans-unsub or sub) or Federal Plus Loans who withdraw from the University are subject to the Return of Title IV Funds regulations. Students with funds from any of these programs earn their financial aid dollars while enrolled. If a student withdraws prior to completing more than 60% of a term, a prorated portion of the federal financial aid dollars must be considered unearned and returned to the federal programs and could cause students to owe the University a significant amount upon withdrawal.

In addition to the amount of federal aid that Clemson must return, students who received financial aid for other educational costs, including off-campus living expenses, may be required to repay a portion of those funds to the federal programs. Failure to return aid owed to the federal aid programs may result in loss of eligibility for federal aid assistance.

Federal aid funds to be returned are distributed to the programs in the following order:

• Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loan
• Subsidized Federal Direct Loan
• Federal Perkins Loan
• Federal Plus Loan
• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal SEOG
• Other Title IV Programs
• Non-Title IV Programs

After the refund has been applied to the Title IV and non-Title IV programs, any refund balance will be refunded to the student.

If debts were incurred before withdrawing, such as bad checks, unpaid traffic or library fines, etc., the refund will cover these obligations first. Academic fees, housing, and meal plan refunds for students withdrawing will be paid to the student.

Resident Tuition and Fees

Application for Resident Status

Any undergraduate student or prospective student whose status concerning entitlement to payment of in-state tuition and fees is uncertain has the responsibility of securing a ruling from the University by providing all relevant information on special application forms. These forms can be obtained online, and are to be completed and returned to that office prior to the first day of class for any semester or summer term for which the student is attempting to qualify for payment of the in-state tuition and fee rate. For more information, visit clemson.edu/financial-aid/residency/index.html. Applications take several weeks to review once all documentation has been submitted. In order to receive a decision by the date bills are due, you must submit your application by the recommended deadlines: June 15 for fall, November 1 for spring, and April 15 for summer.

Entitlement

Eligibility for payment of in-state tuition and fees shall be determined under the provisions of Sections 59-112-10 through 59-112-100, South Carolina Code of Laws, 1976, as amended. This law is set forth in its entirety as follows (subject to further amendment by the General Assembly). The residency office uses the SC Regulations 62-600 through 62-612 and guidance from the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education to make determination of an application.

The federal government passed Section 702 of the Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act of 2014 (Choice Act) that required state compliance by July 2015. South Carolina Act 11 allows a student to pay in-state tuition if the student or parent is a veteran discharged within three years of college enrollment. The student must be using his/her or his/her parent’s Chapter 30 or 33 veteran’s benefits. Also, the student must document his/her domicile in the state if living off campus. Once approved, the student will be monitored each semester to determine that he/ she is still using Chapter 30 or 33 veteran’s benefits. If the benefits are exhausted or are not used, the student will revert to nonresident status. Students paying in-state fees under Act 11 are ineligible for South Carolina state scholarships. The application and instructions can be found on the residency classification website.

Statutes

59-112-10-Definitions. As used in this chapter:

1. The words “State Institution” shall mean those post-secondary educational institutions under the jurisdiction of the following: (1) Board of Trustees, Clemson University; (2) Board of Trustees, Medical University of South Carolina; (3) Board of Trustees, South Carolina State College; (4) State College Board of Trustees; (5) Board of Visitors, The Citadel; (6) Board of Trustees, University of South Carolina; (7) Board of Trustees, Winthrop University; and (8) State Board of Technical and Comprehensive Education.
2. The word “student” shall mean any person enrolled for studies in any state institution.
3. The word “residence” or “reside” shall mean continuous and permanent physical presence within this State, provided, that temporary absences for short periods of time shall not affect the establishment of a residence.
4. The word “domicile” shall mean a person’s true, fixed, principal residence and place of habitation; it shall indicate the place where such person intends to remain, and to which such person expects to return upon leaving without establishing a new domicile in another state. For purposes of this section one may have only one legal domicile; one is presumed to abandon automatically an old domicile upon establishing a new one. Housing provided on an academic session basis for students at State institutions shall be presumed not to be a place of principal residence, as residency in such housing is by nature temporary.
5. The words “in-state rates” shall mean charges for tuition and fees established by State Institutions for persons who are domiciled in South Carolina in accordance with this act; the words “out-of-state rates” shall mean charges for tuition and fees established by State Institutions for persons who are not domiciled in South Carolina in accordance with this act.
6. The words “independent person” shall mean a person in his majority, or an emancipated minor, whose predominant source of income is his own earnings or income from employment, investments, or payments from trusts, grants, scholarships, loans, or payments of alimony or separate maintenance made pursuant to court order.
7. The words “dependent” or “dependent person” mean: (1) one whose financial support is provided not through his own earnings or entitlements, but whose predominant source of income or support is payments from a parent, spouse, or guardian, and who qualifies as a dependent or an exemption on the federal tax return of the parent, spouse, or guardian; or (2) one for whom payments are made, under court order, for child support and the cost of his college education by an independent person meeting the provisions of Section 59-112-20 A or B. However, the words “dependent” or “dependent person” do not include a spouse or former spouse who is the recipient of alimony or separate maintenance payments made pursuant to court order.
8. The word “minor” shall mean a person who has not attained the age of eighteen years; and the words “emancipated minor” shall mean a minor whose parents have entirely surrendered the right to the care, custody and earnings of such minor and are no longer under any legal obligation to support or maintain such minor.
9. The word “parent” shall mean a person’s natural or adoptive father or mother; or if one parent has custody of the child, the parent having custody; or if there is a guardian or other legal custodian of such person, then such guardian or legal custodian; provided, however, that where circumstances indicate that such guardianship or custodianship was created primarily for the purpose of conferring South Carolina domicile for tuition and fee purposes on such child or dependent person, it shall not be given such effect.
10. The word “spouse” shall mean the husband or wife of a married person.

