Founded in 1899, SF State enrolls more international students than any other master's degree-granting institution in the United States, according to the Institute of International Education.

Academics
Academic calendar comprises two 16-week semesters, late August through December; late January through May; and a summer semester: June through August.

SF State has 8 academic colleges, which are Behavioral and Social Sciences, Business
Creative Arts, Education, Ethnic Studies, Health and Human Services, Humanities, Science and Engineering. There are all kinds of degrees offered by the colleges of SF State:

•    Bachelor's degrees in 115 areas of specialization
•    Master's degrees in 95 areas of specialization
•    Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership
•    Ph.D. in education with a concentration in special education, jointly with UC Berkeley
•    M.S. in physical therapy leading to a clinical doctoral degree (D.P.T.) and a research doctorate for licensed physical therapists (D.P.T.Sc.), jointly with UC San Francisco
Moreover, SF State offers 27 credential programs and 36 certificate programs.

College of Extended Education helps working professionals and people who are unable to attend day classes to receive convenient education opportunities, which include online classes, weekend and evening courses, CD-ROM and video materials and the like.

SF State is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Financial Aid
San Francisco State University takes great pride in offering a high quality and affordable education to students from all backgrounds. Half of the students receive some form of financial aid to help meet tuition cost. Available financial aid includes grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study program.