San Francisco State University
Innovate, impact, and thrive in the city.
📍 San Francisco, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #178 in United States · QS World #1401 · THE World #401
Quick Facts about San Francisco State University
- Founded: 1899
- Type: Public
- Students: 22,357
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $20,446 – $26,034/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: August, January
About San Francisco State University
Academics
SF State offers 126 bachelor's degree programs and 62 master's degree programs across its seven colleges. The university emphasizes hands-on, future-focused learning, preparing students for real-world success. Notable programs include those in science, business, public service, journalism, and the arts. The university also offers 37 blended bachelor's and master's degree programs, known as San Francisco State Scholars programs.
International Students
SF State provides comprehensive support to international students, including F-1 international student advising for current and prospective students, as well as alumni on OPT and STEM OPT. The university has a diverse international student body, with approximately 1,800 international students from over 100 countries each year. China, India, and Japan are among the top countries represented. The International Education Exchange Council (IEEC), SF State's largest student organization, facilitates intercultural engagement through events and programs like Language Exchange, connecting international and domestic students.
Campus & Location
SF State's 144.1-acre main campus is situated in the southwestern part of San Francisco, near Lake Merced and just 1.6 km from the Pacific Ocean. The campus features modern buildings, including state-of-the-art additions like the Science and Engineering Innovation Center. The Cesar Chavez Student Center serves as a hub for student life, offering a bookstore, restaurants, lounges, and a multicultural center. The university is well-connected by public transportation, with Muni bus routes and BART access to the Daly City station, making it easy to explore San Francisco's diverse attractions.
Career Outcomes
SF State's Career Services & Leadership Development (CSLD) office equips students and alumni with resources for career advancement, including workshops, job postings, networking events, and one-on-one counseling. Graduates find employment in various fields, with high earning potentials in engineering disciplines such as Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. The university fosters industry connections, with some alumni finding opportunities at major tech companies like Google, Apple, Facebook, Salesforce, PayPal, Symantec, and Cisco.
Information for International Students at San Francisco State University
San Francisco State University in San Francisco, United States welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for San Francisco State University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to San Francisco State University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Duolingo minimum: 120
- GPA minimum: 2.5
- Application fee: $70
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: Fall: May 1, Spring: September 30
Scholarships & Tuition at San Francisco State University
Annual tuition for international students: $20,446 – $26,034/year
✅ San Francisco State University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of San Francisco State University
- National Ranking: #178 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #1401
- Times Higher Education (THE): #401
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at San Francisco State University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Urban
Key Highlights
- Public research university
- Commitment to social justice
- Diverse academic programs
- Vibrant San Francisco location
- Strong international student support
Accreditation
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- AACSB International (for Business programs)
- Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications
- Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- National Association of Schools of Music Commission on Accreditation
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design Commission on Accreditation
Notable Alumni
- Genny Lim
- Harry Shum Jr.
- Carl Weathers
- Willie Brown Jr.
- Alvin Ailey
Frequently Asked Questions about San Francisco State University
What is San Francisco State University?
San Francisco State University is a public university located in San Francisco, United States, founded in 1899. It has approximately 22,357 students.
How much does it cost to study at San Francisco State University?
Tuition fees at San Francisco State University for international students range from $20,446 – $26,034/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for San Francisco State University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 120. GPA minimum: 2.5. Application fee: $70. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Fall: May 1, Spring: September 30.
What language are courses taught in at San Francisco State University?
Courses at San Francisco State University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
What is San Francisco State University ranked?
#178 in United States · QS World #1401 · THE World #401.
Does San Francisco State University offer scholarships?
Yes, San Francisco State University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does San Francisco State University provide visa support?
Yes, San Francisco State University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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