59-112-20-South Carolina Domicile Defined for Purposes of Rates of Tuition and Fees. South Carolina domicile for tuition and fee purposes shall be established as follows in determinations of rates of tuition and fees to be paid by students entering or attending State Institutions:

1. Independent persons who reside in and have been domiciled in South Carolina for a period of no less than twelve months with an intention of making a permanent home herein, and their dependents, may be considered eligible for in-state rates.
2. Independent persons who reside in and have been domiciled in South Carolina for fewer than twelve months but who have full-time employment in the State, and their dependents, may be considered eligible for in-state rates for as long as such independent person is employed on a full-time basis in the State.
3. Where an independent person meeting the provisions of Section 59-112-20 B above, is living apart from his spouse, or where such person and his spouse are separated or divorced, the spouse and dependents of such independent person shall have domiciliary status for tuition and fee purposes only under the following circumstances: (1) if the spouse requesting domiciliary status for tuition and fee purposes remains domiciled in South Carolina although living apart or separated from his or her employed spouse, (2) if the dependent requesting domiciliary status for tuition and fee purposes is under the legal custody or guardianship, as defined in Section 59-112-10I above, of an independent person who is domiciled in this State; or if such dependent is claimed as an income tax exemption by the parent not having legal custody but paying child-support, so long as either parent remains domiciled in South Carolina.
4. The residence and domicile of a dependent minor shall be presumed to be that of the parent of such dependent minor.

59-112-30-Effect of Change of Residency. When the domicile of a student or of the person upon whom a student is financially dependent changes after enrollment at a State Institution, tuition charges shall be adjusted as follows:

1. Except as provided in Section 59-112-20B above, when domicile is taken in South Carolina, a student shall not become eligible for in-state rates until the beginning of the next academic session after expiration of twelve months from date of domicile in this State.
2. When South Carolina domicile is lost, eligibility for in-state rates shall end on the last day of the academic session in which the loss occurs; however, application of this subsection shall be at the discretion of the institution involved.
3. Notwithstanding the other provisions of this section, any dependent person who has been domiciled with his family in South Carolina for a period of not less than three years immediately prior to his enrollment may enroll in a state-supported institution of higher learning at the in-state rate and may continue to be enrolled at such rate even if the parent, spouse, or guardian upon whom he is dependent moves his domicile from this State.

59-112-40-Effect of Marriage. Except as provided in Section 59-112-20 above, marriage shall affect determinations of domicile for tuition and fee purposes only insofar as it operates to evince an intention by the parties to make a permanent home in South Carolina.

59-112-50-Military Personnel and Their Dependents. Notwithstanding other provisions of this act, during the period of their assignment to duty in South Carolina members of the armed services of the United States stationed in South Carolina and their dependents may be considered eligible for in-state rates. When such armed service personnel are ordered away from the State, their dependents may continue for an additional twelve months to have this eligibility at the State Institutions where they are enrolled at the time such assignment ends. Such persons and their dependents may be considered eligible for in-state rates for a period of twelve months after their discharge from the armed services even though they were not enrolled at a State Institution at the time of their discharge, if they have evinced an intent to establish domicile in South Carolina and if they have resided in South Carolina for a period of at least twelve months immediately preceding their discharge.

59-112-60-Faculty, Administrative Employees and Dependents Thereof. Full-time faculty and administrative employees of State Institutions, and the spouses and children of such persons, shall be excluded from the provision of this act.

59-112-70-Abatement of Rates for Nonresidents on Scholarship. Notwithstanding other provisions of this act, the governing boards listed in Section 59-112-10A above, are authorized to adopt policies for the abatement of any part or all of the out-of-state rates for students who are recipients of scholarship aid.

59-112-80-Administration of Chapter; Burden of Proving Eligibility of Students. Each State Institution shall designate an official to administer the provisions of this act. Students making application to pay tuition and fees at in-state rates shall have the burden of proving to the satisfaction of the aforesaid officials of State Institutions that they have fulfilled the requirements of this act before they shall be permitted to pay tuition and fees at such rate.

59-112-90-Penalties for Willful Misrepresentation. Where it appears to the satisfaction of officials charged with administration of these provisions that a person has gained domiciliary status improperly by making or presenting willful misrepresentations of fact, such persons should be charged tuition and fees past due and unpaid at the out-of-state rate, plus interest at a rate of eight percent per annum, plus a penalty amounting to twenty-five percent of the out-of-state rate for one semester; and until these charges have been paid no such student shall be allowed to receive transcripts or graduate from any State Institution.

