To get in-state tuition you have to be a legal resident of the state in which your school is. Each state has different requirements to gain residency. For example, at OSU you can gain residency after your first year if you satisfy their requirements. From what I have heard the faculty at the school is very helpful and walks you through the process to set you up for success. Additionally, at UAB you cannot gain in-state tuition after you start the program. However, if you are married and your spouse is a full time employee within the state of Alabama, you can enroll as an Alabama resident and obtain in-state tuition. I’d suggest contacting your prospective schools to find out more about their state’s requirements. All of the programs I have contacted have been extremely helpful.