International Freshmen

Before you apply to SFSU, see if we offer a degree program that aligns with your passions and interests. With more than 65 majors, minors and concentrations to choose from, you’re sure to find a match. 

Not sure what you want to study? That’s OK, too! We’ll help you find your path.

Find your program

Our most popular programs include Business, Psychology, Biology, Engineering and Computer Science.    

All Programs

You are considered a freshman applicant if:

• You will have a high school diploma or equivalent and have not enrolled at any college or university beyond the summer immediately following your high school graduation.

You are considered an international applicant if:

• You plan to study at SFSU in F-1 student visa status.
• You are a U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident or are in another immigration status and have transcripts from an international institution.

For international applicants who attended a U.S. high school

1. Complete the required A-G college preparatory courses with a grade of C- or better
2. Meet the GPA requirements based on residency or high school

Students who don’t meet the outlined GPA requirements may be evaluated on supplemental factors.

3. Graduate from high school with a diploma or equivalent

For international applicants who attended a high school outside the U.S.

1. Complete a secondary/high school curriculum that totals 12 years of primary-secondary education and be qualified to enter a university in your home country.
2. Have a 2.50 grade point average (GPA) in the 4.00 grading scale or B- average in academic courses completed after ninth grade.
3. Have the equivalent of U.S. high school graduation. 

International ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

All SFSU undergraduate applicants, regardless of citizenship, must demonstrate English Language Proficiency before an admission decision can be made.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY 

It’s important to apply by the priority application deadline for your term of interest. 

Stay on track with your admission application by reviewing key dates and deadlines, including when applications open and close. Make sure to give yourself enough time to gather materials so you can submit your application before the deadline.

Dates and Deadlines 

Students planning to study in F-1 student visa status must show proof of financial ability to pay for tuition and living expenses for one academic year.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS for I-20 

• When you’re ready to apply, you can start your online application through Cal State Apply. 
• A $70 non-refundable application fee is due at the time of submission and can be paid by credit card or PayPal.
• SFSU uses your self-reported information from the application to make an admission decision, so it is extremely important that you answer all questions on the application completely and accurately.

International Application Checklist Apply now