San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University admits 96.2% of applicants, meaning roughly 24 in 25 applicants receive admission offers. This places San Francisco State University among the most accessible four-year institutions in the United States. The peer median admission rate of 78.1% highlights that San Francisco State University is significantly more accessible than typical four-year institutions, with an 18 percentage point difference in acceptance rates.

This level of accessibility means that most academically prepared students can expect admission to San Francisco State University. The Open Access designation reflects the university's mission to serve diverse student populations, including many who might face barriers at more selective institutions. Students should view San Francisco State University as a reliable option when building their college lists, with admission likelihood primarily dependent on meeting basic academic requirements rather than competing against thousands of similar applicants. For students prioritizing accessibility alongside strong career outcomes, San Francisco State University represents an excellent combination of opportunity and results.

San Francisco State University offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with sufficient federal earnings data for ranking. Business Administration and Management ranks #22 nationally and #7 in California, producing 1,477 graduates with median earnings of $68,626 and a value score of 93.8. Adult Health Nurse ranks #3 nationally and #3 in California, graduating 114 students with exceptional median earnings of $132,542.

Computer Science ranks #34 nationally and #11 in California, graduating 265 students with median earnings of $102,977. Communication and Media Studies ranks #23 nationally and #8 in California, with 406 graduates earning $57,672. Psychology ranks #55 nationally and #12 in California, graduating 408 students with median earnings of $48,599. Digital Communication and Media ranks #7 nationally and #1 in California, reflecting San Francisco State University's strength in communications fields.

San Francisco State University's published cost of attendance is $25,258 per year, including $19,304 in out-of-state tuition, $17,955 for room and board, and $1,099 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $12,882 after financial aid, representing savings of $12,376 from the sticker price. In-state students face lower tuition of $7,424, making the effective cost significantly more manageable for California residents.

The average net price of $12,882 falls $2,708 below the peer median of $15,590, indicating that San Francisco State University provides better-than-typical affordability within its institutional peer group. This combination of moderate sticker prices and substantial financial aid creates accessibility for students from various economic backgrounds, aligning with the university's mission as a public institution serving diverse California communities.

San Francisco State University graduates demonstrate steady earnings growth over time. Median earnings rise from $52,650 six years after enrollment to $60,831 at eight years and $68,077 at ten years, representing 29.3% growth from the six-year mark. These outcomes are based on a ten-year cohort of 7,816 graduates, providing high confidence in the reported figures.

Graduates earn $13,717 beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, placing San Francisco State University in the 89.8th percentile for earnings uplift. Low-income graduates earn $54,000, demonstrating meaningful economic advancement. Earnings span from $38,781 at the 25th percentile to $100,910 at the 75th percentile, reflecting differences in program choice and career trajectory. Approximately 24.4% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating balanced preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education.