Can I apply for a resident permit with an L visa?

I currently hold an L visa that expires in May 2014, but I am studying at a university in China from September-July. I have all the paper work from the university to prove I am attending for one year. Can I apply for a resident permit with an L tourist visa? Also, would the resident permit only be valid till May like my L visa, or will it be valid for my one year term at the university? I am trying to avoid buying an x visa if I don't need one. Thanks!