San Francisco State University campus
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San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · Public · 18,639 students

A vibrant urban campus in the Bay Area hub.

Acceptance rate

96.4%

Avg net price

$12,278

after aid

Next deadline

Dec 1

RD

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the San Francisco State University admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

San Francisco State University admitted 96.4% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what San Francisco State University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

What they value

Academics for a Global Society

Our students are like no others. They are diverse in every sense of the word. They bring their rich lives into the classroom and contribute so that we all learn from each other.

SFSU offers a comprehensive range of bachelor’s degrees in 77 academic areas, master’s degrees in 63 areas, 16 credential programs, 57 certificate programs, and doctorate, Ph.D., and clinical doctorate programs.

  • Extensive Program OfferingsBachelor's, Master's, Credential, Certificate, Doctorate, Ph.D., Clinical Doctor
  • Seven Academic CollegesLam Family College of Business, College of Ethnic Studies, College of Health & S

Verified from sfsu.edu and future.sfsu.edu and sfsu.edu and international.sfsu.edu and webapps.sfsu.edu and sfsu.edu and sfsu.edu and sfsu.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • Next deadlineDecember 1, 2026 (RD)
  • Regular decisionDecember 1, 2026

Verified from sfsu.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $26,488. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $12,278.

SFSU is committed to making education affordable, believing that money shouldn’t come between you and a great education, and is ranked in the top 20 for U.S. universities on CollegeNET’s Social Mobility Index.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $68,077.

Verified from sfsu.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations19% of degrees
  • Psychology, General9% of degrees
  • Biology, General7% of degrees
  • Computer Science6% of degrees
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods4% of degrees
  • Communication and Media Studies4% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

A Tuesday here might involve exploring one of over 200 student organizations, engaging in a campus recreation activity at the Mashouf Wellness Center, or cheering on Gator Athletics.

Explore the beauty of the SFSU campus through guided tours from student ambassadors, discovering key facilities and the environment.

UrbanCommunity-focusedDiverse

Quick answers

What do people ask about San Francisco State University?

How hard is it to get into San Francisco State University?
Very hard. San Francisco State University admits 96.4% of applicants. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the San Francisco State University application deadline?
The next deadline is December 1, 2026 (RD). Regular Decision closes December 1, 2026.
How much does San Francisco State University cost?
The list price is about $26,488. After aid, families pay $12,278 on average.
Is San Francisco State University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $68,077 ten years after enrolling. 50% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about San Francisco State University.

Spike answers from San Francisco State University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.