Frequently Asked Questions

• Visitor Assistance: academic programs, ATM machines, the Bookstore, campus tours, food services, guest lodging, lost and found, photocopies, reporting emergencies.
• Parking and Transportation: MUNI/BART passes, parking on/near campus, bicycle parking, public transportation, ridesharing, student parking permits, transit lines to campus.
• Admissions/Graduation: admissions applications, SFSU Bulletin and class schedule, commencement (graduation), filing for graduation, student fees, transcripts, transferring units.
• Advising/Learning Assistance: academic advising, academic programs, declaring/changing majors, ELM/EPT, GE, JEPET, new student orientation, tutoring/learning assistance.
• Financial Aid: how to apply, scholarship opportunities, types of aid available.
• Student Resources/Services: athletic programs, child care, community volunteering, computer access, disability access and services, educational opportunities, health services, library use, off-campus housing, on-campus housing, personal counseling, sexual harassment/violence, student employment, student government, student organizations, university policies.

How can I get general information about SFSU's academic programs?
The Web is the best source of information about SFSU. Go to the Prospective Students Web site to get information about degrees and programs, housing, financial aid, and more. Check out individual department and program Web sites for more information.

If you visit our campus, Student Outreach Services, Student Services Building (SSB) 106, has brochures for each of the University's colleges and programs. Call (415) 338-2355 for information.

The Bulletin is on sale at the SFSU Bookstore in the Cesar Chavez Student Center and available online. Previous Bulletins are also online. The Bulletin has extensive information about SFSU programs, resources, courses, and policies. Call (415) 338-2092 for recorded information on how to obtain the Bulletin by mail. The College of Extended Learning, Administration building153, has brochures and catalogs that describe its many credit and noncredit programs. Call (415) 338-1373 for recorded information.

International visitors can call the Office of International Programs, (415) 338-1293, for information about academic programs, standards for admission, applications, costs, student visa regulations and other general information about the campus.

Can I get a campus tour?
Self-guided tour brochures may be picked up from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at Student Outreach Services, Student Services building 106. If you wish to take the tour at another time, call (415) 338-2355 and we will mail or fax a brochure to you.

Where can I find an ATM?
Washington Mutual ATMs are located inside the Cesar Chavez Student Center, on the main level. Bank of America and Wells Fargo ATMs are located outside the Student Center, on the north plaza near the Bookstore. CAL STATE 9 Credit Union ATMs are outside the Franciscan Building, between the Library and the Creative Arts building. The credit union offers services for San Francisco State employees, students, and Alumni Association members, as well as state employees and their families.

Where is the University bookstore?
The SFSU Bookstore is on the main floor of the Cesar Chavez Student Center. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:45 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., during the academic year. The Bookstore is closed on Sunday.

The Bookstore stocks a wide selection of textbooks, bestsellers, and books of all types, as well as a wide array of SFSU accessories, greetings cards, computers, software and supplies.

What food services are available on campus?
The Cesar Chavez Student Center is home to a variety of restaurants, serving Mexican, Asian, Italian, and vegetarian fare, as well as hamburgers, hot dogs, beer, wine and coffee. Eateries are open Monday through Friday, most between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. The Pub, located on the lower conference level, serves beer and wine, as well as Mediterranean food. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday. Only a few dining options are available on Saturdays; most are closed on Sunday. Call the Student Center Information Desk, (415) 338-1112, for more information.

At the west end of campus, students and visitors can dine at the City Eats Dining Center, located behind Mary Ward and Mary Park residence halls, or Cafe in the Park, located in Mary Park Hall. City Eats offers all-you-can-eat, made-to-order deli, Mexican grill, and pizza items, as well as a salad bar and vegetarian foods. City Eats is open Monday through Friday for breakfast, lunch and dinner; Saturday and Sunday for brunch and dinner. Cafe in the Park offers late-night dining and has an espresso bar.

The University Club, on the second floor of the Franciscan Building, serves three meals a day, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and breakfast and lunch on Fridays, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The University's student-run, white-tablecloth restaurant, the Vista Room, located on the top floor of Burk Hall, is open for lunch; reservations are required.

Does the University have a Lost and Found?
The SFSU Department of Public Safety operates the principal Lost and Found on campus. Call (415) 338-2306 to make an appointment with the Lost and Found coordinator. You may also try the Information Desk at the Cesar Chavez Student Center, (415) 338-1112. Most campus buildings also have Lost and Found centers.

