About
San Diego State University (SDSU) is a public research university in San Diego, California. It is the oldest and largest higher education institution in the San Diego area and is among the top 20 largest universities in the nation. Founded in 1897 as the San Diego Normal School, the institution evolved from a teachers' college to a liberal arts college, and finally to a major comprehensive university.
What is the acceptance rate at San Diego State University?
San Diego State University acceptance rate is 38%, making it a selective university. SDSU is a diverse and vibrant community of 35,000+ students, and it is committed to providing them with high-quality education and enriching experiences, preparing them for success in the global economy.
SDSU University offers 200+ undergraduate and graduate programs in many disciplines, including business, engineering, education, the humanities, the natural and social sciences, and the performing and visual arts. The university is also home to several nationally ranked programs, including the Fowler College of Business, the College of Engineering, and the College of Education.
San Diego State University is a Carnegie-classified Doctoral University with High Research Activity. The university's research portfolio includes more than $200 million in annual funding from federal and private sources. SDSU faculty and students are engaged in cutting-edge research in various areas, including climate change, public health, and cybersecurity. San Diego State University ranking in 2024 by QS World University Rankings is #1001.
What is the San Diego State University minimum GPA Requirement?
San Diego State University recommends a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0. To be competitive, you should aim for a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Top Reasons to Study in the San Diego State University
Several reasons add to the popularity of international students' demand to study at San Diego State University. Here are some of the top reasons:
- Academic excellence: SDSU University offers many undergraduate and graduate programs, many of which are highly ranked. The university is also a leading research institution, with faculty members conducting groundbreaking research in various fields.
- Career opportunities: SDSU is located in a major economic hub, with many companies and organizations looking to hire qualified graduates. The university also has a strong alumni network that can help students find jobs after graduation.
- Vibrant campus life: SDSU University has a vibrant campus life, with various clubs and organizations, sporting events and concerts, and many cultural attractions that San Diego has to offer.
- Location: SDSU is located in San Diego, California, a beautiful city with a year-round mild climate. Students can enjoy the beach, the mountains, and the desert all within a short drive of campus.
These reasons are just a glimpse of what you will learn and explore at SDSU University. To know more, click here.
Admissions
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
38%
Application Fee
$70 - $95
How to Apply at San Diego State University
San Diego State University admissions are offered in its eight colleges offering 96 bachelor's, 80 master's, and 21 doctoral programs. Currently, there are 1,889 international students from 90 countries studying across undergraduate and graduate courses at SDSU. International students must follow these steps to smoothen their application process to SDSU University:
Be an early bird: San Diego State University admissions deadlines vary program-wise, and missing them can severely affect your chances of getting in. SDSU accepts international first-year applications from October 1 till December 15. San Diego State University application deadline for undergraduate international students has now passed.
Review the admission requirements for international students: The eligibility criteria for international students vary slightly from domestic students, in terms of GPA, English proficiency, and standardized scores.
Submit your application online: Applicants can apply through the SDSU University Application Portal.
Submit all required supporting documents, including:
- Official transcripts from all high schools and universities attended.
- English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS).
- Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT).
- A financial statement.
- Letters of recommendation from teachers and/or guidance counselors.
- A personal statement.
- Additional documents like a copy of your passport and financial statements.
Pay the application fee: The application fee for international students is $70 (INR 5,330).
Documents Required to Apply to San Diego State University
San Diego State University acceptance rate is 38%, making it a moderately selective and competitive institute to get into. International students must keep the following documents up-to-date before beginning their application process to SDSU:
UNDERGRADUATE
|
DOCUMENT |
DESCRIPTION |
|
High School Transcripts |
Official transcripts, translated into English. |
|
GPA |
3.0 |
|
From academic counselors or others. |
|
|
Statement of Purpose |
Talk about your extracurriculars and how you are competent to study at SDSU. |
|
Standardized Scores |
SAT, ACT, IELTS, TOEFL, DUOLINGO, PTE Scores. |
|
Application Fee |
Non-refundable application fee of $70 (INR 5,330). |
POSTGRADUATE
|
DOCUMENT |
DESCRIPTION |
|
Bachelor’s Degree (US Equivalent) |
Official transcripts, translated into English. |
|
GPA |
3.0 (83 - 86%) |
|
3 Letters of Recommendation |
From academic counselors or others. |
|
Talk about your extracurriculars and how you are competent to study at SDSU |
|
|
Resume or CV |
Talk about your work experience, certifications, and other achievements. |
|
Interview |
By invitation only. |
|
Standardized Scores |
GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL Scores. |
|
Application Fee |
Non-refundable application fee of $70 (INR 5,330). |
Campus Life
Transportation in the city
The primary public transportation providers in San Diego are:
- The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates buses, trolleys, and a light rail system. The trolley is the most popular option for getting around downtown San Diego.
- The North County Transit District (NCTD) operates buses and trains in northern San Diego County.
- Amtrak operates a train service between San Diego and Los Angeles.
- The San Diego Trolley is a light rail system running through downtown San Diego and out to several different neighborhoods. It is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
- The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is a train service between San Diego and Los Angeles. It is an excellent option if you are traveling between the two cities and want to enjoy the scenery.
- Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are popular options for getting around San Diego, especially when with a group or luggage.
- Biking is a great way to get around San Diego if you are in good shape and do not mind the heat. There are many bike lanes and paths in the city.
Services offered by the university
San Diego State University offers many services to its students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community. These services include:
- Academic services: SDSU offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as various certificates and minors. The university also has several research centers and institutes, which provide students and faculty with opportunities to conduct cutting-edge research.
- Student services: SDSU provides various student services to help students succeed academically and personally. These services include academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, financial aid assistance, and student health services.