59-112-100-Regulations. The Commission on Higher Education may prescribe uniform regulations for application of the provisions of this act and may provide for annual review of such regulations.

Article V

Determination of Rates of Tuition and Fees

(Statutory Authority: 1976 Code Sections 59-112-10 to 59-112-100)

62-600. Rates of Tuition and Fees. 

A. Resident classification is an essential part of tuition and fee determination, admission regulations, scholarship eligibility, and other relevant policies of the state. It is important that institutions have fair and equitable regulations that can be administered consistently and are sensitive to the interests of both students and the state. The Commission on Higher Education hereby establishes regulations for the Statute

Governing Residency for Tuition and Fee Purposes to be applied consistently by all South Carolina institutions of higher education. These regulations do not address residency matters relating to in county categories used within the State’s technical colleges.  

B. Institutions of higher education are required by the Statute to determine the residence classification of applicants. The initial determination of one’s resident status is made at the time of admission. The determination made at that time, and any determination made thereafter, prevails for each subsequent semester until information becomes available that would impact the existing residency status and the determination is successfully challenged. The burden of proof rests with the students to show evidence as deemed necessary to establish and maintain their residency status.

62-601. Code of Laws Governing Residence.  Rules regarding the establishment of legal residence for tuition and fee purposes for institutions of higher education are governed by Title 59, Chapter 112 of the 1976 South Carolina Code of Laws, as amended.
 
62-602. Definitions.
A. “Academic Session” is defined as a term or semester of enrollment. (62-607.B)

B. “Continue to be Enrolled” is defined as continuous enrollment without an interruption that would require the student to pursue a formal process of readmission to that institution. Formal petitions or applications for change of degree level shall be considered readmissions. (62-607.A)

C. “Dependent Person” is defined as one whose predominant source of income or support is from payments from a parent, spouse, or guardian, who claims the dependent person on his/her federal income tax return. In the case of those individuals who are supported by family members who do not earn enough reportable income for taxation purposes, a dependent person can be defined as one who qualifies as a dependent or exemption on the federal income tax return of the parent, spouse, or guardian. A dependent person is also one for whom payments are made, under court order, for child support and the cost of the dependent person’s college education. A dependent person’s residency is presumed to be that of the person upon whom they are dependent. (62-602.G) (62-602.N) (62-603.B) (62-605.C) (62-607.A)

D. “Domicile” is defined as the true, fixed, principal residence and place of habitation. It shall indicate the place where a person intends to remain, or to where one expects to return upon leaving without establishing a new domicile in another state. For purposes of this section, one may have only one legal domicile. One is presumed to abandon automatically an old domicile upon establishing a new one. Housing provided on an academic session basis for student at institutions shall be presumed not to be a place of principal residence, as residency in such housing is by its nature temporary. (62-602.E) (62-602.K) (62-602.M) (62-602.N) (62-603.A) (62.603.B) (62-605.B) (62-605.C) (62-607.A) (62-607.B) (62-608.A) (62-608.C) (62-608.D) (62-609.A.3) (62-609.A.4)

E. “Full time employment” is defined as employment that consists of at least thirty seven and one half hours a week on a single job in a full time status, with gross earnings of at least minimum wage. However, a person who works less than thirty seven and one half hours a week but receives or is entitled to receive full time employee benefits shall be considered to be employed full time if such status is verified by the employer. A person who meets the eligibility requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act must present acceptable evidence that they satisfy their prescribed employment specifications in order to qualify as having full time employment. (62-605.C.1) (62-609.A.2) (62-609.A.3)

F. “Guardian” is defined as one legally responsible for the care and management of the person or property of a minor child based upon the five tests for dependency prescribed by the Internal Revenue Service; provided, however, that where circumstances indicate that such guardianship or custodianship was created primarily for the purpose of conferring South Carolina domicile for tuition and fee purposes on such child or dependent person, it shall not be given such effect. (62-602.C) (62-602.E) (62-602.I) (62-602.M) (62-603.B) (62-605.C)

G. “Immediately Prior” is defined as the period of time between the offer of admission and the first day of class of the term for which the offer was made, not to exceed one calendar year. (62-607.A)

H. “Independent Person” is defined as one in his/her majority (eighteen years of age or older) or an emancipated minor, whose predominant source of income is his/her own earnings or income from employment, investments, or payments from trusts, grants, scholarships, commercial loans, or payments made in accordance with court order and for the purposes of determining residency for tuition and fees, an independent person: (1) must provide more than half of his or her support, which shall include the institutional cost of attendance as defined by Title IV, during the twelve months immediately prior to the date that classes begin for the semester for which resident status is requested; (2) cannot claim the domicile of another individual as their own for the purposes of establishing intent to become a South Carolina resident; (3) must have established his/her own domicile and provide documentation of establishing his/her own domicile for twelve months to include documentation of renting a domicile if applicable, prior to receiving in-state tuition and fees; and (4) cannot be claimed as a dependent or exemption on the federal tax return of his or her parent, spouse, or guardian for the year in which resident status is requested. (62-602.N) (62-603.A) (62-605.C) (62-607.B) (62-608.B)