Where can I get photocopies made?
For quick copy jobs, go to Rapid Copy, (415) 338-2120, on the main floor of the Library. Coin-operated copy machines are located at the Library and at the Cesar Chavez Student Center. Full-service printing and graphic design services are available at Campus Graphics, located on the mezzanine level of the Cesar Chavez Student Center, (415) 338-2434.

How do I report an emergency?
Report emergencies to the SFSU Department of Public Safety by dialing 911 or (415) 338-2222 on any of the many yellow courtesy telephones located throughout campus. If you are off campus, call (415) 338-2222. Red phones, identified by blue lights, are located at strategic points around campus and are specifically for use during emergencies. Campus escorts are available 24 hours a day by calling (415) 338-7200. The Department of Public Safety is located on North State Drive on the west side of campus.

Parking and Transportation

How much does it cost to attend SFSU?
As of fall 2004, fees to attend SFSU for a regular fall or spring academic semester are as follows (fees are subject to change without advance notice by the Trustees of The California State University and the campus):

• Undergraduate resident students, up to 6.0 units: $951/semester.
• Undergraduate resident students, 6.1 or more units: $1,440/semester.
• Graduate resident students, up to 6.0 units: $1,092/semester.
• Graduate resident students, 6.1 or more units: $1,683/semester.
• Credential resident students, up to 6.0 units: $1,059/semester.
• Credential resident students, 6.1 or more units: $1,626/semester.
• Nonresident tuition: In addition to regular semester fees above, nonresidents of California must pay $339 per unit.

How can I get an official transcript?
You can find information about obtaining official and unofficial transcripts here.Unofficial transcripts are also available at the SFSUView kiosks.

How do I find out what units are transferable to SFSU?
If you are transferring units from a community college, see an advisor at the institution you are attending or go to your college transfer center to determine what is transferable. Once you apply to SFSU, you will receive an Advanced Standing Evaluation (ASE) during the middle of your first semester of attendance. The ASE will tell you which courses transferred to SFSU and what specific general education and other graduation requirements you have satisfied. Using the ASSIST database, you can find out if you will receive credit for courses you have taken at a community college. New colleges are being added to the ASSIST database continuously.

Advising/Learning Assistance

How can I get an academic advisor?
You can ask a faculty member in your major to become your advisor, or you can go to the department office of your major and ask what procedures they have for meeting with an advisor. For general academic advising questions or if you are an undeclared or Liberal Studies student, go to the Advising Center, Administration building 212, (415) 338-2101. There is someone available in the One Stop Student Services Center, Student Services building to answer advising questions on a part-time basis.

What academic programs does SFSU offer?
See the University Bulletin for the list of baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate degree programs, minors, certificate programs, and credential programs offered by SFSU.

How do I declare a change of major?
Contact your desired major department. Consult with a major advisor and complete the "Change of Major" form. Have it signed by the new major department and submit it to the Registrar's Office at the One Stop Student Services Center, Student Services building.

How do I get tutoring or other learning assistance?
The Learning Assistance Center (LAC) is where students can find out about tutoring services offered by specific programs and departments on campus. Also, the LAC offers tutoring in reading, writing, and study skills for introductory coursework across the curriculum and for introductory GE mathematics and science courses (100 level and preparatory). The Center is located in the Library 438. Call (415) 338-1993 for information.

What is ELM? EPT?
The ELM (Entry Level Mathematics) exam tests for math skills equivalent to three years of college preparatory math. The EPT (English Placement Test) measures the reading and writing ability of entering students. All students who are not exempt must take the ELM and EPT when admitted to SFSU, but no later than the end of the first semester of attendance.

Information bulletins and registration materials for ELM and EPT are mailed to all students. This material may also be obtained from the Registrar's Office or the Testing Center, both located in the One Stop Student Services Center, Student Services building.

What is GE?
General Education (GE) comprises 48 units of coursework. GE helps add depth to your major studies by allowing you to develop greater understanding and appreciation of the three broad categories of liberal arts learning -- physical and biological sciences, behavioral and social sciences, and humanities and creative arts.

