By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
A recent state audit found that the University of North Alabama (UNA) failed to properly verify student residency status, a lapse that violates Alabama law and may have resulted in some students being incorrectly charged in-state tuition.
The audit, conducted by the Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts, covered the period from Oct. 1, 2022, through Sept. 30, 2024. According to the report, UNA did not obtain the required residency certifications for students classified as in-state, as mandated under state statute.
Alabama law requires public universities to collect formal documentation verifying that students claiming in-state status reside at an Alabama address, intend to remain in the state indefinitely, and maintain stronger ties to Alabama than any other state. These certifications are intended to protect the integrity of the state’s tuition system.
Without proper documentation, auditors said, students who should have been classified as nonresidents may have been charged lower in-state tuition rates, potentially reducing university revenue and affecting enrollment data.
According to the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, UNA reported 10,204 enrolled students in Fall 2024, of whom 7,461 were classified as in-state.
The Examiners of Public Accounts conducted the residency compliance review, while UNA’s financial statements for the same period were audited separately by Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC. The audit did not identify fraud or financial misappropriation; instead, it pointed to weaknesses in administrative controls and in the enforcement of university procedures.
While residency verification is considered a routine administrative task, auditors emphasized its importance, particularly as lawmakers increase oversight of higher education accountability and spending.
UNA, a regional public university offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, has historically received clean financial audits. However, the report noted that compliance failures can still raise concerns if left uncorrected.
“The University should implement policies and procedures to ensure residency certifications are obtained for resident students in accordance with the Code of Alabama,” the audit stated.
State officials expect corrective action and warn that failure to comply could result in increased oversight or further corrective measures.