<p>I am applying to a few different UC and CSUs, I was a bit confused about whether I am classified as an independent student or not. I am 23 with a birthday of 11/02/88, which means I will be turning 24 shortly after the semester of fall 2012 begins. Does this allow me to apply as an independent??</p>
<p>Each individual college will have a Registrar’s webpage where eligibility requirements are laid out. They basically deal with your sources of income and whether or not your parents recently counted you as a dependent.</p>
<p>I see the problem you have. To avoid having to show independence from parents, you need to be 24 “by December 31 of the year in which classification as a resident is requested.” That is the rule for all UCs and CSUs. I believe that means by Dec 31, 2012 if applying for Fall 2012 but you better call a UC admissions office and confirm because it is ambiguous.</p>