Understanding Savannah State University's In-State Tuition Requirements

Savannah State University (SSU), a historically black college and university (HBCU) located in Savannah, Georgia, offers various pathways for students to qualify for in-state tuition rates. As a state-supported institution, SSU requires students to provide documented proof of residency to be eligible for the in-state tuition rate. All students are initially coded as out-of-state and must demonstrate residency for the 12 consecutive months before the first day of classes to qualify for in-state tuition. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding SSU's in-state tuition requirements, including eligibility criteria, waivers, and other relevant information.

Residency Classification

At Savannah State University, students are classified as residents or non-residents based on the information provided in their application for admission. Any details indicating ties to another state, such as an out-of-state address, school, or driver’s license, will lead to an out-of-state classification.

Petition for In-State Classification

Students classified as out-of-state for tuition purposes have the option to petition the institution for a change of status. A petition should be submitted by students who have been notified by the institution that they have been classified as out of state for tuition purposes. The petition may be submitted by students wishing to provide additional documentation as evidence that domicile has been established and maintained in Georgia for 12 continuous months immediately preceding the first day of classes to be considered for possible reclassification. This applies to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, refugees, asylees, or other eligible non-citizens as defined by federal Title IV regulations.

It is important to note that there is no set formula or specific supporting documents that guarantee a residency reclassification. The tuition classification officer reviews each petition individually and assesses which supporting documents are needed based on each student’s unique circumstance. No classification changes will be made without supporting documentation. Each petitioner must provide enough documentation to prove continuous domicile in the state for the past 12 months. Therefore, the tuition classification officer may require the student to turn in additional supporting documents based on the information provided through the student’s admissions application and petition. The deadline for petitioning for Georgia residency is by the end of the 5th week of the semester for fall and spring and by the end of the 2nd week of the summer term.

Tuition and Fees

Savannah State University's tuition and fees vary depending on residency status (in-state or out-of-state), level of study (undergraduate or graduate), and the number of credit hours taken. The tuition paid by an in-state student covers only about 25% of the total cost of the student’s education in the University System. The taxpayers of Georgia contribute a substantial portion of the remaining costs through the state income tax.

Read also: SCAD Tuition and Expenses

Tuition Rates

As a general guide, here are the estimated tuition rates for undergraduate students. These rates are subject to change and it is best to consult the university's official website for the most up-to-date information.

  • In-State Tuition: \$2,610.00 per semester (for 15 credit hours)
  • Out-of-State Tuition: \$9,705.00 per semester (for 15 credit hours)

Mandatory Fees

All students are required to pay mandatory fees, which support essential services and activities that enhance the collegiate experience. These fees are assessed each semester and cover various services, including:

  • Health Clinic Fee: \$77.00
  • Student Activity Fee: \$55.00
  • Student Athletic Fee: \$300.00
  • Student Center & Stadium/ Recreation Facility Fee: \$260.00
  • Technology Fee: \$50.00
  • Transportation/ Shuttle Fee: \$45.00
  • Online Learning Fee: \$50.00 (assessed to exclusively online students)

Out-of-State Tuition Waivers

Some students who are not eligible for in-state tuition may qualify for an out-of-state tuition waiver. Savannah State University offers several waivers to reduce the financial burden for eligible students.

Border State Waiver

Under the University System of Georgia (USG), Savannah State University (SSU) offers in-state tuition rates to residents of Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee through the Border State Waiver program. This initiative allows students from these neighboring states to benefit from reduced tuition costs, making higher education more accessible.

Military In-State Tuition Rate

Active duty and full-time members of the Armed Forces of the United States, including members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard are eligible for in-state tuition.

Read also: Savannah Christian Value

Jasper/Beaufort County Resident In-State Tuition Rate

Residents of Beaufort and Jasper Counties in South Carolina are eligible for a waiver of out-of-state fees. Waiver must be requested and proof of residency documents presented.

Free Tuition for Senior Citizens

Georgia senior citizens (with proof of age 62 or older and residency) may be eligible for a waiver of tuition on credit enrollment on a space available basis. Senior citizens must pay mandatory fees and purchase books, tools and uniforms based on class/program-specific requirements.

