San Francisco State University: Admissions 2024, Rankings & Fees
San Francisco, USA
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144 acre campus- Estd. 1899
Last updated on 30 Oct '23, by Tasneem Hoda (Study Abroad Expert)What's new at SFSU?
- The application priority deadline for international students is Nov 30, 2023.
- The main application deadline for international students is May 1, 2024.
- About San Francisco State University
- SFSU Programs
- San Francisco State University Tuition Fees, Duration & Eligibility 2024
- San Francisco State University Scholarships 2024
- SFSU Admission Dates 2024
- San Francisco State University Placements
- San Francisco State University Accommodation and Meals
- San Francisco State University Rankings 2024
- Studying in USA
- San Francisco State University Notable Alumni
- SFSU FAQs
About San Francisco State University
San Francisco State University (SFSU) has been operating as a state university since 1972 but was originally established in 1899 as a state-run school. It is among the 23 universities in the California State University system. According to the QS World Rankings 2024, San Francisco State University has a ranking of #1201-1400.
San Francisco State University has an acceptance rate of 91%. There are 6 academic colleges and 4 campuses located in Romberg Tiburon Center, Downtown Campus, Sierra Nevada Field Campus, and the main campus at Holloway Ave. There are 6 Fortune 500 companies in San Francisco, so, students have a lot of opportunities after completing their studies. The tuition fees for international students of a UG course is INR 15 L and for a PG course, it is INR 29 L. International applicants need to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher to get into SFSU.
Also read: Study Guide to USA for International Students 2023
| Year of establishment | 1899 |
| Website | Go to Website  |
| Also Known As | SFSU |
| Accepted Exams | |
| Total International Students | 1026 |
| Size of Campus in acres | 144 |
| Male/Female Ratio | 1.27 |
| UG/PG Course Ratio | 1.1 |
| Endowments Value | US Dollar 140 million |
| No.of Campuses | 1 |
| Accommodation expenses | 11277 USD for 2 sharing (UG),10818 USD for 2 sharing (PG) |
| Meal expenses | 4833 USD (UG),4833 USD (PG) |
| International Students Website | Go to Website |
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Q: Is SFSU a good university?
San Francisco State University's ranking in the 2022-2023 edition of Best Colleges is National Universities, #234 out of 443 universities. SFSU is a welcoming place for international students, here you will find a diverse student body with students representing over 100 nationalities. SFSU is part of the larger California State University system and the university has more than 300 student organizations.
Q: Is San Francisco State University expensive for international students?
The first year tuition fees for international students at San Francisco State University are given as follows:
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
MS (13 courses) | INR 11 L - 17 L |
BHM (2 courses) | INR 12 L - 15 L |
MIM / B.Tech (7 courses) | INR 12 L - INR 17 L |
BBA (2 courses) | INR 15 L |
MIM (5 courses) | INR 14 L - INR 19 L |
MIM2 (1 course) | INR 13 L |
BA (24 courses) | INR 12 L - INR 15 L |
MBA/PGDM (1 course) | INR 29 L |
BSc (9 courses) | INR 12 L - INR 15 L |
MIM21 (2 courses) | INR 14 L - INR 20 L |
Q: What is the acceptance rate of SFSU?
With an acceptance rate of 91%, San Francisco State University is largely liberal in its admission process. International applicants need to score a 3.0 or higher GPA to get into SFSU. Candidates are expected to have an above-average GPA to meet the GPA requirements set by SFSU for its admission process. With above above-average GPA, you have a high chance of getting accepted at the San Francisco State University.
SFSU Programs
The university offers 94 master's degrees, 118 bachelor's degrees, 26 teaching credentials, and 5 doctoral degrees. 12 athletic teams compete at the NCAA Division II level. SFSU has accreditation by Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Bachelors can choose from 77 academic areas while students pursuing post-graduation have 63 academic areas to choose from. In addition, the university offers 41 certificate programs and 16 credential programs.