What is JEPET?
The JEPET (Junior English Proficiency Essay Test) is the writing assessment requirement that must be taken by all students to graduate. The JEPET should be taken before completing 80 semester units. There are preparation sessions available through the JEPET Composition Office, Humanities 209, (415) 338-2128.

What are the advising/orientation programs for new students at SFSU?
The Advising Center offers advising services and new student orientation programs. Advising Day each semester introduces prospective and incoming students to the academic opportunities available at SFSU. Students can talk with major advisors and attend various information workshops on that day, held in November for the spring semester, and in May for the fall semester. For specific dates see the Academic Calendars.

Financial Aid

How and when do I apply for financial aid?
Students should contact the Office of Student Financial Aid for information about financial assistance. Staff members assist students on the phone and at the One Stop Student Services Center, Student Services building. Call (415) 338-1581 for information.

Deadlines for applying for aid are listed on the Financial Aid Web site as well as in the University Bulletin. In general, students should file for many financial aid opportunities (federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Grant; Federal Perkins Loan; Federal College Work-Study, State University Grant, and Educational Opportunity Grant) as soon as possible after Jan. 1 for the following fall semester. Deadlines vary, so check the Bulletin, or visit the Financial Aid Office in the One Stop Student Services Center, Student Services building.

What types of aid are available?
There are three types of aid: 1) grants and scholarships; 2) loans; and 3) work-study. The Office of Student Financial Aid may award a student a combination of grants, loans, and work to meet a student's financial need.

For more information, call (415) 338-1581 or stop by the One Stop Student Services Center, Student Services building.

How can I learn about scholarship opportunities?
Check out the scholarship information at the Office of Student Financial Aid Web site. University-administered scholarships are awarded generally to continuing students based on academic achievement and financial need. A separate application is required for scholarships directly administered through the Financial Aid Office. Some academic departments on campus also have University scholarships. Students should check with the college or department office about scholarship opportunities.

The Financial Aid Office has limited information about outside scholarships. Students are encouraged to contact service organizations, foundations, and major employers and others that may offer scholarships. Reference desks in university and public libraries also provide scholarship resource materials.

What athletic programs and intramural/recreational activities does SFSU have?
The SFSU Department of Athletics has 16 Division II athletic teams, nine for women and seven for men. Women's teams are basketball, cross country, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, indoor track and field, outdoor track and field, and volleyball. For men, we offer baseball, basketball, cross-country, soccer, swimming, outdoor track and field, and wrestling.

Intramural leagues, tournaments, and special events are offered for students during the academic year. A variety of men's, women's and coed sports are offered, including basketball, volleyball, indoor soccer, swimming, bowling, ultimate Frisbee, water polo, softball, badminton, tennis and flag football. Workout facilities are available in the Gym at noon and during certain evening hours for students, faculty, and staff. For more information, visit rooms 111 or 104 in the Gym, or call the Recreation Program at (415) 338-3363.

Does SFSU offer childcare?
The Children's Center, supported in part by Associated Students, provides SFSU students, faculty, and staff with childcare for children ages six months to five years. For information, call (415) 338-2403.

How can I get involved in community volunteer efforts?
The Community Involvement Center (located between the Gym and the Student Center), provides academic credit, training, supervision, and support for students who volunteer in non-profit human service agencies of their choice, either on campus or in the SF Bay Area.

A student may receive 2 to 7 upper-division English units for the experience. Through CIC's University-Community Action Network, students' interests and availability are matched with community needs. CIC hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For information, call (415) 338-1486.

Where can I get access to a computer?
There is a 24-hour computer lab on the main floor of the Library. Many departments have their own computer labs. In all, more than 1,200 IBM, Apple and other computers are available for student use at SFSU. Dial-in modems provide access for users with their own equipment.

SFSU students can gain Internet access and e-mail accounts through the Division of Information Technology. Information Technology also offers numerous short courses and workshops each semester to teach students, faculty, and staff how to use computing systems, utilities and software. For information, click here or visit Administration building 110, (415) 338-1420.

What assistance is there for students with disabilities?
The Disability Programs and Resource Center (DPRC), located in the Student Services building 110, supports all students with disabilities, whether temporary or permanent. The DPRC seeks to promote and provide equal access to the classroom and to campus-related activities. Its services include registration assistance, note taking, and sign language interpretation. DPRC hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, except Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information, call (415) 338-2472 (voice/TTY). For the office of the SFSU coordinator of Disability Programs, call (415) 335-3728 (voice only).