Economic Advantage Waiver

Dependent or independent students who can provide clear evidence that they have relocated to the state of Georgia to accept full-time, self-sustaining employment and have established domicile in the state of Georgia are eligible for this wavier.

Military Personnel and Veterans

Certain categories of military personnel and veterans may also be eligible for waivers, including:

  • who, within 36 months of separation from such service, enrolls in an academic program and demonstrates intent to become domiciled in Georgia.
  • Military Reserves based in Georgia.

Non-Traditional Students

Savannah State University also caters to non-traditional students, defined as applicants who have been out of high school or whose high school class graduated at least five years ago from an accredited or approved high school or have satisfactorily completed the GED. Also, applicants in this category who have attended college must have earned fewer than 30 semester hours of transferable credit and have not attended college within the past five years.

Read also: SSU Legacy

Non-Traditional Student Requirements

As a Non-Traditional applicant you must submit the following:

  • Complete an application for Admission online at Future Tiger.
  • A complete Certificate of Immunization is required for all Transient applicants.
  • Certificate of Birth Abroad issue by Dept.
  • Certificate of Naturalization (USCIS form N-550 or N-570)
  • Military ID cards may be accepted when presented in person (copies cannot be accepted) and the student is the servicemember (dependent cards cannot be accepted).

*Current Real ID compliant driver’s licenses and state-issued IDs from a number of other states and meeting specific parameters may also be accepted as evidence of lawful presence.

Tiger 62 Program

As a Tiger 62 applicant you must submit the following:

  • Complete an application for Admission online at Future Tiger and pay the \$20 App Fee (Non-Refundable).
  • A complete Certificate of Immunization is required for all Transient applicants.
  • Certificate of Birth Abroad issue by Dept.
  • Certificate of Naturalization (USCIS form N-550 or N-570)
  • Military ID cards may be accepted when presented in person (copies cannot be accepted) and the student is the servicemember (dependent cards cannot be accepted).

*Current Real ID compliant driver’s licenses and state-issued IDs from a number of other states and meeting specific parameters may also be accepted as evidence of lawful presence.

Dual Enrollment

High school students can also get a head start on their college education through Savannah State University's Dual Enrollment program. This program enables participants to fulfill high school graduation requirements by taking college courses that provide dual credit, so they simultaneously complete high school course requirements. The cost for full-time coursework up to 15 semester hours from the approved course listing will be funded by the Georgia Student Finance Commission. Other cost of attendance expenses including lab fees, meals, transportation and personal expenses are the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Any additional credit hours and/or courses not covered under the approved course list must be paid for out of pocket.

Financial Aid

In addition to in-state tuition rates and waivers, Savannah State University offers various forms of financial aid to help students finance their education. Financial aid can include grants, loans, scholarships and work-study jobs. Financial aid packages vary depending on your financial need. Most colleges determine financial need based on your FAFSA. The average aid package awarded is \$9,238.

Financial Aid Dates

  • Application Due: Not available
  • Priority Application Due: Not available
  • Notification Date: Not available
  • Response Due: Not available

Admissions

To become a student at Savannah State University, prospective students must complete the admissions process.

How to Apply

  1. Submit an undergraduate application at Future Tiger and pay the \$20 App Fee (Non-Refundable).
  2. Have your guidance counselor send us your official high school transcript.
  3. Send us official copies of your SAT/ACT scores from the testing agency.
  4. Submit official college transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Students who participated in a dual enrollment program have an official transcript on file with the college or university that provided the coursework.

Admission Events

  • Fall Open Campus Day: Sat - November 8, 2025
  • Admitted Students Day #1: Sat - February 21, 2026
  • Admitted Students Day #2: Sat - April 11, 2026
  • Spring Open Campus Day: Sat - March 28, 2026

Admission Requirements

  • High School GPA & Required High School Curriculum: 3.0 (Test Optional), Freshman Class Average (3.13)
  • SAT & ACT Test Scores: SSU accepts both the SAT and ACT test.

tags: #savannah #state #university #in #state #tuition

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