The home of iconic sightseeing, innovative businesses and first-class universities, San Francisco is an attractive option for international students
Considered to be the economic, commercial and cultural hub of northern California, San Francisco is one of the most iconic cities in the US. The Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island may be two of the biggest draws for tourists visiting the city, but there are plenty of other reasons to visit, including several world-leading universities.
If you’re an international student considering San Francisco as a destination for your studies, then you’re in for a treat. The city has a large and diverse student population and boasts plenty of things to do when you’re not studying. If you want to know more about student life in San Francisco, this guide contains all the information you need.
The best universities for international students
San Francisco is host to around 25 universities in the city itself and approximately 90 colleges within a 25-mile radius. In addition to more traditional higher education institutions, San Francisco also offers law schools, medical schools, music colleges and more niche establishments. We’ve highlighted three of the best universities the city has to offer:
- The University of San Francisco: With almost 6,000 undergraduate students from 99 countries, the University of San Francisco prides itself on offering a welcoming, inclusive learning environment. It offers a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, rigorous academic programmes and an enviable location. The university also offers a messaging platform that lets prospective attendees chat with current students about their experiences.
- San Francisco State University: Offering undergraduate courses in 77 academic fields, San Francisco State University accepts nearly 30,000 new students each year, keen to explore and contribute to economic, cultural and civic life in the Bay Area and beyond. The university offers plenty of support for first-year international applicants as well as transfers from overseas institutions.
- University of California, San Francisco: Dedicated exclusively to the health sciences, UC San Francisco offers students a high-quality learning experience where research, teaching and patient care converge. Part of the 10-campus University of California, UC San Francisco produces an estimated $8.9 billion (£7.4 billion) in economic impact within the Bay Area each year.
Accommodation
Any university student has to assess their wants and needs before deciding on accommodation. Renting on-campus is likely to be one of the more affordable options available to you, but some students might prefer some distance between their studies and their home life. Opting for a shared room may also bring costs down but may be better suited to more outgoing, sociable types. Finally, private rentals in San Francisco can be pricey but can offer greater privacy away from campus.
Once you’re certain about what type of accommodation you want, you still have to decide where in San Francisco you’d like to be based. Mission Bay is one of the most popular areas of the city among students and young professionals, as is Showplace Square, with its collection of shops, gyms and bars. Meanwhile, the South of Market neighbourhood – known as SoMa – is known for its affordability and attractions, catering for fans of sport, art and nightlife.
Places to eat and drink
Unsurprising for a city of nearly one million people, San Francisco has plenty of food and drink options. Students can enjoy local chain Super Duper Burgers, delicious Mexican food at La Taqueria, or innovative ice cream flavours – like black sesame and honey lavender – at Bi-Rite Creamery.
If you’re looking for something to wash down all the tasty fare that San Francisco has to offer, then Butter provides refreshing cocktails, local DJs and karaoke nights. El Rio is a Brazilian-themed bar, while Blondie’s Bar is the place to go if you want some live music.
Things to do
You can’t really call San Francisco your home without taking a trip to the Golden Gate Bridge. Alcatraz Island is another of the city’s world-renowned sites and can be accessed by ferry from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing.
Nature lovers can enjoy a whale-watching tour in San Francisco Bay, where they can also spot seals, sea lions, dolphins and killer whales. Culture vultures should spend some time exploring the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, which is home to an impressive collection of painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, design and media arts.
Life on a budget
Life in San Francisco may not be the cheapest, but there are ways that students can make savings here and there. Make meals at home rather than eating out often and make the most of student discounts at places like Arby’s, Waffle House and other participating eateries to make your budget stretch a little further.
If you want a fun, free activity, remember the San Francisco Bay Area has some fantastic hikes. From the stunning views of Bernal Heights to the historical sites of Marin Headlands, there's plenty for students to see without spending a thing.
Places to study
In case you needed reminding, university life is primarily for studying – and San Francisco offers plenty of great locations that are ideal for just that. The San Francisco Public Library, for example, has four floors, private meeting rooms and the Poets Cafe coffee shop.
There are also plenty of beautiful outdoor areas to study in the city, including Golden Gate Park – which is larger than New York’s Central Park – Mission Dolores Park and many other green spaces. Take advantage of San Francisco’s great weather and let nature be your study companion.
Ready to book your flight? Find out more about Student Universe, a travel agency for students, offering exclusive discounts on flights to the US that you won’t find anywhere else.