Also read: Study in USA - Colleges, Eligibility & Scholarships
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Q: Is MS in CS good at SFSU?
Master of Science in Computer Science is one of the greatest courses to pursue for in-depth knowledge of computer engineering. San Francisco State University's Master of Science in Computer Science programme provides foreign students with a top-notch education, cutting-edge practical training, and professional prospects. The full-time Master of Science in Computer Science programme at San Francisco State University lasts 18 months. One of San Francisco State University's premier programmes is the Master of Science in Computer Science. To get admitted, candidates must pass the GRE, GMAT, SAT, and TOEFL/IELTS language proficiency exams.
Q: What is a popular major at San Francisco State University?
The most popular majors at San Francisco State University are Management, Business, Marketing, Health Professions, Social Services, and Visual and Performing Arts. Overall, San Francisco State University offers 94 master's degrees, 118 bachelor's degrees, 26 teaching credentials, and 5 doctoral degrees.
Q: Does SFSU require GRE for MS in CS?
Minimum undergraduate GPA: 3.0 or above
TOEFL/IELTS scores for (potential) non-US Bachelor's degree holders
Bachelor's Degree (four years)
Currently available generic GRE (taken within the last three years, electronically submitted directly from ETS, and uploaded as a PDF to your Cal State Apply application)
2 LORs
SOP
Q: What programs is San Francisco State University known for?
San Francisco State University is known for offering courses like journalism, creative wiritng, business, government and education to film and technology and science. Bachelors can choose from 77 academic areas while students pursuing post-graduation have 63 academic areas to choose from.
San Francisco State University Tuition Fees, Duration & Eligibility 2024
The applicants need to demonstrate English Language Proficiency for securing admission at SFSU. Applicants can showcase English Language Proficiency by submitting official TOEFL or IELTS Score Reports. Below we have given the minimum score required below.
TOEFL Requirements
|
Type of TOEFL |
Score |
|---|---|
|
Paper-based Test (PBT) |
500 |
|
Computer-based Test (CBT) |
173 |
|
Internet-based Test (IBT) |
61 |
For IELTS, candidates need to have a minimum overall score of 6.0.
Also read: Eligibility to Study in USA for International Students
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(13 courses) | INR 11 L - 17 L | Duration: 18 months-24 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 59 - 65 |
B.E. / B.Tech(7 courses) | INR 13 L - 17 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 45 & Above |
BBA(2 courses) | INR 15 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 45 & Above |
MIM(5 courses) | INR 14 L - 19 L | Duration: 12-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 59 & Above |
B.A.(24 courses) | INR 13 L - 15 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 45 & Above |
MBA/PGDM(1 course) | INR 29 L | Duration: 12-36 months Exam Accepted: GMAT, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above |
BHM(2 courses) | INR 13 L - 15 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 45 & Above |
MPA(1 course) | INR 13 L | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 59 & Above |
B.Sc.(9 courses) | INR 13 L - 15 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 61 & Above, PTE: 45 & Above |
M.A.(22 courses) | INR 10 L - 18 L | Duration: 12 months-24 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 59 & Above |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Q: Does SFSU require GMAT?
There is no GMAT or GRE score requirement for applicants to the MBA programme at the University of San Francisco. Applicants may waive the GMAT test if at least one of the following conditions is met:
Completed doctoral or master's degree from a recognized/accredited program
Minimum 3.0 GPA with five or more years of full-time, professional work experience
Completed an undergraduate degree in business with a cumulative 3.5 (or higher) GPA
Q: What are the San Francisco State University admission requirements?
