Open University
Program Type
- Single Course
Format
- Hybrid
- In Person
- Online
Area of Study
Cost
$449 per unit
Average Completion Time
One term
When to Start
Fall, Spring, Summer
About this program
Through Open University at SFSU, you can take University classes without formally being admitted. Whether you're looking to explore a new subject, earn transferable credit or finish your degree, Open University gives you the flexibility to enroll in available courses each fall, spring or summer. You may apply up to 24 undergraduate or six graduate units earned through Open University toward a degree at SFSU.
Explore Classes and Register
Explore available SFSU classes and find the courses that match your goals. When you are ready, follow the step-by-step registration process to enroll and start taking classes through Open University.
Classes and Registration
Is Open U Right for You?
Open University is a flexible option if you want to take upper-division courses before transferring from community college, raise your GPA before returning to SFSU or another university, earn college credit as a high school student after your junior year, build new skills for a career change or explore a subject that interests you. If you are already admitted to SFSU, you are not eligible to enroll through Open University.
About Open University
Open University is offered in fall, spring and summer.
For winter classes, see Winter Session.
Spring 2027
- Registration opens: Jan. 11
- First day of instruction: Jan. 25
- Last day to add: Feb. 15
- Last day to drop with full refund (less $20 processing fee): Feb. 15
- Last day of instruction: May 14
Fall 2026
- Registration opens: Aug. 10
- First day of instruction: Aug. 24
- Last day to add: Sept. 14
- Last day to drop with full refund (less $20 processing fee): Sept. 14
- Last day of instruction: Dec. 18
Summer 2026
- Registration opens: May 18
- First day of instruction: R1: June 1 | R2: June 15 | R3: July 6 | R4: June 1
- Last day to add: R1: June 12 | R2: June 26 | R3: July 17 | R4: June 12
- Last day to drop with full refund (less $20 processing fee): R1: June 12 | R2: June 26 | R3: July 17 | R4: June 12
- Last day of instruction: R1: July 2 | R2: Aug. 7 | R3: Aug. 7 | R4: Aug. 7
Cost
$449 per unit
Course Length
- Fall and spring: One semester (4 months)
- Summer: One session (1 to 2 months)
Registration Start Dates
- Fall: Early August
- Spring: Mid-January
- Summer: Mid-May
Payment Plan
This program gives you an option to split the cost for one semester into smaller payments.
SFSU does not provide I-20 forms for Open University. If you already have a valid visa or an I-20 from another school, you may enroll in classes through Open University. It’s your responsibility to stay in compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) rules.
Contact
Registration
Phone Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Afitap Boz
Program Lead
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