I. “Minor” is defined as a person who has not attained the age of eighteen years. An “emancipated minor” shall mean a minor whose parents have entirely surrendered the right to the care, custody and earnings of such minor and are no longer under any legal obligation to support or maintain such minor. (62-602.G)

J. “Non-resident Alien” is defined as a person who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. By virtue of their non-resident status “non-resident aliens” generally do not have the capacity to establish domicile in South Carolina. (62-602.M) (62-604.A)

K. “Parent” is defined as the father, mother, stepfather, stepmother, foster parent or parent of a legally adopted child. (62-602.C) (62-602.E) (62-602.I) (62-602.J) (62-602.M) (62-603.B) (62-603.C) (62-605.C)

L. “Reside” is defined as continuous and permanent physical presence within the State, provided that absences for short periods of time shall not affect the establishment of residence. Excluded are absences associated with requirements to complete a degree, absences for military training service, and like absences, provided South Carolina domicile is maintained. (62-603.A) (62-606.B) (62-609.A) (62-609.A.3) (62-609.A.4) (62-609.B)

M. “Resident” for tuition and fee purposes is defined as an independent person who has abandoned all prior domiciles and has been domiciled in South Carolina continuously for at least twelve months immediately preceding the first day of class of the term for which resident classification is sought and for whom there is an absence of domiciliary evidence in other states or countries, not withstanding other provisions of the Statute. (62-600.A) (62-600.B) (62-602.I) (62-602.K) (62-602.M) (62-603.A) (62-603.B) (62-603.C) (62-604.A) (62-605.A) (62-605.C) (62-605.C.7) (62-606.A) (62-606.A.5) (62-606.B) (62-607.A) (62-608.B) (62-609.A.3) (62-610.A) (62-610.B) (62-611.A) (62-611.B) 

N. “Spouse” is defined as the husband or wife of a married person in accordance with Title 20, Chapter 1 of the 1976 South Carolina Code of Laws, as amended. (62-602.C) (62-602.E) (62-602.I) (62-602.M) (62-603.B) (62-605.C)

O. “Temporary Absence” is defined as a break in enrollment during a fall or spring semester (or its equivalent) during which a student is not registered for class. (62-606.A)

P. “Terminal Leave” is defined as a transition period following active employment and immediately preceding retirement (with a pension or annuity), during which the individual may use accumulated leave. (62-609.A.4)

Q. “United States Armed Forces” is defined as the United States Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard. (62-606.B) (62-609.A(1))

R. “Trust” is defined as a legal entity created by a grantor for the benefit of designated beneficiaries under the laws of the state and the valid trust instrument. However, that where circumstances indicate that such trust was created primarily for the purpose of conferring South Carolina domicile for tuition and fee purposes on such child or independent person, it shall not be given such effect.
 
62-603. Establishing Residency, Citizens and Permanent Residents. 

A. Independent persons who have physically resided and been domiciled in South Carolina for twelve continuous months immediately preceding the date the classes begin for the semester for which resident status is claimed may qualify to pay in state tuition and fees. The twelve month residency period starts when the independent person establishes the intent to become a South Carolina resident per Section 62-605 entitled “Establishing the Requisite Intent to Become a South Carolina Domiciliary.” The twelve month residency period cannot start until the absence of indicia in other states is proven. Absences from the State during the twelve month period may affect the establishment of permanent residence for tuition and fee purposes.  

B. The resident status of a dependent person is based on the resident status of the person who provides more than half of the dependent person’s support and claims or, only in the case of those individuals who are supported by family members who do not earn enough reportable income for taxation purposes, qualifies to claim the dependent person as a dependent for federal income tax purposes. Thus, the residence and domicile of a dependent person shall be presumed to be that of their parent, spouse, or guardian.  

C. In the case of divorced or separated parents, the resident status of the dependent person may be based on the resident status of the parent who claims the dependent person as a dependent for tax purposes; or based on the resident status of the parent who has legal custody or legal joint custody of the dependent person; or based on the resident status of the person who makes payments under a court order for child support and at least the cost of his/her college tuition and fees.
 
62-604. Non-Resident Aliens, Non-Citizens, and Non-Permanent Residents.

A. Except as otherwise specified in this section or as provided in Section 62-609 (1) & (2), independent non-citizens and non-permanent residents of the United States will be assessed tuition and fees at the non-resident, out of state rate. Independent non-resident aliens, including refugees, asylees, and parolees may be entitled to resident, in state classification once they have been awarded permanent resident status by the  United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and meet all the statutory residency requirements provided that all other domiciliary requirements are met. Time spent living in South Carolina immediately prior to the awarding of permanent resident status does not count toward the twelve month residency period. Certain non resident aliens present in the United States in specified visa classifications are eligible to receive in state residency status for tuition and fee purposes as prescribed by the Commission on Higher Education. They are not, however, eligible to receive state sponsored tuition assistance/scholarships.

B. Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) serves as the primary resource for defining visa categories.
 
62-605. Establishing the Requisite Intent to Become a South Carolina Domiciliary.

A. Resident status may not be acquired by an applicant or student while residing in South Carolina for the primary purpose of enrollment in an institution or for access to state supported programs designed to serve South Carolina residents. An applicant or student from another state who comes to South Carolina usually does so for the purpose of attending school. Therefore, an applicant or student who enrolls as a non-resident in an institution is presumed to remain a non-resident throughout his or her attendance and does not qualify under any of the residency provisions.

B. If a person asserts that his/her domicile has been established in this State, the individual has the burden of proof. Such persons must provide to the designated residency official of the institution to which they are applying any and all evidence the person believes satisfies the burden of proof. The residency official will consider any and all evidence provided concerning such claim of domicile, but will not necessarily regard any single item of evidence as conclusive evidence that domicile has been established. 

C. For independent persons or the parent, spouse, or guardian of dependent persons, indicia showing intent to become a South Carolina resident may include, although any single indicator may not be conclusive, the following indicia:

(1) Statement of full time employment; 

(2) Designating South Carolina as state of legal residence on military record; 

(3) Possession of a valid South Carolina driver’s license, or if a non-driver, a South Carolina identification card. Failure to obtain this within 90 days of the establishment of the intent to become a South Carolina resident will delay the beginning date of residency eligibility until a valid South Carolina driver’s license is obtained; 

(4) Possession of a valid South Carolina vehicle registration card for every vehicle the independent person is in sole or partial ownership. Failure to obtain this within 45 days of the establishment of the intent to become a South Carolina resident will delay the beginning date of residency eligibility until the applicant obtains a valid South Carolina vehicle registrations card(s); 

(5) Maintenance of an established and current domicile in South Carolina; 

(6) Paying South Carolina income taxes as a resident during the past tax year, including income earned outside of South Carolina from the date South Carolina domicile was claimed; 

(7) Ownership of principal residence in South Carolina;  

(8) Licensing for professional practice (if applicable) in South Carolina.
 
D. The individual seeking residency must ensure that no item from the list above or any other item, reflects residency or intent to be a resident in another state or country. Having any one
item from the list above or any other item(s) reflecting residency in another state or country will delay the beginning date of residency. The absence of indicia in other states or countries is required before the student is eligible to pay in state rates.
 
62-606. Maintaining Residence.

A. A person’s temporary absence from the State does not necessarily constitute loss of South Carolina residence unless the person has acted inconsistently with the claim of continued South Carolina residence during the person’s absence from the State. The burden is on the person to show retention of South Carolina residence during the person’s absence from the State. Steps a person should take to retain South Carolina resident status for tuition and fee purposes include: 

(1) Continuing to use a South Carolina permanent address on all records;  

(2) Maintaining South Carolina driver’s license;  

(3) Maintaining South Carolina vehicle registration;  

(4) Satisfying South Carolina resident income tax obligation. Individuals claiming permanent residence in South Carolina are liable for payment of income taxes on their total income from the date that they established South Carolina residence. This includes income earned in another state or country. 
 
B. Active duty members of the United States Armed Forces and their dependents who are permanently assigned to a state outside of South Carolina on active duty are eligible to pay in state tuition and fees as long as they continuously claim South Carolina as their state of legal residence during their military service. Documentation will be required in all cases to support this claim, including an official Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) demonstrating South Carolina as the member’s state of legal residence. South Carolina residents who change their state of legal residence while in the military lose their South Carolina resident status for tuition and fee purposes.
 
62-607. Effect of Change of Residency.

A. Notwithstanding other provisions of this section, any dependent person of a legal resident of this state who has been domiciled with his/her family in South Carolina for a period of not less than three years immediately prior to his/her enrollment may enroll at the in state rate and may continue to be enrolled at such rate even if the parent, spouse or guardian upon whom he is dependent moves his domicile from this State. The student must continue to be enrolled and registered for classes (excluding summers) in order to maintain eligibility to pay in state rates in subsequent semesters. Transfers within or between South Carolina colleges and universities of a student seeking a certificate, diploma, associate, baccalaureate, or graduate level degree does not constitute a break in enrollment.

B. If domicile of an independent person in South Carolina is lost after enrollment, and information becomes available that would impact the existing residency status, eligibility for in state rates shall end on the last day of the academic session during which domicile is lost. Application of this provision shall be at the discretion of the institution involved. However, a student must continue to be enrolled and registered for classes (excluding summers) in order to maintain eligibility to pay in state rates in subsequent semesters.
 
62-608. Effect of Marriage.

A. In ascertaining domicile of a married person, irrespective of gender, such a review shall be determined just as for an unmarried person by reference to all relevant evidence of domiciliary intent. 

B. If a non-resident marries a South Carolina resident, the non-resident does not automatically acquire South Carolina resident status. The non-resident may acquire South Carolina resident status if the South Carolina resident is an independent person and the non-resident is a dependent of the South Carolina resident. 