The eligibility requirements for international students for admission to San Francisco State University are given below:
Undergraduate Eligibility
Admissions to undergraduate programs are based on a combination of the following:
High school grades
Completed twelve years of high school or secondary school from an accredited school
A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or Grade-B in academics after the ninth grade
SAT or ACT results
Postgraduate Eligibility
Admissions to postgraduate programs are based on a combination of the following:
An undergraduate degree from an accredited institute or university equivalent to a US bachelor’s degree in a related field or area of study
Either a four-year bachelor’s degree or a three-year with a postgraduate Diploma or master’s degree
A minimum B-grade or 50% aggregate or higher in the bachelor’s program
GMAT or GRE Score (depending upon course)
Q: What is the English proficiency requirement for San Francisco State University?
English Requirements for International Students
The minimum language requirements of undergraduate and postgraduate courses are mentioned below:
Type of Examination | Minimum Score Requirement |
|---|---|
Undergraduate Applicants | |
TOEFL Paper-based Test (PBT) | An overall score of 500 |
TOEFL Computer-based Test (CBT) | An overall score of 173 |
TOEFL iBT | An overall score of 61 |
TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition | An overall score of 61 |
Overall 6.0 bands | |
IELTS Indicator | Overall 6.0 bands |
An academic score of 45 | |
An evidence-based reading and writing score of 550 | |
English score of 22 | |
Postgraduate Applicants | |
TOEFL PBT | 550 or higher |
TOEFL iBT | 80 or higher |
IELTS | An average score of 6.5 from all bands |
PTE Academic | An overall score of 59 |
Duolingo (DET) | 120 or higher |
Note: Some of the courses may have higher score requirements or different academic and language requirements. Please refer to the intended course page on the university website to check the exact limit on each course.
San Francisco State University Scholarships 2024
The Office of Student Financial Aid at SFSU recognizes the limited number of scholarships that are specifically for international students attending San Francisco State University. You need to search for the list of scholarships available for international students at SFSU's official website and apply for the ones that do not specifically state that you must be a United States citizen or permanent resident. Some of the scholarships offered to international students are given as follows:
- David Goldstein Memorial Scholarship in Paralegal Studies
- Amy Love Memorial Scholarship
- Alexandra Laboutin Bannon Scholarship
- Early Childhood Special Education Scholarship
Also read: Scholarships in USA for Indian Students
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Q: Does San Francisco State University give scholarships for international students?
San Francisco State University provides financial aid to international students who demonstrate the need for financial assistance. Several scholarships are available to international students based on need and merit. Some of these are:
Diana T.Y. Chung and Henry W.S. Chung Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship is available to international students with an F-1 or J-1 visa. The applicant must prove the need and merit for consideration to acquire this scholarship. A minimum GPA of 3.25 in the undergraduate programme and a GPA of 3.5 in a graduate programme are required to be considered for this scholarship.
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship Program
The scholarship for postgraduate study seeks to enable deserving candidates to undertake postgraduate studies at prominent universities in India and overseas. Every year, a scholarship of up to 20 lakhs is given to a handful of Indian students who demonstrate good scholastic performance consistently.
Gates Millennium Scholarship
This Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation-funded scholarship is awarded to 20,000 excellent learners of color to encourage excellence in education, offer opportunities, and lower monetary obstacles. The scholarship is primarily for admission to undergraduate courses.
Note: Scholarship deadlines and amounts may vary. For more details on the scholarship application process and deadlines, please visit the university’s scholarship webpage.
SFSU Admission Dates 2024
Spring 2024 applicants must complete all admission requirements for San Francisco State University no later than the end of the Fall 2023 term.
Spring 2024 application deadlines for San Francisco State University are mentioned below.
|
Application Details |
Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Deadline to Accept Admission Offer & Pay Enrollment Confirmation Deposit |
Dec 1, 2023 |
|
Spring 2024 Semester Begins |
Jan 2024 |
Also read: Admission intakes in USA for International Students
- Application fees :USD 70
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Documents| Type of documents | Applicable for |
|---|---|
| SOP | Needed for few courses |
| LOR | Needed for few courses |
| Essays | Not required |
| CV | Needed for few courses |
| Additional documents | Required |
Important dates| Intake season | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | 1ˢᵗ Jan - 1ˢᵗ Aug 2024 |
| Spring | 1ˢᵗ - 15ᵗʰ Dec 2023 |
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Q: What is the application checklist for SFSU?
