San José State University Overview: Rankings, Programs, Tuition & Admissions

San José State University (SJSU), founded in 1857 and located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is the oldest public university in the Western U.S. and the founding campus of the California State University system. Renowned for its strong programs in engineering, business, and computer science, SJSU enrolls over 35,000 students and boasts a diverse student body, extensive campus facilities, and over 130 academic programs.

Its alumni include notable figures in tech, arts, sports, and public service. With affordable tuition relative to U.S. standards, ample student support services, and close industry ties, SJSU is a key launchpad for careers in the global tech-driven economy.

San José State University: A Comprehensive Overview

San José State University (SJSU), located in the heart of Silicon Valley in San Jose, California, stands as the oldest public institution of higher education in the Western United States and the founding campus of the vast California State University (CSU) system.

With a rich history dating back to 1857, SJSU has evolved into a comprehensive university renowned for its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and significant contributions to the tech industry.

History and Legacy

SJSU’s roots trace back to the Minns’ Evening Normal School in San Francisco, established in 1857 to train teachers. In 1862, it became the California State Normal School, and in 1871, it moved to its current location in San Jose. A significant historical note is that the southern branch campus, opened in Los Angeles in 1882, eventually became the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Throughout its history, SJSU has been a pioneer in various fields. In 1930, its Justice Studies Department launched the nation’s first two-year police science degree program. The university gained its current name, San José State University, in 1972 after being granted university status.

Campus and Facilities

SJSU’s main campus spans 88 acres in downtown San Jose, featuring over 50 major buildings, including 23 academic buildings and 8 residence halls. The South Campus primarily houses athletic programs, including the Spartan Athletics Center.

The university offers a variety of on-campus housing options, from traditional residence halls to apartments, with annual costs typically ranging from $5,705 to $12,239 (approximately INR 4.75 L – 10 L) depending on the accommodation type. Students residing in traditional and suite-style residence halls are required to have meal plans.

Beyond academics and housing, SJSU boasts over 350 student organizations, categorized by academic interest, club sports, cultural/religious affiliations, fraternities/sororities, and special interests. The Career Center plays a vital role in connecting students with employers and assisting with job searches and career exploration. The campus also has robust facilities development and operations, including shops for electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and a lock shop, ensuring the maintenance and safety of campus infrastructure.

Academics and Rankings

San José State University offers a wide array of academic programs, with over 130 bachelor’s and master’s degrees and 110 concentrations. The university is particularly recognized for its programs in Engineering, Computer Science, and Business, consistently producing graduates highly sought after by Silicon Valley companies.

Key Rankings:

• QS World University Rankings 2026: #1181-1200
• U.S. News & World Report – Best Regional Universities West 2025: #4
• U.S. News & World Report – Global Universities 2024: #1624
• Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022: #1001-1200

Subject-Specific Rankings (highlights):

• UG Business (U.S. News 2025): #127 (showing a significant climb)
• Psychology (THE 2022): #301-400
• Engineering (THE 2022): #801-1000
• Computer Science (THE 2022): #601-800
• Graduate Nursing (U.S. News 2024): #156

Admissions and Enrollment

In 2024, San José State University enrolled over 35,000 students, with more than 27,000 undergraduates and over 8,000 graduate students. The acceptance rate is unofficially around 80%.

Admission Requirements (General for International Applicants):

Undergraduate: High school completion with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4-point scale, official secondary school transcripts, three years of preparatory mathematics with a C grade or better, and English language proficiency scores (IELTS: 6.0-6.5, TOEFL iBT: 61-80, PTE: 44-53, Duolingo: 95+). SAT or ACT scores may be required.

Graduate: A 4-year bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution with a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 3-point scale (or higher for specific programs), good academic standing, English language proficiency scores (IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL iBT: 80+, PTE: 53+), Statement of Purpose, and often Letters of Recommendation. GRE/GMAT may be required for certain programs.

Application Deadlines for International Students (subject to change, typically):

Fall Intake: Application period October 1 – April 1 (UG), May 1 (MBA), April 1 (other PG programs)

Spring Intake: Application period August 1 – September 30

Tuition and Fees (2024-2025 estimates)

Tuition fees for international students at San José State University are generally more affordable than the national average for out-of-state tuition in the U.S.