What is EOP?
The EOP, or Educational Opportunity Program, provides educational support services for undergraduate students from economically and educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. EOP offers advising and tutorial services to assist EOP students in completing their degree requirements. The office is located in the Student Services building 201. For information, call (415) 338-1646 or (415) 338-1085.

What services does the Student Health Center offer?
The Student Health Service, supported by student fees, provides a variety of confidential, outpatient services to students at the Student Health Center, located near the center of campus. In addition to basic services, SHS offers laboratory services, X-rays, health education, women's services, immunizations, nutritional counseling, preventive medicine, and HIV/AIDS screening. For information, call the Student Health Center, (415) 338-1251.

Hours during the regular semester are: 8:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; and 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Wednesday. The health center is closed on Saturday and Sunday.

What resources does the Library have?
The J. Paul Leonard Library collections number approximately 4 million items, including books, periodicals, electronic databases, government publications, microforms, audio-visual media, computer software, and maps. Information about many of these materials is accessible through the Library's on-line catalog, InvestiGator, available at the Library's Web site, through Telnet, and by consulting the Library's faculty and staff. Reference and information services are located on the first floor.

Main library hours during the regular school year are: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday. Call (415) 338-1841 for hours of the Reserve Book Room, Rapid Copy Center, Media Access Center, Government Publications, Special Collections/de Bellis Collection, and Friends of the Library Booksale Room. For further information, call the Information Desk at (415) 338-1854 during business hours, or the Reference Desk at (415) 338-1391 for recorded information about library services.

What campus housing does SFSU offer?
SFSU has two traditional residence facilities, Mary Park and Mary Ward halls, operated by SFSU Housing and Residential Services. Together, they house more than 800 lower-division students during the academic year. Both coed and all-female floor assignments are available. University housing provides an excellent orientation to the University experience and is strongly recommended. For information, call Housing and Residential Services, (415) 338-1067.

Housing for upper division and graduate students is offered through the Village at Centennial Square, located near the center of campus. The Village's two- and three-bedroom apartments are fully furnished, with on-site laundry facilities. Contact the Village at (415) 335-8000.

Where can I find out about off-campus housing?
Information about off-campus housing opportunities is available through SFSU Housing and Residential Services. This site includes rental listings, roommate services, and apartment complexes near SFSU.

Does the University offer psychological counseling?
The Counseling and Psychological Services Center provides psychological counseling to students and consultation services to the rest of the University community. Services to students include personal and group counseling and psychotherapy, marital and couples counseling, consultation and outreach services, and referral services. Counseling services are free of charge to all currently enrolled students. The center is located in the Student Services building 208. For information and appointments, call (415) 338-2208.

How do I report instances of sexual harassment or sexual violence?
The S.A.F.E. Place is a resource center that provides information, crisis counseling and referrals for those affected by sexual violence and sexual harassment. It is located in the Student Services building 205. For information, call (415) 338-2819. You can also call the University Department of Public Safety, (415) 338-2222, to report instances of sexual assault/violence.

How can I find a job on or off campus?
The Career Center helps current students and SFSU alumni seeking part- and full-time employment, internships, cooperative education experiences, and career planning assistance. The center is located in the Student Services building 206. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call (415) 338-1761 for information.

Can I get involved in student government?
The Associated Students, Inc. is SFSU's student body government. It is a nonprofit, student-run corporation, funded by the student activity fee all students pay each semester. That fee also makes each student an Associated Students member, eligible to vote in the annual elections for AS leadership. AS provides services and programs designed to enrich campus life and helps to support many campus organizations. AS is located in the Cesar Chavez Student Center 106, Mezzanine Level, and can be reached at (415) 338-2321.

What student organizations are there?
SFSU offers some 200 clubs and organizations for students. Call (415) 338-2171 or stop by the Student Programs/Leadership Development office, Student Services building 105. Organizations range from the Chess Club to the Black Student Psychology Association; from the Ballroom Dance Club to the Health Rights Student Task Force; from the Marketing Club to the Society of Professional Journalists.

How can I find out about official University policies?
Official SFSU policies, which apply to students as well as other members of the SFSU community, are outlined in the SFSU Bulletin.

1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132    415/338-1111
Last modified Dec. 22, 2003, by the Office of Public Affairs