C. Marriage to a person domiciled outside South Carolina shall not be solely the reason for precluding a person from establishing or maintaining domicile in South Carolina and subsequently becoming eligible or continuing to be eligible for residency. 

D. No person shall be deemed solely by reason of marriage to a person domiciled in South Carolina to have established or maintained domicile in South Carolina and consequently to be eligible for or to retain eligibility for South Carolina residency.
 
62-609. Exceptions.

A. Persons in the following categories qualify to pay in state tuition and fees without having to establish a permanent home in the state for twelve months. Persons who qualify under any of these categories must meet the conditions of the specific category on or before the first day of class of the term for which payment of in state tuition and fees is requested. The following categories apply only to in state tuition and do not apply to State supported scholarships and grants. Individuals who qualify for in state tuition and fees under the following exceptions do not automatically qualify for LIFE, SC HOPE or Palmetto Fellows Scholarships. 

(1) “Military Personnel and their Dependents”: Members of the United States Armed Forces who are permanently assigned in South Carolina on active duty and their dependents are eligible to pay in state tuition and fees. When such personnel are transferred from the State, their dependents may continue to pay in state tuition and fees as long as they are continuously enrolled or transfer to an eligible institution during the term or semester, excluding summer terms, immediately following their enrollment at the previous institution. In the event of a transfer, the receiving institution shall verify the decision made by the student’s previous institution in order to certify the student’s eligibility for in-state tuition rates. It is the responsibility of the transferring student to ensure that all documents required to verify both the previous and present residency decisions are provided to the institution. Members of the United States Armed Forces who are permanently assigned in South Carolina on active duty (and their dependents) may also be eligible to pay in state tuition and fees as long as they are continuously enrolled after their discharge from the military, provided they have demonstrated an intent to establish a permanent home in South Carolina and they have resided in South Carolina for a period of at least twelve months immediately preceding their discharge. Military personnel who are not stationed in South Carolina and/or former military personnel who intend to establish South Carolina residency must fulfill the twelve month “physical presence” requirement for them or their dependents to qualify to pay in state tuition and fees.  

(2) “Faculty and Administrative Employees with Full Time Employment and their Dependents”: Full time faculty and administrative employees of South Carolina state supported colleges and universities and their dependents are eligible to pay in state tuition and fees.  

(3) “Residents with Full Time Employment and their Dependents:” Persons who reside, are domiciled, and are full time employed with an employer that is physically located in the State and who continue to work full time until they meet the twelve month requirement and their dependents are eligible to pay in state tuition and fees, provided that they have taken steps to establish a permanent home in the State. Steps an independent person must take to establish residency in South Carolina are listed in Section 62-605 entitled (“Establishing the Requisite Intent to Become a South Carolina Domiciliary”).  

(4) “Retired Persons and their Dependents:” Retired persons who are receiving a pension or annuity who reside in South Carolina and have been domiciled in South Carolina as prescribed in the Statute for less than a year may be eligible for in state rates if they maintain residence and domicile in this State. Persons on terminal leave who have established residency in South Carolina may be eligible for in state rates even if domiciled in the State for less than one year if they present documentary evidence from their employer showing they are on terminal leave. The evidence should show beginning and ending dates for the terminal leave period and that the person will receive a pension or annuity when he/she retires.  

(5) “Covered Individuals Receiving Specific Education Benefits:” Covered individuals living in South Carolina, who are enrolled in a public institution of higher education and receiving educational assistance under Chapter 30 and Chapter 33, Title 38 of the United States Code, are entitled to pay in-state tuition and fees without regard to the length of time the covered individual has resided in this State. For purposes of this subsection, a covered individual is defined as: (a) a veteran who served ninety days or longer on active duty in the Uniformed Service of the United States, their respective Reserve forces, or the National Guard and who enrolls within three years of discharge; (b) a person who is entitled to and receiving assistance under Section 3319, Title 38 of the United States Code by virtue of the person’s relationship to the veteran described in subitem (a) who enrolls within three years of the veteran’s discharge; (c) a person using transferred benefits under Section 3319, Title 38 of the United States Code while the transferor is on active duty in the Uniformed Service of the United States, their respective Reserve forces, or the National Guard; or (d) a person who is entitled to and receiving assistance under Section 3311(b)(9), Title 38 of the United States Code. At the conclusion of the applicable three-year period described in this section, a covered individual shall remain eligible for in-state rates as long as he remains continuously enrolled in an in-state institution or transfers to another in-state institution during the term or semester, excluding summer terms, immediately following his enrollment at the previous in-state institution. In the event of a transfer, the in-state institution receiving the covered individual shall verify the covered individual’s eligibility for in-state rates with the covered individual’s prior in-state institution. It is the responsibility of the transferring covered individual to ensure all documents required to verify both the previous and present residency decisions are provided to the in-state institution
 
B. South Carolina residents who wish to participate in the Regional Contract Program sponsored by the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) must have continuously resided in the State for other than educational purposes for at least two years immediately preceding their submission of the residency status application and must meet all other residency requirements during this two year period. Individuals who qualify for in-state tuition and fees are not automatically classified as South Carolina residents. A determination of one’s resident status made at the time of one’s initial application to be certified as a South Carolina resident for purposes of participation in the Regional Contract Program does not prevail for each subsequent academic year. A South Carolina resident student who has been certified as a State resident for the purpose of participating in the Southern Regional Education Board Contract Program must be recertified prior to the beginning of each fall semester for each academic year for which benefits are requested.  
 
