Quick Summary
Since 1897, San Diego State University has been one of United States's prominent publics, based in San Diego. Ranked #1001-1200 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 37402 students including 7% from outside United States. Known for strengths in International Business, Public Health, Education, it maintains an acceptance rate of 39%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
SDSU offers a top-tier education with a strong emphasis on research and global engagement, located in one of the most vibrant cities in the world.
Subject Strengths
International BusinessPublic HealthEducationPsychologyHospitality Management
Founded1897
TypePublic
Total Students37402
Intl Students7%
Faculty Ratio25
CampusUrban
Campus Size288 acres
Affiliated HospitalsSDSU Student Health Services, UC San Diego Health (Collaboration)
AccreditationWASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#1001-1200
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#501-600
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#601-700
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
197
Programs
30
PhD Programs
15
Online Programs
Coastal and Marine Institute, Center for Surf Research, SDSU Georgia, Center for Information Convergence and Strategy
Research Centers
High
Research Output
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate39%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL80
Min GPA3
GREOptional for most programs
GMATRequired for specific Business programs
SATNot required (Test Blind)
ACTNot required (Test Blind)
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · November 30
SPRINGApplication Deadline · August 31
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on maintaining a high cumulative GPA and completing all A-G requirements. High demand majors like Nursing require higher competitive scores.
05
Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$8,290/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$22,500/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$9,616/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$70
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$30,790/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$3,500
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from 197 programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Psychology | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Biology | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Criminal Justice | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Mechanical Engineering | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
07
Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$64,500
Average Salary After Graduation
89%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementHigh
Industry Connections
QualcommNorthrop GrummanSonyIlluminaSan Diego Zoo
Notable Alumni
Tony Gwynn, Gregory Peck, Kathleen Kennedy, Marshall Faulk, Ellen Ochoa
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Viejas Arena, Snapdragon Stadium, Aztec Recreation Center, Aquaplex
Student Clubs
350
Library Resources
Malcolm A. Love Library, Digital Humanities Center, Library Computing Hub
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available