San Francisco State University
The Vibe Check
San Francisco State University pulses with creative, activist energy, deeply influenced by its iconic San Francisco location. The campus feels like a dynamic hub where diverse voices converge, fostering a culture of social awareness and artistic expression. It's a place where you'll feel constantly inspired by the city's innovation and the campus's vibrant, inclusive community.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
SFSU is renowned for its strengths in visual and performing arts, business, and social sciences, with strong ties to the city's creative and tech industries. The university emphasizes practical, hands-on learning and offers numerous research opportunities, particularly through its connection to the SF Bay Area ecosystem. While large class sizes exist, dedicated faculty provide mentorship, especially for students who proactively seek it.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in San Francisco
Student life at SFSU is deeply integrated with San Francisco, offering endless opportunities for exploration, from hiking in Golden Gate Park to discovering street art in the Mission District. Students enjoy a vibrant food scene, live music, and easy access to tech and arts events, making the city itself an extension of the campus. Many students also participate in clubs, Greek life, or intramural sports to build community on campus.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($68,077):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The main campus is located in a residential neighborhood and has its own University Police Department, with safety escorts available. While the surrounding area is generally safe, students should exercise standard urban awareness, especially at night or when traveling to off-campus locations.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Prime location in San Francisco offers unparalleled internship and networking opportunities.
- ✓ Strong programs in arts, humanities, and business with direct ties to the local industry.
- ✓ Highly diverse student body and inclusive campus culture.
- ✓ Relatively affordable in-state tuition for California residents.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate is lower than the national average, requiring strong student self-motivation.
- ✗ Large class sizes can be impersonal, especially in introductory courses.
- ✗ Urban setting and commuter-heavy population can make it harder to build a tight-knit campus community.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
SFSU is particularly well-known for its College of Liberal & Creative Arts, with top-tier programs in film, theater, and music. It is also recognized for its strong business school and its historic role as a center for social change and activism, reflecting the progressive spirit of San Francisco.
No, San Francisco State University has a very high acceptance rate of 96.15%, making it an accessible option for a wide range of students. While admission is not highly selective, applicants are still expected to meet the CSU system's A-G course requirements and demonstrate academic readiness.
Campus life at SFSU is a mix of traditional college activities and the broader San Francisco experience. Students can join over 300 clubs, participate in Division II athletics, or get involved in student government. However, as many students commute, campus life is most vibrant during the day and around scheduled events, with the city offering the main backdrop for social activities.
For California residents, SFSU is an outstanding value, offering a reputable education at a very low tuition rate. The strong regional reputation and proximity to major employers in tech, arts, and business provide excellent career opportunities, making the investment highly worthwhile. For out-of-state students, the value depends on the specific program and career goals, but the unique location can still provide a competitive edge.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1899
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 24,947
- In-State Tuition $7,424
- Out-of-State $19,304
- Zip Code 94132
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a low in-state tuition and a high average net price, SFSU offers an excellent value for California residents, especially considering its strong regional reputation. The 10-year median earnings of $68,077 suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like business and health professions. For out-of-state students, the higher cost requires careful consideration, but the unique location and program strengths can still justify the expense.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.