A Foundation of Learning and Service
The University of San Francisco (USF) is a private Jesuit university that has established a reputation for its social responsibility, academic distinction, and international emphasis. Situated in the center of San Francisco, the university is recognized for its diverse student body and curriculum focusing on ethics, critical thinking, and service to others. The campus provides students with access to internships and exposure to the city’s vibrant culture, technology, and business sectors.
“Founded in 1855 as St. Ignatius Academy, the University of San Francisco is a distinguished Jesuit university committed to educating minds and hearts to create a more humane and just world.”
The Transfer Student’s Bridge
USF is an open campus to transfer students from community colleges, and a substantial majority of its students transfer from two-year institutions. The university makes the transition smoother for students to transfer with its Transfer Admission Agreements (TAA) with certain of its community college partners. These agreements guarantee students a guaranteed admission to the university if they complete the specified courses and GPA requirements. With this streamlined process, students save time and money and are also better prepared for their major. The university also boasts a robust support network for transfer students so that they are equipped to succeed academically as well as socially.
The Enduring Athletic Spirit of the Dons at the University of San Francisco
The University of San Francisco’s athletic teams are the Dons, and they participate in NCAA Division I as a member of the West Coast Conference (WCC). The university boasts a proud heritage of athletics, such as men’s basketball, in which the Dons have achieved national fame. The athletics program is committed to meeting the needs of student-athletes in their intellectual and sports pursuits, furthering a culture of well-rounded excellence. The Dons spirit is a vital element of university identity.
Your Guide to Admission
Getting accepted into the University of San Francisco is a rigorous process that utilizes a holistic review to evaluate each applicant. Admissions committee members examine highly thoroughly in a thoughtful way your academic history, personal essays, extracurricular pursuits, and letters of recommendations. USF seeks out students who are curious, compassionate, and willing to engage with the world. Your personal essay is also a key component of your application, in that it gives you an opportunity to recount your own experiences, why you wish to come, and how you would contribute back to the USF community. Good essays that resonate with social justice and service can make your application that much stronger.
Financial Aid and Grants
USF is committed to making a quality private education accessible and affordable. The university’s financial aid program provides a variety of grants and scholarships that students do not need to repay. They are an essential resource for students who need aid. Every student who is eligible may receive the Federal Pell Grant, which is a grant based on demonstrated need and often the foundation for many financial aid award packages. The university also offers a significant amount of institutional grants and scholarships, which are awarded on the basis of both merit and need, to reduce the overall cost of attendance.
Student Loan Options
Although scholarships and grants are the first options for most students, loans can be used as additional funding to cover education and living expenses. The most common and highly recommended option is a federal student loan. These loans are funded by the government and offer benefits like lower, fixed rates of interest and more manageable schedules for repayment. Private student loans are provided by banks and other lending establishments. They are available but generally have higher, variable rates of interest and fewer protections for the borrower. The USF financial aid office is available to help students understand their financing options and good borrowing habits.
Discover the Urban Campus of the University of San Francisco
University of San Francisco, 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94117
Exploring the Official Online Presence of the University of San Francisco
University of San Francisco Official Website: usfca.edu
