
1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132-1722, USA


San Francisco State University holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), a recognized regional accrediting body in the United States. This accreditation confirms that the university meets defined standards of quality and effectiveness in its educational programs, governance, and student services.
In addition to institutional accreditation, several of its specialized programs have received accreditation from relevant professional organizations. These accreditations ensure that individual academic programs adhere to industry-specific criteria and prepare students to meet professional standards in their respective fields.
San Francisco State University requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or equivalent high school education. A secondary school GPA and official school records must be submitted as part of the application process, while a specific high school class rank is recommended but not mandatory. Applicants must have completed a college preparatory program, and submission of recommendation letters, demonstration of competencies, and admission test scores are recommended to enhance the application.
English language proficiency is required, demonstrated by TOEFL scores, though other standardized test results may be recommended. The university does not have an open admission policy, meaning it applies selective criteria in its admissions process. College credit, including Advanced Placement (AP) credits, is accepted for qualifying courses. A computer is not required for application, but computer leasing options may be available.
Application volume is notably high, with nearly 30,000 applicants and approximately 28,700 admissions, reflecting a broad interest and competitive admissions environment. The acceptance rate stands at around 96%, indicating a relatively high likelihood of admission for qualified applicants. Enrollment figures show about 3,000 students matriculating, with a balanced gender split among those admitted and enrolled.
San Francisco State University requires prospective undergraduate applicants to pay an application fee upon submission. This fee is set at a standard amount that helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications. For graduate applicants, the fee might differ based on the specific program or department.
Applicants who may face financial hardships have the option to request a fee waiver. To qualify for this waiver, individuals typically need to provide documentation demonstrating economic need or eligibility under certain criteria, such as participation in federal assistance programs.
Fee waivers are intended to reduce barriers for students from diverse economic backgrounds, ensuring broader access to higher education opportunities at the university.
San Francisco State University does not currently host any Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) branch units on its campus. Prospective students interested in ROTC programs would need to seek opportunities through cooperating host institutions, as no specific ROTC branch unit is affiliated directly with this university.
San Francisco State University allows transfer students to begin their studies in the fall and spring terms. The university accepts various credit examinations, including CLEP general and subject exams as well as DANTES credits, which can facilitate the transfer process for eligible students. Additionally, transfer applications that include letters of recommendation are accepted, adding an evaluative component beyond standard academic records.
San Francisco State University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs include semester and year-long exchanges as well as shorter faculty-led trips during summer or winter sessions. Students can choose from a diverse range of destinations across Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Oceania, allowing them to tailor their international education to their academic goals and personal interests.
The university collaborates with partner institutions worldwide to provide semester-long exchange programs, where students pay tuition to San Francisco State University while attending classes overseas. This option enables students to immerse themselves in a foreign academic environment while maintaining progress toward their degree requirements.
Additionally, shorter-term faculty-led programs offer students focused study on specific subjects combined with cultural excursions. These trips usually last a few weeks and are integrated with academic coursework, making them an accessible option for students who cannot commit to a full semester abroad.
San Francisco State University also supports internships and service-learning programs abroad, providing practical experience in international settings. This variety of formats-exchange programs, faculty-led courses, internships, and service opportunities-gives students flexibility in how they can incorporate global study into their university journey.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
Data not availablePossible transfer
Fall, Spring