Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does the scholarship provide?
- A merit scholarship in the amount of in-state fees, renewable for up to eight semesters.
- $500.00 per year for books and other course materials.
- $4000.00 for housing (freshman year only)
- Priority registration.
- Guaranteed placement in on-campus housing. (subject to housing regulations).
- Personal attention and help from the faculty director.
What other benefits are included in the scholars program?
- A special summer orientation at no charge.LISTITEM]
- An opening banquet for new Scholars and their families.
- A first semester one-day retreat.
- Three classes taken together by entering scholars in the first semester.
- A program of co-curricular, extracurricular, cultural, and social events.
- A fourth year celebration and certificate of program completion.
How do I know whether I qualify to become a Presidential Scholar?
Admission to the program is competitive, based on merit. We consider the complete application package. As a general guide, to be considered for admission to the program you must:
- be a California resident;
- apply to SFSU as a first time freshman for the coming fall semester;
- have a high school grade point average of at least 3.80; and
- have a combined SAT score of at least 1150 (Reading and Math).
What obligations do I have if I become a Presidential Scholar?
- You must complete at least 24 units per year, with at least 21 units graded rather than credit/no credit.
- You must achieve and maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.25.
- You must attend required events and at least 2 optional events per semester.
What are some of the events in which I can expect to participate?
See our Activities and Events page for a taste of the enrichment program.
What are some of the Presidential Scholars like?
They are diverse in every way!
Will I need extra money to pay for the Scholars events?
No, we will cover all of the costs associated with being in the program.
How will the Presidential Scholarship affect my financial aid status?
The Presidential Scholarship is based on merit and is awarded in conjunction with admission to the Presidential Scholars Program. It is intended to pay for educational expenses. It is given in an amount equivalent to the amount of California resident fees, but it is intended to augment rather than replace other sources of those fees (e.g., state grants) for which the Presidential Scholars may
qualify. For more information on financial aid at SFSU, please visit the
SFSU Financial Aid website 
Will the Presidential Scholars program dominate all of my time?
No, the program is designed to support you without smothering you. It is more highly structured during the first semester while you're focused on the transition from high school to college. After that, you'll be able to branch out in different directions while maintaining regular participation in the Scholars Program.
How do I apply to become a Presidential Scholar?
The application process takes place between February and May, before you will enter as a first-time freshman that fall. If you meet the minimum criteria above and have been posted in our database of admitted students by mid-February, you will receive an invitation to apply and all of the application materials. Otherwise you can contact us for an application, or simply download the applcation from this website
How can I find out more about San Francisco State University?
You can find out more about San Francisco State University by visiting the
SFSU homepage
For information on housing, please visit the
University housing homepage .