International applicants need to score a 3.0 or higher GPA for getting into SFSU. Candidates are expected to have an above-average GPA to meet the GPA requirements of SFSU. International undergraduates applying for admission at San Francisco State University should keep this application checklist handy:
Q: How to apply to SFSU as an international student?
The applicant must have a strong academic record from an accredited or recognised institution and be eligible to enrol in a university in their home country. A $70.00 application fee is required of each and every candidate for admission to the university.
For consideration for admission to SF State and the Department of Equity, Leadership Studies, and Instructional Technologies, candidates must complete all components of the online application. From the application deadline, it takes between four to six weeks to complete the admissions process.
Q: How long does it take to hear back from SFSU State?
On submitting your application form, the university will send you an email with a San Francisco State University Identification Number. You can check the status of your application online by visiting the application portal.
Undergraduate Decisions
After receiving the complete application and all supporting documents, the university takes the admission decision in a couple of months.
Graduate Decisions
For graduate programs, the application is first screened by the Graduate admissions department and then sent to the relevant department for the final decision. This process takes 4-6 weeks. Applicants may check the admission decision on the SF State Gateway online portal.
Besides, it is recommended to register with an active email ID and check it frequently for the latest updates on admission-related information. Also, students must remain active on the official website of the university to stay updated with any admission-related announcements.
Q: When do the admissions start at SFSU?
San Francisco State University offers admissions in four intakes:
Fall Intake
Winter Intake
Spring Intake
Summer Intake
The tentative deadlines for international application submission for graduate and undergraduate applicants are given below:
Intakes | Deadlines* |
|---|---|
Undergraduate Applications | |
Fall | Mid - December |
Winter | Late - June |
Spring | Late - August |
Summer | Late – September |
Graduate Applications | |
Fall | Between February and March |
Spring | Between October and November |
*Deadlines vary depending on the course and can change frequently. We encourage students to check the school/department’s website for the exact deadlines.
San Francisco State University Placements
San Francisco State University focuses on Career and Leadership Development in order to help students and alumni in achieving their career goals. Some of the services offered to the students are given as follows:
- Resume and Cover Letter writing
- Leadership Development
- Interview Preparation
- Building Connections
- Events, Workshops and Fairs
- On and Off-Campus Internships
Also read: Internships and Jobs in USA 2023
Popular Job Sectors in the USA for International Students 2023
San Francisco State University Accommodation and Meals
Some of the housing options at San Francisco State University are given as follows:
- Mary Park Hall
- Mary Ward Hall
- Towers at Centennial Square
- Towers Junior Suites
- Manzanita Square
- University Park North
- University Park South
- University provides on-campus accommodation to its students and offers them various options to choose from Residence Halls and Apartments
- The Residence Halls, Mary Ward Hall, and Mary Park Hall are a
- University provides on-campus accommodation to its students and offers them various options to choose from Residence Halls and Apartments
- The Residence Halls, Mary Ward Hall, and Mary Park Hall are an ideal introduction to university life for first-year freshman students
- The Towers at Centennial Square (TCS) offers double-occupancy Jr. Suites and one & two-bedroom apartments in double and triple occupancy to first-year freshmen students
- The Village at Centennial Square (VCS) offers two- and three-bedroom apartments in three buildings: A, B, and C. Double- and single-occupancy bedrooms are available
- University Park South (UPS), located across Holloway Avenue and Font Boulevard, comprises one-, two-, and three-bedroom townhomes. Single- and double-occupancy bedrooms are available in each shared apartment. Each apartment is fully furnished and includes a kitchen, bathroom, cable TV hookup, and both wired and wireless internet connections
- University Park North (UPN), located just north of campus and adjacent to the Stonestown Galleria, provides one-, two-, and three-bedroom garden and tower apartments. Single- and double-occupancy bedrooms are available in each shared apartment. Furnished and unfurnished apartments include a kitchen, bathroom, and cable TV hookup
Accommodation Expense- Total Annual Cost:USD 10818
- On-campus housing:housing.sfsu.edu/
Meal Expense- Total Annual Cost:USD 4833
- Living expense links:housing.sfsu.edu/housing-fees
- Off-campus housing:collegestudentapartments.com/cit...
sfhousingservices.com/student-ho...
student.com/us/san-francisco
erasmusu.com/en/erasmus-san-fran...
