Cut legal ties that may keep your status as a resident in another state. These ties include an out-of-state driver license, voter registration card and state tax liability, according to the university's student catalog. These ties will automatically disqualify you from resident status regardless of the reason you might have for keeping those items.
Gather the documents that prove you are a permanent resident of California, such as a driver license, voter registration or W-2 form. You may also need to prove that you have bank accounts, have paid California state taxes and are renting an apartment or own a house. Keep in mind that you might have to be financially independent to qualify for in-state tuition. Financial ties to parents who do not meet residence qualifications will disqualify you from receiving residence status.
Fill out the "Residence Questionnaire" form and turn it into the admissions office. The form can be found on the university's website and at the Enrollment Information Center, which is on the first floor of the Student Services Building next to the Valley Business & Technology Building, or VBT building. This office may be contacted at (510) 885-2784. It is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Take the questionnaire and documents proving residency to the Enrollment Information Center by the deadline. The deadlines are Sept. 20 for the fall semester, April 1 for spring, Jan. 5 for winter and July 1 for summer.