Common Data Set · Section C7

Which colleges consider state residency in admissions?

Of the 143 colleges with Common Data Set filings in Trajecta's dataset, 7 rate state residency very important in their admissions decisions, 10 rate it important, 71 considered, and 55 say it is not considered — as self-reported in each school's CDS section C7 ("State residency").

What "State residency" means

State residency is whether you are an in-state or out-of-state applicant. It matters almost exclusively at public universities, many of which are mandated to enroll a minimum share of in-state students — making admission standards genuinely different for the two groups. Private colleges almost universally mark it "not considered".

Very Important7 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

Important10 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

Considered71 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

Show 59 more colleges

Not Considered55 colleges, sorted by Trajecta rank

Show 43 more colleges

State residency: frequently asked questions

Do public universities favor in-state applicants?

Many do, often by mandate: state legislatures require flagship universities to reserve most seats for residents, which can make out-of-state admission notably more selective (or occasionally the reverse, where out-of-state tuition is prized). The C7 ratings here show which publics formally consider residency.

Does state residency matter at private colleges?

Essentially never as a preference — private colleges nearly all mark it "not considered" on their Common Data Set. Where you live can still matter as geographic diversity, which is a separate C7 factor.

Which colleges consider state residency in admissions?

Of the 143 colleges with Common Data Set filings in Trajecta's dataset, 7 rate state residency very important in admissions, 10 rate it important, 71 considered, and 55 say it is not considered. Colleges rating it very important include Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus, University of Virginia-Main Campus, William & Mary, Clemson University, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Other admission factors

Rigor of secondary school record Class rank Academic GPA Standardized test scores Application essay Recommendation(s)Interview Extracurricular activities Talent/ability Character/personal qualities First generation Alumni/ae relation Geographical residence Religious affiliation/commitment Volunteer work Work experience Level of applicant's interest

All admission factors

Ratings are self-reported by each college in its Common Data Set, section C7. Every school links to its full data page. Explore the college rankings →