About this program

Study English in San Francisco, one of the most international cities in the U.S. In the English for Academic Preparation (EAP) program, you build your English skills in an intensive program that focuses on university preparation and academic success.

International students learning English in a class at San Framcisco State University

Curriculum

Explore the EAP curriculum to see how you build your English skills step by step. You take courses in reading, writing, listening and speaking while developing the academic skills you need for university study.

Curriculum
SFSU students sit together in a group on the campus lawn

How to Apply

Ready to get started? Learn how to apply and take the next step toward studying at SFSU.

How to Apply
International students at the Golden Gate Bridge

Gateway Program

Build your English skills while you take an SFSU course for credit in the Gateway Program. You receive support to understand your coursework and complete assignments as you prepare for university study.

Gateway Program
San Francisco State University sign

Conditional Admission

If you meet academic requirements but need to improve your English, Conditional Admission can help you move forward. You can apply to SFSU after deadlines have passed and receive support with your application.

Conditional Admission
International students at a San Francisco Giants game, holding a foam #1 finger

TOEFL Waivers

Explore two TOEFL waiver options that meet SFSU English proficiency requirements. You may qualify without completing the highest EAP level.

TOEFL Waivers

SFSU Student Experience

Find out what international students say about their experience at SFSU in this video.

About English for Academic Preparation

  • Well-trained, enthusiastic teachers and small classes with individual attention to all students
  • A curriculum that gives you strategies to understand and use English at an American university
  • TOEFL waivers for qualified students applying to SFSU undergraduate degree programs
  • Advisors to help you apply to SFSU and assist you with immigration questions, academics and American life
  • Student activities to help you enjoy your city and American culture
  • Free course A U 110 Living in San Francisco introduces history, culture and neighborhoods with field trips

Enjoy Life in San Francisco

Our instructor and staff will take you to:

  • Explore iconic landmarks such as Pier 39 and enjoy a scenic Bay Cruise
  • Enjoy sports events like going to a SF Giants baseball game
  • Celebrate Halloween with fun costumes and mingle with students, faculty and staff
  • Participate in Culture Day and share your culture and country with others
  • Join the International Student Journey panel discussion to hear inspiring stories from Center for Global Engagement alumni about how they’ve achieved their goals through our programs

Volunteer Opportunities in San Francisco 

You can get involved in the community by: 

  • Serving meals at GLIDE Memorial Church 
  • Assisting with cleanup at Ocean Beach 

Tuition:
Fall/Spring: $6,400 (16 Weeks), $3,650 (8 Weeks)
Summer: $4,200 (10 Weeks) | $2,800 (5 Weeks)

Application Fee:
$150 starting

Gator Pass (mandatory fee):
$130/semester
Note: There is no Gator Pass in summer.

Length:
Fall/Spring: 16 or 8 Weeks 
Summer: 10 or 5 Weeks

When to Start:
Fall, Spring, Summer

Dates and Cost

SFSU

San Francisco State University is a public university located in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Here, you will find a strong focus on teaching, access and academic quality across a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. You will learn through critical thinking, collaboration and real-world experience. SFSU prepares you to succeed in a global society and to become an engaged, ethical member of your community.

Campus

The SFSU campus is located in a quiet and safe neighborhood near the Pacific Ocean.

University Life

As an English for Academic Preparation ​program student, you can:

  • Meet SFSU students as you study in classrooms throughout the SFSU campus
  • Live on campus in University dormitories
  • Use university facilities, such as the library, gym and computer labs, and enjoy all the student cafes and restaurants

You will study in one of the most welcoming and diverse cities in the world. San Francisco is known for its beauty, global culture and strong international community, so you can feel at home here.

With a population of about 830,000, the city is easy to explore. Each neighborhood offers its own character, and many areas are within walking distance or easy to reach by public transit.

San Francisco is also a center for technology and innovation. You will be close to leading companies like Google, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Dropbox and Uber, along with many others across the Bay Area.

Earn University Credit While Exploring San Francisco

Enroll in A U 110: Living in San Francisco, a one-unit course that introduces new students to the geographic, historical and environmental, socio-cultural and political context of the Bay Area, San Francisco and San Francisco State University. In addition, this course prepares students for success in their transition to living in San Francisco while preparing for life in San Francisco, building community, and learning about the campus and the surrounding area. The course is experiential and includes field trips throughout the city.

The in-person course is optional and is offered to you free of charge. You are encouraged to take it to learn more about and experience the City of San Francisco.

Elena Zheltova, International Student from Russia, EAP and Paralegal Studies Graduate

What Students Say

EAP is the best English program that I have ever attended. Seriously. Everything there was flexible, but structured. My class had six people from different countries, and everybody was very goal oriented.
Elena Zheltova
International Student from Russia, EAP and Paralegal Studies Graduate

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