FAQs
Below are links to useful information about beginning your journey into college. If you have any questions please do contact us at admissions@go.mcdowelltech.edu
Determine Your Residency
Before you can apply to McDowell Tech, you’ll need to complete your Residency Determination through RDS (Residency Determination Service). This is the official system North Carolina uses to decide if you qualify for in-state tuition and state financial aid. It’s a quick and important first step in your college journey.
RDS will help:
- ✅ Confirm your North Carolina residency status
- ✅ Determine your eligibility for in-state tuition and scholarships
- ✅ Provide a Residency Certification Number (RCN) you’ll use when applying
It’s free, secure, and only takes about 10–15 minutes. Click the link below to get started, and reach out if you have any questions—we’re here to help!
What you'll need
The RDS system will ask for a few key details to determine your residency status—so it’s best to gather what you need before you begin. Here’s what to have on hand:
- 📧 An email address you check regularly (used for login and updates)
- 🔢 Your Social Security Number or other valid ID (optional, but strongly recommended to avoid being classified as out-of-state)
- 🏡 Information about your current address and how long you’ve lived in North Carolina
- 👨👩👧 If you’re under 24: parent or guardian details (such as their address, tax status, and possibly their SSN)
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
The RDS process is pretty simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can delay your college application — or even lead to an out-of-state tuition classification:
- ❌ Using a nickname instead of your full legal name (use the name on your Social Security card or government ID)
- ❌ Forgetting to complete the Residency Determination — it’s required before you can apply to McDowell Tech
- ❌ Not clicking “Submit” at the end — if you don’t see a confirmation page and get your RCN (Residency Certification Number), it’s not finished!