- The residence type includes studio apartments, 4 bedroom apartments, 3 bedroom apartments, 2 bedroom apartments, and single bedroom apartments
- The average rent is 1000 to 1500 USD/month
- The student a
- The residence type includes studio apartments, 4 bedroom apartments, 3 bedroom apartments, 2 bedroom apartments, and single bedroom apartments
- The average rent is 1000 to 1500 USD/month
- The student apartments are fully furnished with all the basic amenities such as electricity, water, gas, modular kitchen, laundry and unlimited internet access
- Most of the apartments have lease duration of 9 to 12months
Commonly asked questions On Accommodation & Meals
Q: How much is the cost of attendance at San Francisco State University?
The cost of attendance is USD 29,000 and USD 31,000 approximately for undergraduates and graduate students studying at San Francisco State University. More details are as follows:
Expenses | UG On Campus | PG Off Campus |
|---|---|---|
Tuition Fee (7 Units /Greater) | USD 7,522 | USD 8,956 |
Books and Supplies | USD 1,099 | USD 1,099 |
Food and Housing | USD 17,955 | USD 18,999 |
Personal Expenses | USD 2,196 | USD 2,736 |
Transportation | USD 351 | USD 1,467 |
Total Cost | USD 29,123 | USD 33,257 |
Q: Does SFSU have on campus housing?
San Francisco State University offers on-campus housing options to incoming international students. The university has various residential halls that students can choose from. On-campus housing is limited and is allotted on a first-come-first-served basis. Students must apply well in time to ensure a residence at the university. The priority application is around the end of March, and the housing application deadline is around mid-May.
SFSU Accommodation Cost
The tentative cost of on-campus accommodation and meal plans, per installment out of total 9 annual installments, at SFSU are given below:
Type of Accommodation | Cost* Per Installment (in USD) |
|---|---|
Mary Ward Hall and Mary Park Hall | 1,126 |
Towers At Centennial Square | 1,184-1,565 |
Towers Junior Suites | 1,232 |
Village At Centennial Square | 1,280-1,666 |
Manzanita Square | 1,781-2,008 |
University Park North | 1,080-1,569 |
University Park South | 1,405-1,569 |
Meal Plan | |
19 meals per week | 488 |
15 meals per week | 457 |
12 meals per week | 484 |
5 meals per week | 253 |
Source: San Francisco State University
Off-Campus Accommodation
Students can opt for off-campus accommodation while studying at SFSU. There are plenty of housing options available near the university. You can choose the apartment and facilities as per your preference. These include studio apartments, 1 BHK apartments, 2 BHK apartments, and 3 BHK apartments.
San Francisco State University Rankings 2024
San Francisco State University has a ranking of 1201 in QS World University Rankings by QS (Top Universities) for 2023. Also, US News & World Report, SFSU has been placed at 1222 for 2023. For the last four years, US News has continuously downgraded SFSU's ranking from 972 in 2020 to 1222 in 2023. Apart from this, SFSU has been ranked #234 by US News in its National Universities category.
Also Read: Top Universities in USA
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Q: Is the University of San Francisco better than San Francisco State University?
The comparison between the University of San Francisco (USF) and San Francisco State University (SFSU) depends on your specific academic and career goals. Both universities have their own strengths and areas of focus, so the "better" option depends on what you are looking for in a university. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating these institutions:
Academic Focus and Programs:
- USF: USF is a private university with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, arts and sciences, education, nursing, and more. It is known for its smaller class sizes and personalized attention.
