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Study in San Francisco

Find programs that match your eligibility and aspirations then apply with reduced application fees, a free assessment and access to a dedicated advisor.

Why study in San Francisco?

San Francisco is one of most iconic cities in the US, home of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and Coit Tower. Famous for its rolling fog and diverse spirit, San Fran is also regarded as the cultural, commercial and financial center of Northern California.

The city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US, and it also boasts a large and vibrant student population. There are several top universities and colleges located in San Francisco and the surrounding area, and the city’s accepting and artistic atmosphere make it an exciting option for international students.

Universities in San Francisco

San Francisco is a hub for education, with around 25 universities in the city, and 90 colleges within a 25-mile radius, including some of the very best institutions in the US.

As well as traditional universities and liberal arts schools, there are also law schools, medical schools, art institutes and music colleges you can attend in San Francisco, giving you a wide range of options.

What to study in San Francisco

Thanks to the large and varied range of higher education institutions available in San Francisco, you're bound to find the right program for you, either at undergraduate or postgraduate level.

San Francisco is home to one of the country’s best medical schools, so health and medicine programs are popular options for students studying in the city. There are also a large number of well regarded arts schools in the area, and business and technology are also popular thanks to the city’s proximity to Silicon Valley.

Find & apply to programs in San Francisco

Find programs you love that match your needs & aspirations, where you stand a high chance of acceptance.

Program level

Why use Studee?

We maximize your chance of being admitted with our free, 48 hour fast-track assessment (worth $185*)
  1. Find your ideal program

    Filter 10,000s of programs down to a shortlist perfect for you, where you have a strong chance of getting admitted

  2. Apply online via Studee

    Complete our application form and enjoy reduced application fees and access to unique Studee scholarships for many universities

  3. We assess within 48hrs

    We complete an 85-point assessment within 2 business days, help you with improvements then submit to your university

  4. University offer in 2-4 weeks

    We chase the university for your admission decision and keep you updated. We all celebrate your admission!

Carbon compensation - We'll plant trees in your name to compensate for the carbon generated by all your flights to and from university.

All our services are 100% free as we're funded by universities. You pay deposits and tuition fees directly to the university.

* Price based on similar application assessment services from other providers

Student reviews for San Francisco

  • Devansh Goel
    United States
    Overall experience 4 stars
    Academic
    5 stars
    University social
    3 stars
    Accommodation
    3 stars
    University facilities
    4 stars
    California State University, East Bay Computer Science
    Tell us about San Francisco
    My college is situated in Hayward. I lived there for approx. 1 year. I have not engaged in roaming around or sightseeing. I also did not go out for night parties etc., the reason was that I came to California to pursue a dream of perfection and did not want to waste my parent's hard earned money for my leisure.
  • Olivia Rodrigues
    India
    Overall experience 5 stars
    Academic
    5 stars
    University social
    4 stars
    Accommodation
    5 stars
    University facilities
    5 stars
    California State University, East Bay Business Analytics
    Tell us about San Francisco
    California it’s best due to Silicon Valley access. There are lot of startups therefore good job opportunities.
  • Sameera Afroze Pathan
    India
    Overall experience 4 stars
    Academic
    3 stars
    University social
    3 stars
    Accommodation
    4 stars
    University facilities
    3 stars
    California State University, East Bay Computer Science
    Tell us about San Francisco
    Hayward. It is not so comfortable to travel to university because it is right up the hill. Coming to shops, they are little far for students to go. The university is absolutely welcoming and facilities are really good.
  • Nishtha Ranpara
    India
    Overall experience 5 stars
    Academic
    5 stars
    University social
    4 stars
    Accommodation
    4 stars
    University facilities
    5 stars
    California State University, East Bay Business Analytics
    Tell us about San Francisco
    The city in which I am studying is very beautiful and peaceful. As in it has the academic atmosphere all over. The main advantage is the transportation is very good. The frequency of barts and buses are high, so we can commute easily everywhere.

How to study in San Francisco

The first step to studying in San Francisco is working out what program you want to study, and which university you’d like to go to. You’ll then need to make sure you meet the program’s entry requirements before you apply.

The application process will be unique for each university, but you will usually need to fill out an application form and submit any other requested documents. These can include things like academic transcripts, proof of finances, references and a written statement.

Once you’ve applied and secured your place at the university of your choice, you’ll need to apply for a US student visa. You will need this before you can travel to study and live in the USA.

Cost to study in San Francisco

The cost of studying in San Francisco is similar to other large US cities, but tuition fees will vary based on the university, level of study and program. Public universities tend to be cheaper, and can cost around $10,000 per academic year, but private universities can cost up to $65,000 per year.

Living in San Francisco can be pricey, and it is often considered to be one of the most expensive places to live in the US. Renting is particularly expensive, so choosing to live on campus could be a way to save money.

Key facts of San Francisco

  • 60 / 51°F Summer/winter temperature
  • 884,363 Population
  • 25 Universities
  • US Country