C. South Carolina residents who wish to participate in the Academic Common Market program sponsored by the Southern Regional Education Board must be a resident for at least one year, or satisfy the conditions of an exception as provided in R.62-609A(1), R.62-609A(3) or R.62-609A(4), immediately preceding application for consideration and must meet all other residency requirements during this one year period.
 
62-610. Application for Change of Resident Status.
 
A. Persons applying for a change of resident classification must complete a residency application/petition and provide supporting documentation prior to a reclassification deadline as established by the institution. 

B. The burden of proof rests with those persons applying for a change of resident classification who must show required evidence to document the change in resident status.
 
62-611. Incorrect classification.

A. Persons incorrectly classified as residents are subject to reclassification and to payment of all non-resident tuition and fees not paid. If incorrect classification results from false or concealed facts, such persons may be charged tuition and fees past due and unpaid at the out of state rate. The violator may also be subject to administrative, civil, and financial penalties. Until these charges are paid, such persons will not be allowed to receive transcripts or graduate from a South Carolina institution. 

B. Residents whose resident status changes are responsible for notifying the Residency Official of the institution attended of such changes.
 
62-612. Inquiries and Appeals.

A. Inquiries regarding residency requirements and determinations should be directed to the institutional residency official. 

B. Each institution will develop an appeals process to accommodate persons wishing to appeal residency determinations made by the institution’s residency official. Each institutions appeal process should be directed by that institutions primary residency officer, in conjunction with those individuals who practice the application of State residency regulations on a daily basis. The professional judgment of the residency officer and administrators will constitute the institutional appeal process. Neither the primary residency official nor appellate official(s) may waive the provisions of the Statute or regulation governing residency for tuition and fee purposes.
 
Fiscal Impact Statement: There will be no increased administrative costs to the state or its political subdivision.
 
Statement of Rationale:R.62-600 through 62-612 of Chapter 62 is being amended. Revisions to the existing regulation for the SC Residency Regulation are being considered to clarify the policies and procedures for administering the program. In the proposed amendment, the definition of an independent is clarified to provide flexibility for the student and institution in determining if a student meets the definition. In addition, clarification is being given to the list of items that serve as indicia of intent for South Carolina Residency. There are also additional clarifications being proposed, such as correctly identifying the Federal Agency which issues permanent residency cards to new residents of the United States. The revisions seek to promote consistency among the State institutions and their residency classification processes .

Dining

The University provides a variety of meal plans to meet student needs. The two residential dining halls available to meal plan patrons, Core Campus and Schilletter, are located in different areas of the campus and feature an all-you-care-to-eat policy per meal. Meals may also be purchased on a cash basis or by using a debit/credit card, Paw Points, or TigerStripe account. Meal Plans become effective when University Housing is opened for occupancy at the beginning of each semester. Meal Plans expire after the evening meal on the day of graduation at the end of each semester. Meal Plans are not effective during official University breaks.

Eastside Food Court, Canteen, Fernow Street Café, Einstein Bros. Bagels, and Starbucks provide a wide assortment of dining selections on an a la carte basis. Nationally branded concepts are available in dining locations on campus. For a complete list of dining locations, visit www.clemson.edu/housing-dining/. All retail dining facilities and dining halls accept cash, credit/debit, Paw Points, and TigerStripe.

All first-year students who live in University Housing, excluding apartments with kitchens, are required to subscribe to a first-year resident meal plan for their first two semesters. The meal plan selected for the fall semester is automatically added to the student’s spring bill. All other students may choose a meal plan on a semester basis or pay for individual meals. First-year students living in University Housing may terminate their meal plan for one of the following reasons ONLY:

• withdrawal from the University
• change in housing assignment to an apartment with kitchen facilities
• medical condition with dietary requirements that cannot be met by Dining. Documentation from a medical doctor must be provided along with specific dietary requirements. This documentation will be reviewed by University Housing and Dining’s Registered Dietitian and Student Disability Services
• other circumstances determined by the University to be beyond the student’s control

First-year students must provide the necessary documentation for any of the above reasons before cancellation of their meal plan will be considered. Upperclassmen may terminate their meal plans for any reason on the prescribed dates listed on Housing & Dining’s website. Failure to participate in a meal plan does not automatically release a student from the first-year student requirements listed above, all first-year students who live on campus are required to participate in one of the three meal plans that meet the first-year requirement.

If a first-year student living on campus does not sign up for one of the required resident choices, a meal plan will be assigned. All meal plans for all meal plan participants will automatically rollover to the spring semester. If an upperclassmen chooses to not to subscribe to a meal plan for the spring semester they must opt out before payment of the spring tuition statement.

Students may change meal plans during certain periods. Visit the University Housing & Dining website for applicable dates and locations. All adjustments will be prorated. Students may upgrade meal plans at anytime.

