As used in this section and ORS 348.205, 348.250, 348.260 and 348.263:

1. (1) “Cost of education” includes but is not limited to, tuition, fees and living expenses.

2. (2) “Eligible post-secondary institution” means:

   1. (a) A public university listed in ORS 352.002;
   2. (b) A community college operated under ORS chapter 341;
   3. (c) The Oregon Health and Science University; or
   4. (d) An Oregon-based, generally accredited, not-for-profit institution of higher education.
3. (3) “Enrollment level” means the course load taken by a student as a proportion of the expected full-time course load.

4. (4) “Qualified student” means any student who has been a resident of this state for not less than 12 months prior to enrolling at an eligible post-secondary institution and who:

   1. (a) Has not achieved a baccalaureate or higher degree from any post-secondary institution;
   2. (b) Is enrolled in an eligible program as defined by rule of the Higher Education Coordinating Commission;
   3. (c) Is making satisfactory academic progress as defined by rule of the commission; and
   4. (d) Has not been admitted to the United States for the purpose of enrolling in a program of study at an institution of higher education.

Note: The amendments to 348.180 by section 4, chapter 383, Oregon Laws 2025, first apply to the 2026-2027 academic year. See section 5, chapter 383, Oregon Laws 2025. The text that applies prior to the 2026-2027 academic year is set forth for the user’s convenience.

[1999 c.1070 §3; 2001 c.321 §1; 2007 c.802 §1; 2011 c.358 §2; 2011 c.637 §141; 2013 c.747 §84; 2015 c.513 §14; 2015 c.624 §3; 2015 c.846 §1; 2019 c.384 §16; 2025 c.383 §4]