Factors Considered to Determine Residency

No one factor determines residency. The following factors are called “indices of intent.” They, along with a person's presence in California, are among the factors considered in determining California residency:

    The following are called "indices of intent."

  • California state and federal tax returns with W-2 forms (required)
  • California automobile registration
  • California driver's license and/or California ID card
  • California voter registration
  • Military personnel: Active Duty orders and Military ID

    Two documents will be required to fulfill the intent to be a California resident. All documents must be dated one year and one day prior to the semester. Documents required will be determined by an Admission's Residency Office. Please call (619) 388-3475 for more information.


    The following are called "physical presence."

  • Bank statements for California account
  • California license for professional practice/membership in California organization
  • Petitioner for divorce in California
  • Utility bills (i.e. San Diego Gas & Electric)
  • Proof of employment (pay stubs)
  • Rental agreement
  • DD-214 form
  • Verification of public assistance

    One document will be required to fulfill the physical presence evidence needed to be determined as a California resident. All documents must be dated one year and one day prior to the semester. Document required will be determined by an Admission's Residency Office. Please call (619) 388-3475 for more information.

Exception to Residency

Several exceptions to the residency rules apply. They include, but are not limited, to the following:

  • Active duty military personnel stationed in California
  • Active military and dependents previously stationed in California, who are currently enrolled, and subsequently receive orders to change their duty station to-out-of-state
  • Dependents, under the age of 19, of active duty military personnel stationed in California
  • Certain minors who remained in California when their parents moved
  • Self-supporting minors
  • Full-time employees of the college or a state agency, or a child or spouse of the full-time employee

Appeals

To appeal a residency determination decision, a student may file a Residency Determination Appeal form with the college Admissions and Records Supervisor.