Residency Requirements
Residency Overview
California state law requires that residency classifications shall be determined for tuition purposes for each student at the time application for admission is received. An application must be submitted by new and returning students (did not attend for three consecutive semesters). The burden is on the student to demonstrate clearly, with proof, both physical presence in California and intent to establish California residence. – California Education Code, Sections 68000-70902.
Residency Requirements
To be eligible for in-state tuition, students must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident or hold a qualifying Visa Type and demonstrate the following:
- Physical Presence: You must have been physically present in California for one year and one day prior to the start of the term you wish to be classified as a California Resident (Title 5 § 54020 and § 54022).
- Intent to make California your home for other than a temporary purpose for one year and one day prior to the start of the term. (Ed. Code § 68041; Cal. Code Regs., Title 5 § 54024)
It is the student’s responsibility to clearly demonstrate both physical presence in California and intent to establish California residence.
Changing Your Residency Status
You can request to change your residency status from Non-Resident to Resident by submitting the Residency Reclassification Questionnaire.
Residency Determination Information
Exemptions
In some cases, students who do not meet the residency requirements may be eligible for a non-resident supplemental tuition exemption. Depending on the exemption, you may be considered a resident, but you are required to file an affidavit or documents. These exemptions remain in effect as long as the student is in continuous attendance.