- SFSU: SFSU is a public university with a diverse range of academic programs and a focus on providing access to higher education for a broad and diverse student population. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across different fields.
Size and Campus:
- USF: USF has a smaller student population, which can lead to a more intimate and close-knit academic community. Its campus is located in a residential area of San Francisco.
- SFSU: SFSU is a larger university with a more extensive campus and a more diverse student body. The campus is located near the southwestern part of the city.
Cost and Financial Aid:
- USF: Being a private university, USF's tuition tends to be higher than that of public universities like SFSU. However, USF may offer various scholarships and financial aid options.
- SFSU: Public universities like SFSU typically have lower in-state tuition rates for California residents, and they may also offer financial aid opportunities.
Reputation and Rankings:
- Both universities have their own strengths and are respected institutions, but USF often ranks higher in national and international university rankings due to its smaller class sizes and resources.
Research Opportunities:
- If you are interested in research, SFSU may offer more extensive research opportunities in certain fields due to its public university status and larger faculty.
Location:
- Consider the location of each university and how it aligns with your preferences. USF is located near the city center, while SFSU is situated in a more suburban part of San Francisco.
Career Services and Alumni Network:
- Research the career services and alumni networks of both universities to see which one may better support your career goals and job placement after graduation.
Q: What is the ranking of San Francisco State University in the world?
San Francisco State University has been ranked has been ranked #234 by US News in its National Universities category. Apart from this, QS (Top Universities) has ranked SFSU #1201 in its World University Rankings for 2023. Also, SFSU has been placed at #1222 for 2023 by US News & World Report. For the last four years, US News has continuously downgraded SFSU's ranking from 972 in 2020 to 1222 in 2023.
SFSU Studying in USA
| Average Accommodation Expense | INR 6.7 L (based on 146 colleges) |
| Average Meals Expense | INR 3.9 L (based on 116 colleges) |
| Part Time Work | Permitted International students are allowed to work part-time for 20 hours per week during an academic term. |
| Post Study Work Permit | Permitted Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a one-year work and stay-back permit given to international students o... |
| Cost of Visa Application | USD 185 = INR 15,380.9 |
| Visa Application Process | Simple You will need an F1 visa if your course of study is a full-time degree. |
| Hot Job Sectors | IT, Tech, Energy, Healthcare, E-commerce and Business services are some of the popular job sectors in the U... |
| Economy Growth Rate | According to the BEA (Bureau of Economic Affairs), the Real GDP of USA was 2.1% in 2022. |
San Francisco State University Notable Alumni
Some of the popular notable alumni members at San Francisco State University are given as follows:
- David Carradine- TV Actor
- Kirk Hammett- Guitarist
- Johnny Mathis- Recording Artist
- Harry Shum- Film Actor and Dancer
- Anne Rice- Screenwriter
- Kari Byon- Sculptor
SFSU FAQs
Q: What is the application process for San Francisco State University?
As a part of the California State University, SFSU accepts international applications through the CSU Common Portal. For admission to graduate or undergraduate programs at SFSU, international applicants must visit this portal, create an account, provide the supporting documents, and pay the application fee of USD 70.
International students may refer to steps given below for better understanding of the application process:
Step 1: Visit the Cal State Apply portal at calstate.liaisoncas.com/applicant-ux/#/login and create an account.
Step 2: Add the programme of your choice and add details of the extended profile, including goal and visa.
Step 3: Add personal information, contact information, citizenship, ethnicity, and biographic information.
Step 4: Add academic history and supporting documents.
Step 5: Complete all four steps, pay the application fee, and submit the application form.
Next, wait for the results.
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SFSU Location
| University City | San Francisco, California, USA |
| Size of city | Medium |
| Population of City | 8,84,363 |
SFSU Contact Information
1600 Holloway Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94132
San Francisco ( California)
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