Paw Points are not refundable; however, they do carry forward to the next semester. Students will be responsible for all service charges related to changes or termination of a meal plan. Note: Meal plans may not be shared with other students. Only the meal plan purchaser may utilize his/her meal plan.

Information is available at www.clemson.edu/housing-dining/ or by calling 864-656-1237. More information is available at www.clemson.edu/tigerone, by calling 864- 656-0763, or e-mailing tigerone-card@lists.clemson.edu.

Tigerstripe Account

The TigerStripe account is a declining balance account students access using a TigerOne card and is accepted at more than 200 participating locations on and off campus. Participating merchants are listed at www.clemson.edu/tigerone. There is no daily limit on the number of purchases that may be made; however, no charges shall exceed the amount of deposited funds.

Funds may be added to a TigerStripe account via iROAR under the optional fees option, and are limited to $2500 per semester. In addition, deposits can be made online using the TigerOne Card Services website at t1online.clemson.edu, at the TigerOne Card Services office, or with cash at one of the Value Port Stations. Students can easily manage their accounts and view their balances and history  using the online card office.

TigerStripe accounts are non-transferable and remain open until a student graduates, transfers or withdraws from the university. Upon graduation, transfer or withdrawal, the balance of the account is refunded and applied to the student account. Any indebtedness to the University is be deducted from the balance remaining.

For more information about the TigerOne card and Terms and conditions, visit www.clemson.edu/tigerone. TigerOne Card Services office is located at 111 Hendrix Center, Clemson, SC 29634. Office hours are Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm.

Financial Aid

The Office of Student Financial Aid administers and coordinates various types of undergraduate financial aid administered by Clemson University: scholarships, loans, grants, and work-study employment. The office works jointly with the University Scholarships and Awards Committee.

Students may apply after October 1 for financial assistance for the next academic year. Financial aid requests, based on financial need, must be supported by a processed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and renewed annually. No application is required for the LIFE Scholarship.

The FAFSA must be submitted by January 1 for incoming freshman and April 1 for continuing students for need-based scholarships, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study, and South Carolina State Need-Based Grant. (NOTE: These dates are subject to change. Please see www.clemson.edu/finaid.)

April 1 is the suggested deadline for application for the Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Direct Loan. (NOTE: The April 1 date is subject to change. Please see www.clemson.edu/finaid.)

June 15 is the suggested deadline for application for private/alternative loans and the Federal PLUS Loan. PLUS and private loans require a separate online application.

Transfer students applying for student loans will be considered as entering freshmen in determining maximum loan limits. Following enrollment, after the credit evaluation process has been completed, students may submit a request for additional funds due to changes in class standing.

Information regarding financial aid programs at Clemson University is available at www.clemson.edu/finaid or from the Office of Student Financial Aid, G-01 Sikes Hall, Box 345123, Clemson, SC 29634-5123.

Satisfactory Academic Progress for Financial Aid Eligibility

Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress to be eligible for financial aid. This policy contains both qualitative (grade-point average) and quantitative (credit hours completed) requirements. Students must meet the grade-point average requirement as stated under the Academic Eligibility Policy, and must complete their degrees within 150% of the published time frame. Details are available at www.clemson.edu/finaid. Students wishing to appeal their academic progress status may submit a letter to the Office of Student Financial Aid. This appeals process is separate from the Appeals Committee on Academic Eligibility.

Institutional Aid Policy for Suspended Students

An undergraduate student who has been suspended from the University for a violation of the Academic Integrity Policy, or suspended from the University due to a violation of any Student Regulation as defined and enforced by the Office of Community and Ethical Standards, becomes immediately ineligible for University merit or need-based scholarship or grant aid for the remainder of the student’s undergraduate enrollment at Clemson.

Educational Benefits for Veterans, War Orphans, and Children of Deceased or Disabled Law Enforcement Officers or Fire Fighters

The Veterans Administration provides educational assistance for veterans and children of deceased or totally disabled veterans who meet requirements of applicable laws and regulations. Any veteran or child of a deceased or totally disabled veteran should communicate with the nearest Veterans Administration Office to determine whether he/she is entitled to any educational benefits. Free tuition is available to children of South Carolina law enforcement officers or fire fighters who were totally disabled or killed in the line of duty. Certification is required from the agency of the parent’s employment. Upon presentation of proof of eligibility, a student shall not become eligible for educational assistance until the beginning of the next academic term.

Educational Benefits for Senior Citizens

Senior citizens who meet the definition of legal South Carolina residency and who are at least 60 year of age may qualify for free tuition. Applicants may obtain a waiver application and an audit card (if auditing courses) from the Registrar’s Office in 102 Sikes Hall. Seniors submit the waiver application and a photocopy of their South Carolina driver’s license (showing 12 months or more of domicile) to the Office of Student Financial Aid in G-01 Sikes Hall. Seniors who are auditing courses must submit an audit card to 102 Sikes Hall each semester. The waiver application must be submitted prior to the first day of class and is not retroactive to prior terms. Questions may be directed to the Office of Student Financial Aid at finaid@clemson.edu.