
2130 Fulton St., San Francisco, CA 94117, USA


The University of San Francisco holds accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which is a regional accrediting body recognized for evaluating the quality and effectiveness of higher education institutions on the West Coast. This accreditation ensures that the university meets rigorous standards concerning academic programs, faculty qualifications, and institutional resources, offering a reliable measure of educational quality for prospective students.
The University of San Francisco maintains selective admission standards that require prospective students to have completed high school or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Applicants must submit secondary school records and meet a minimum grade point average, while providing secondary school rank is recommended but not mandatory. The university does not operate an open admission policy, underscoring its competitive nature.
Admission also depends on completing a college preparatory program. English proficiency must be demonstrated through the required Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for non-native speakers, while submission of other standardized test scores is recommended but not required. Though data on letters of recommendation and additional tests are not available, competencies beyond academic records are suggested to enhance an application.
Regarding standardized testing, the University of San Francisco considers SAT and ACT scores as part of the evaluation process. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1290, placing them in approximately the top 20 percentile nationally. Both SAT math and writing sections average 645 each, reflecting strong academic preparation. The mean ACT score for enrolled students is 29, ranking in the top 15 percent of test takers. The acceptance rate stands at around 51 percent, indicating moderate selectivity.
The University of San Francisco requires prospective students to pay a nonrefundable application fee to process their enrollment requests. This fee must be submitted along with the application form to be considered complete. However, the university provides options for applicants facing financial hardship to have this fee waived.
Applicants who demonstrate economic need or meet certain eligibility criteria may request a waiver of the application fee, which helps to reduce barriers to applying. To obtain a fee waiver, students typically need to follow the university's outlined procedures, which may include submitting supporting documentation or qualifying under specific programs recognized by the institution.
These fee waivers ensure that financial considerations do not prevent qualified candidates from applying, fostering a more inclusive admissions process. Prospective students are encouraged to review the university's application instructions carefully to understand how to apply for a fee waiver if applicable.
University of San Francisco offers Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs directly on its campus. Students interested in military training and leadership development can participate in these programs without needing to attend a cooperating host institution. This on-campus presence allows for a more integrated experience within the university community and provides accessible opportunities for those pursuing military commissions alongside their academic studies.
University of San Francisco welcomes transfer students for both the fall and spring terms, providing flexibility for applicants planning their enrollment. The institution has a moderately difficult admissions process, reflecting a balanced level of selectiveness for prospective transfers.
Transfer applicants can submit credits earned through recognized examinations, as the university accepts both College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) subject exams and DANTES credit. Additionally, credit transfer is broadly supported, with the university open to accepting previous college coursework.
Recommendations from previous instructors or academic advisors are also considered as part of the admissions process, which may enhance an applicant's profile.
University of San Francisco offers a range of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. Prospective students can participate in semester-long or year-long exchange programs as well as shorter summer programs across various global locations. These programs emphasize immersive learning by combining coursework with cultural exploration.
Students can choose from faculty-led trips that focus on specific disciplines or international internships that provide practical experience in diverse settings. Additionally, the university maintains partnerships with numerous institutions worldwide, facilitating credit transfer and academic continuity for students studying abroad.
The university provides comprehensive support services for participants, including pre-departure orientations and assistance with housing and visas, to ensure a smooth transition and productive study abroad experience.
Median composite SAT score
1290Median composite ACT score
29Percent of students submitting ACT scores
2.61%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
12.39%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
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (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 on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring