Residency

*Graduate Admissions Applicants and First-Term Graduate Students: Visit the Graduate California Residency page for residency information.

Residency classification for tuition purposes determines whether a student is issued in-state or out-of-state tuition rates, with out-of-state tuition being higher. Residency in the State of California alone does not automatically qualify a student for the in-state tuition rate.

Residency is a combination of three factors: physical presence, intent to remain in California indefinitely, and a valid immigration status. Please review the following to determine if you are eligible to apply. Residency determination can take 2 to 4 weeks to complete.

• California State University (CSU) Residency page
• Rules and Regulations for Establishing Residency
• California Non-Resident Tuition Exemption (AB 540)
• Ten Things You Need to Know about California Residency for Tuition Purposes
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Applying for Residency:

Application Deadline: The last day to submit the CSU Residence Questionnaire.

Residence Determination Date: The date by which you must qualify for California residency to be eligible for in-state tuition.

Follow the 3 steps below:

1. Read instructions:
   • First-term student, not enrolled: read this instruction [pdf]
   • Continuing students (undergraduate and graduate): read this instruction [pdf]
2. Download, completely fill out, and sign the Residence Questionnaire [pdf].
3. Upload the signed Residence Questionnaire and any supporting documents. We do not accept paper copies. 

Appealing a Denied Request

If SJSU denied your request, you may file a residency appeal. Read these instructions [pdf].