Save Thousands On Out Of State Tuition By Meeting UT Austin Residency Requirements
At Tower Realty Austin, we specialize in helping families save on UT Austin* tuition by assisting out-of-state students with the Texas residency process to qualify for in-state tuition. Learn more about UT Austin* residency requirements and what you need to fulfill the proof of Texas residency requirements by downloading our free checklist 3 Easy Steps to Texas Residency below.
You Can Save Over $100K in UT Austin* Tuition Costs
At the University of Texas at Austin, there are a few different ways an out of state student can establish residency in Texas to meet the residency requirements.
At Tower Realty Austin, we specialize in helping out of state students qualify for instate tuition through a property purchase. Over the last 15+ years we’ve helped hundreds of families with the process to become a Texas resident, saving students thousands on tuition costs.
UT Austin Residency & More
Most importantly, we offer the option to continue working with you post-purchase to manage your property through our UT area Austin property management services.
Looking to save on out of state tuition at another Texas University? We can help with that too.
Hear From Other Out Of State Families
Chesney not only helped my daughter buy a home in Texas but also provided clear guidance, timely support, and patience, walking us through every step of the residency requirements. Anna has been amazing in managing our property, giving us complete peace of mind.
We’re thrilled to share that my daughter now qualifies for in-state tuition! We are incredibly grateful to Tower Realty. They are the true experts in navigating the residency process.
Work With Tower Realty Austin To Meet The UT Austin* Residency Requirements
15+ Years of Experience
For more than 15 years we’ve been helping out of state students qualify for in state tuition. We’ve helped hundreds of families to meet the UT Austin* residency requirements.
Comprehensive Services
When you work with us, our service doesn’t stop after you’ve purchased your property. Our team will help you post-purchase through the process of establishing residency and gain in state tuition. It doesn’t stop there, we’re also here to help you with the property management of your new investment.
UT REAL ESTATE EXPERTS
Tower Realty Austin is the leader in the UT area real estate market. Our experience in the university market is unparalleled. After we talk about your goals, we’ll find you the perfect property.
UT Austin* Residency Requirements FAQ
Most families have questions when they are considering buying an investment property to establish residency for in-state tuition. We understand that and are here to help guide you through the process.
Establishing Texas residency is a legitimate and legal method to qualify for in-state tuition at the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)*. This process applies statewide to out-of-state students attending any public university in Texas, not just UT Austin. [Learn more about Texas in state tuition requirements for other Texas universities.]
The Texas Education Code (TEC) Section 54.052 authorizes individuals classified as Texas residents to pay in-state tuition, which is generally significantly lower than out-of-state tuition fees.
Texas offers a unique opportunity for families to lower tuition costs by purchasing property, thereby increasing the state’s tax base. This method incentivizes real estate investment, which helps grow the local economy and, by extension, supports property value appreciation.
Why would Texas offer a program like this?
Texas does not have a state income tax, so it relies on property taxes to fund public services. By encouraging out-of-state families to invest in Texas real estate, the state bolsters its property tax base, benefiting the community, residents, and public services.
Additionally, this process supports the long-term growth of local property values and strengthens the Austin real estate market, especially in Austin neighborhoods surrounding the UT Austin campus.
What Are The Ways My Out Of State Student Can Establish Residency For In State Tuition?
To qualify for in-state tuition, Texas law requires proof of domicile in the state for at least 12 months. Here are the two main methods by which families can establish Texas residency:
- Property Ownership
Purchasing property in Texas is one of the most common and direct ways to establish residency. Typically, the student must reside in the state for at least 12 months before gaining residency status. While students often live on campus during their first year, they can move into the property purchased for this purpose during their sophomore year. Additionally, the property can be rented out to qualified tenants, providing potential rental income and offsetting ownership costs. - Business Ownership (LLC)
Establishing an LLC or other business entity in Texas offers an alternative method to establish domicile for residency purposes. By legally registering and actively operating a business in Texas, the student can use this as a basis for claiming residency. Property ownership isn't the right fit for everyone, so we're happy to provide a free outline of the business ownership process to help you navigate this option.
- Property Ownership
Can I talk to someone who has done this?
We’ve assisted over 1,000 families in establishing Texas residency through real estate investment. If you’re interested in hearing from others who have successfully navigated this process, we’re happy to facilitate conversations with families who can share their experiences.
Can you help with a property purchase outside of the UT Austin campus area?
Although many families choose to invest in properties near campus, we also specialize in a variety of markets across Texas to help you find an investment that best aligns with your specific needs and goals.
Austin
College Station
San Antonio
San Marcos
Whether you're considering property investment in one of these areas or are looking to explore business ownership in Texas, we have the knowledge and resources to guide you through the process.
Does my student have to live in the property or can they live on campus?
Typically UT Austin freshmen choose to live on campus, which coincides with the 12-month period required for establishing domicile in Texas.
If your student chooses to live on campus, we can help find qualified tenants for renting or leasing the property, as well as collect rent and manage property maintenance issues. Learn more about our Austin property management services.
Once your student establishes residency (typically coinciding with their sophomore year), they have the option to live in the property they purchased.
What happens if my student transfers?
Though most UT Austin students are drawn to the university for its vibrant community, world-class academics, and scenic location, we understand that not every student will remain at UT. Add to that the fact that U.S. News & World Report ranked Austin #9 for Best Places to Live in 2024/2025, and UT Austin as #19 on their Most Innovative Schools list.
Should your child decide to transfer, we offer guidance in either renting or selling the property. The Austin housing market remains steady with strong demand, particularly around the UT Austin campus, which ensures that property owners can often find tenants or sell their property relatively quickly.How is the Austin housing market?
Austin is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live according to U.S. News & World Report, meaning that the real estate demand is steady, particularly in UT Austin neighborhoods. Tower Realty Austin has brokered transactions throughout the year, most notably in the spring and summer months bookending the academic year cycle.
Will my investment yield a return?
While real estate investment carries inherent risks, the Austin market has demonstrated consistent growth. Families that purchase property near UT Austin often see long-term value appreciation. While no investment is guaranteed, the demand for housing in this area provides a favorable environment for those seeking both rental income and property value appreciation.
How is the property managed?
In addition to being Texas residency experts, Tower Realty Austin also offers comprehensive Austin property management services including tenant placement, rent collection, property maintenance, and utility payments. This service ensures that you can enjoy the benefits of your property investment without the hassle of day-to-day management.
What if the law changes?
The Texas residency requirements are unlikely to change in the immediate future. The statute allowing out-of-state students to establish Texas residency through property ownership is firmly entrenched, and the process has been in place for years. While legislative changes can occur, such changes are typically slow and would require significant time to be enacted. Additionally, if any changes were made, those who have already established residency would likely be grandfathered into the current regulations.
How quickly can my student meet the UT Austin residency requirements?
In order to qualify for in-state tuition for your student’s sophomore year, you must establish residency at least 12 months before their application for in-state tuition. The earlier in their academic career this process begins, the more likely it is that they’ll qualify for in-state tuition for their second year at UT Austin.
Have more questions about the UT Austin* residency requirements or how to qualify for in state tuition? We’re here to help.
UT Austin* Residency Requirement Resources
These are a few resources we’ve found to be helpful as you navigate the process to qualify for in state tuition at UT Austin*. Our team is here to help with any residency requirement related questions you may have.