- Campus life: SDSU has a vibrant campus life, with 400+ student organizations and clubs to choose from, which offer various recreational and athletic facilities, as well as arts and cultural events.
- Community services: SDSU offers various community services to the surrounding community, through educational programs, cultural events, and volunteer opportunities.
These are some basic services provided by SDSU University. However, some special services are also offered for international students, the disabled, and individuals belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.
Student life at San Diego State University
San Diego State University offers many student activities and organizations, so there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular student activities at SDSU include:
- Athletics: SDSU is a member of the Mountain West Conference and competes in Division I of the NCAA. The Aztecs have several nationally ranked athletic teams, including the football, basketball, and baseball teams. Students can attend games for free with their student ID card.
- Student government: The Associated Students (A.S.) is the student government body at SDSU. A.S. represents the interests of students to the university administration and provides various services to students, including transportation, dining, and entertainment.
- Academic clubs: SDSU has over 300 academic clubs, covering many interests. Academic clubs are a great way to meet other students who share your academic interests and to learn more about your field of study.
- Arts and culture: SDSU has a thriving arts and culture scene, with regular performances and exhibitions taking place on campus. The university has two art galleries, a theater, and a concert hall. SDSU also hosts various cultural events throughout the year.
These are just a few factors that make SDSU University’s student life so happening. If you go there, you will feel involved and get various opportunities to shine as an individual.
On campus accomodation at San Diego State University
San Diego State University (SDSU) offers various on-campus housing options for undergraduate and graduate students. Here is an overview of the different types of on-campus housing offered at SDSU:
- Traditional Halls: Traditional halls are the most common type of on-campus housing at SDSU. These halls usually offer double and triple rooms, as well as shared bathrooms. Traditional halls also offer various community amenities, such as common areas, study lounges, and kitchens.
- Suite-Style Halls: Suite-style halls offer students more privacy and independence than traditional halls. Suites usually consist of two or four bedrooms, as well as a shared living room and bathroom. Suite-style halls also offer various community amenities, such as common areas, study lounges, and kitchens.
- Apartments: SDSU University also offers a limited number of on-campus apartments, which are ideal for students who want more space and privacy than what is offered in traditional or suite-style halls. Apartments usually have one or two bedrooms, as well as a full kitchen and bathroom.
Some special housing communities include:
- Freshman Interest Communities.
- Living Learning Communities.
- International Student Housing.
To apply for on-campus housing at SDSU, students must submit a housing application and pay a deposit. The housing application process opens in early spring for the following academic year. Students are encouraged to apply early, as housing assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information about on-campus housing at SDSU, please visit the SDSU Housing Website.
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
San Diego State University has a vast faculty, and some of its statistics are:
- As of October 2023, San Diego State University has 1,300+ faculty members.
- Of those faculty members, 64% are tenured or tenure-track, and 36% are non-tenure-track.
- 39% of SDSU faculty are women, and 29% are people of color.
- SDSU faculty have earned over 100 Fulbright awards, making it one of the top producers of Fulbright scholars in the United States.
- SDSU faculty have received over $192 million in research funding in 2023, the highest amount in university history.
Career Opportunities
Internship opportunities at San Diego State University
San Diego State University offers many internship and part-time job opportunities to its students, available on-campus, off-campus, and through the university's many partners. On-campus internships and part-time jobs are a great way to gain valuable work experience while also earning money to help cover your educational expenses. Some of the most popular options include:
- Academic department internships: Many academic departments at SDSU offer internship opportunities to their students. These internships can be paid or unpaid, and they can provide students with hands-on experience in their field of study.
- Student assistant positions: Student assistants are hired to provide support to faculty and staff in academic departments, administrative offices, and other areas of the university. Student assistant positions can be paid or unpaid, and they can be a great way to gain experience in various areas, such as research, writing, and office administration.
- Work-study jobs: Work-study jobs are paid on-campus jobs that are available to students who have financial need. Work-study jobs can be found in various departments and offices across the university.
Working can be elemental, especially for international students. Through the array of opportunities offered by SDSU, you will find internships or part-time jobs on campus and in the surrounding community.
Placement of San Diego State University
Job Placement: San Diego State University (SDSU) graduates are highly sought-after by employers in many industries. According to the SDSU Career Services website, 96% of SDSU graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Hiring Companies: Some of the top employers for SDSU University graduates include:
- Amazon
- Apple
- Microsoft
- Qualcomm
- Raytheon Technologies
- Northrop Grumman
- Intuit
- Deloitte
- PwC
- KPMG
- EY
Salaries: The average starting salary for SDSU University graduates varies depending on their major, but it is generally higher than the national average for college graduates. In 2022, the average starting salary for SDSU graduates was $62,000 (INR 51,64,488).
Popular Courses · 90
B.A in Anthropology
14,138
tuition / yr
BA in Communication
7,510
tuition / yr
BS in Accounting
20,054
tuition / yr
BS in Aerospace Engineering
21,328
tuition / yr
BS in Applied Mathematics
20,054
tuition / yr
BS in Civil Engineering
67,574
tuition / yr
BS in Computer Science
21,328
tuition / yr
BS in Construction Engineering
20,054
tuition / yr
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average living expenses for masters at the San Diego State University?
What is the student faculty ratio at the San Diego State University?
How many campuses does San Diego State University have ?
What is the global ranking of San Diego State University?
What factors should be considered when choosing the San Diego State University
Does San Diego State University provide scholarships for international students?
Is the San Diego State University a good university?
What are the top courses that one can pursue at San Diego State University?
What is the San Diego State University GPA requirement?
Last updated June 10, 2026