University of San Francisco, USA - Ranking, Reviews, Courses, Tuition Fees

Overview

About University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco (USF) was established in 1855 as St. Ignatius Academy. For over a century and a half, USF has dedicated itself to offering a dynamic liberal arts education rooted in the Jesuit Catholic tradition.

USF offers over 80 undergraduate programs across various subject areas in the arts and sciences, business, and nursing and health professions. Students can also choose from more than 60 graduate programs in these fields of study.

The university provides students with a wide range of resources and support services that ensure that they have opportunities to grow as individuals and academics in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment. USF’s comprehensive program of student services includes a student health clinic, counseling services, and a disability resource center.

Situated in the heart of the city, USF is a microcosm of what makes San Francisco special: natural beauty, varied cultural influences, and incredible cuisine from all around the world. USF’s hilltop campus, spread across 55 acres, houses five schools and a vibrant student community of students inspired to change the world. Students have easy access to all that San Francisco has to offer: distinct neighborhoods, internships in the Financial District, recreation in Golden Gate Park, and music and museums south of Market Street.

Graduate outcomes

Graduates of the University of San Francisco benefit from strong career preparation, which is supported by the university’s close ties to industry and its location, being situated in one of the world’s leading innovation hubs.

USF puts a strong focus on experiential learning, with many programs incorporating internships, service learning, placements, and the opportunity to work on real projects with existing organizations. These help students to build on their knowledge but also develop professional skills ahead of their next career moves.

The USF Career Services Center offers comprehensive support, including career coaching, resume and interview workshops, career fairs and more. Students will have ample guidance as they make the decisions on what their future looks like, whether that’s pursuing more study or moving into a full-time working role.

USF alumni form a powerful global network, working across business, technology, healthcare, education, law, and the nonprofit sector. Graduates are represented in leading organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area and around the world.

This active alumni community provides mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities, helping new graduates transition into the global workforce and achieve long-term career success.

Latest News

The university continues to invest in new programs and campus improvements to give students an up-to-date and high-quality learning experience.

One of the most important recent developments is the redesign of the undergraduate core curriculum. This updated structure places a stronger focus – across all programs - on global learning, hands-on experience, sustainability, and social responsibility. These changes will help students build practical skills, improve critical thinking, and prepare for international careers.

USF has also expanded opportunities for students interested in business and innovation through its Entrepreneurship and Innovation Initiative.

This program is now open to students from all majors and allows them to develop new ideas, work with experienced mentors, and take part in startup projects. Students can access workshops, incubator spaces, and funding opportunities that help turn ideas into real projects.

In addition to academic improvements, the university has made significant investments in its campus facilities. Teaching buildings, student housing, and shared spaces have been upgraded to provide modern, comfortable, and well-equipped environments for study and daily life.

There are also ongoing plans for further development and renovation across a five-year and ten-year period.

Finances

How much will it cost?

Average tuition fees per year

13,09,772 Undergraduate Fees are for indicative purposes, check with institution for details

24,28,069 Postgraduate Fees are for indicative purposes, check with institution for details

Scholarships & funding

There are a variety of scholarships and financial support options available to students, designed to make high-quality education more accessible for students from around the world.

Financial assistance for international students is typically awarded on the basis of academic merit or through assistantship roles. International undergraduate students are automatically awarded merit scholarships, whereas graduate students should apply for scholarships directly through their graduate program.

Students are encouraged to explore early planning options and receive guidance through the university’s financial aid and student accounts offices. These teams provide clear advice on tuition payments, installment plans, and budgeting support, helping students manage their finances throughout their studies.

External funding opportunities, private sponsorships, and government-backed loans are also recognized, and students receive support when preparing the documentation needed to apply.

Eligibility

Entry requirements

The university welcomes applications from international students for undergraduate programs and graduate programs and maintains clear, structured entry requirements designed to ensure students are well prepared for academic success.

Applicants are typically required to have completed a recognized high school qualification or equivalent for undergraduate entry, or an accredited bachelor’s degree for graduate study. Each academic program may have specific subject prerequisites or academic standards.

All instruction at USF is delivered in English. International applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate language proficiency.

This is usually done through recognized English language tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test, or by providing evidence of prior education completed in English at an approved institution. Minimum score requirements vary by program.

Students are required to submit a completed online application, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and supporting documents such as a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a copy of their passport. Some programs may also request a portfolio or interview.

Dedicated admissions and international offices provide guidance throughout the application process.

Department and Faculty

Teaching quality

USF is recognized for delivering a high-quality, student-centered education that combines academic rigor with real-world relevance. Teaching at USF is grounded in small class sizes and interactive learning, allowing students to engage directly with faculty and benefit from personalized academic support. This approach encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and practical problem-solving across all areas of study.

Courses are taught by experienced faculty members who are respected scholars and active professionals in their fields. Many instructors bring industry, research, and community experience into the classroom, ensuring that teaching reflects current global trends and professional standards.

Faculty are supported by continuous professional development, helping to maintain high standards of innovation in teaching and curriculum design.

USF places a strong emphasis on experiential and practice-based learning. Programs often include case studies, service learning, internships, laboratory work, and project-based assessments.

This blend of theory and application helps students develop both subject knowledge and transferable skills valued by employers worldwide. Through this innovative and supportive teaching approach, USF prepares students to succeed in a competitive global environment.

Department structure

The University of San Francisco is organized into a clear and diverse academic structure that supports a wide range of academic interests and career goals. The university is made up of several schools and colleges, each focused on specialist teaching, research, and professional preparation.

Key academic divisions at USF include:

College of Arts and Sciences
School of Management
School of Nursing and Health Professions
School of Education
School of Law

Within these schools, students can choose from a broad selection of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as business, computer science, data science, engineering, health sciences, international studies, psychology, communications, and the humanities.

Research is supported through specialist centers and institutes that focus on areas such as social justice, environmental sustainability, urban studies, public health, technology, and global development. These institutes provide opportunities for students to take part in applied research, interdisciplinary projects, and community-focused initiatives.

This structured academic environment allows for strong collaboration between departments and encourages interdisciplinary learning. Students benefit from flexible study pathways, access to expert academic staff, and opportunities to combine majors or explore electives across multiple subject areas.