• Undergraduate Annual Tuition: Approximately $17,000 – $18,460 (INR 17 L – 18.46 L)
• Graduate Annual Tuition: Approximately $6,140 – $27,260 (INR 6.14 L – 27.26 L)
• Non-Resident Tuition Fee: An additional $396 per unit.
• Health Insurance: Approximately $2,250 annually (INR 1.54 L – 1.6 L).
• Estimated Annual Living Expenses (on-campus or off-campus): $25,000 – $27,000.
• Overall Annual Expenses (including tuition, living, insurance, etc.): Typically $46,000 – $48,000.

Students should also budget for transportation (approximately INR 92.2K – 1.05 L annually) and other personal costs. Financial aid opportunities, on-campus jobs, and installment payment plans are available to help students manage expenses.

Notable Alumni

San José State University boasts an impressive list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields:

• Arts and Entertainment: Stevie Nicks (musician), Amy Tan (novelist), Coby Bell (actor), Dick and Tom Smothers (comedians), Michael Whelan (artist).
• Business and Technology: Gordon Moore (co-founder of Intel), Jan Koum (co-founder of WhatsApp), Ray Dolby (founder of Dolby Laboratories), Omid Kordestani (former executive at Google and Twitter), Brian Krzanich (former CEO of Intel), Jeremy King (SVP of Engineering at Pinterest), Erica Lockheimer (VP of Engineering at LinkedIn Talent Solutions).
• Science and Research: Dian Fossey (gorilla researcher and conservationist), Robert M. Haberle (planetary scientist at NASA Ames).
• Sports: Tommie Smith and John Carlos (Olympic medalists in track and field), Bill Walsh (NFL coach), Jeff Garcia (NFL player), Joey Chestnut (competitive eater).
• Politics and Public Service: Ben Nighthorse Campbell (former U.S. Senator), Lou Henry Hoover (former First Lady of the United States), Mike Honda (former U.S. Representative).

San José State University continues to be a vital institution, preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving global landscape, particularly within the dynamic environment of Silicon Valley.

FAQs about San José State University

What is San José State University known for?
San José State University is renowned for its strong academic programs in engineering, computer science, and business, as well as its close ties to Silicon Valley industries.

Where is San José State University located?
It is located in downtown San Jose, California, right in the heart of Silicon Valley.

When was San José State University founded?
The university was established in 1857, making it the oldest public institution of higher education on the West Coast.

Is San José State University part of the California State University system?
Yes, SJSU is the founding campus of the California State University (CSU) system.

How many students attend San José State University?
As of 2024, SJSU enrolls over 35,000 students, including more than 27,000 undergraduates and over 8,000 graduate students.

What are the top programs at San José State University?
The top programs include engineering, computer science, business, justice studies, and psychology.

What is the acceptance rate at SJSU?
The unofficial acceptance rate is around 80%.

What is the QS World University Ranking of SJSU in 2026?
SJSU is ranked between #1181–1200 in the QS World University Rankings 2026.

What are the U.S. News & World Report rankings for SJSU?
SJSU ranks #4 among Regional Universities West (2025) and #1624 among Global Universities (2024).

What is the annual tuition for international undergraduate students?
International undergraduate tuition ranges from approximately $17,000 to $18,460 per year.

What is the annual tuition for international graduate students?
Graduate tuition ranges from about $6,140 to $27,260 per year, depending on the program.

What are the estimated annual living expenses for students?
Living expenses range from $25,000 to $27,000 per year.

What is the total estimated cost of attendance for international students?
The total cost, including tuition, living expenses, insurance, and fees, is approximately $46,000 to $48,000 per year.

Does SJSU offer on-campus housing?
Yes, SJSU offers a range of on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls and apartments.

Is a meal plan required for on-campus residents?
Yes, students living in traditional and suite-style residence halls are required to purchase a meal plan.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for undergraduate applicants?
Accepted scores include IELTS 6.0–6.5, TOEFL iBT 61–80, PTE 44–53, or Duolingo 95+.

What are the English language requirements for graduate applicants?
Graduate applicants typically need IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 80+, or PTE 53+ scores.

Are GRE or GMAT scores required for admission?
GRE or GMAT scores may be required depending on the specific graduate program.

What are the undergraduate admission requirements for international students?
Applicants must have completed high school with a minimum GPA of 3.0, provide transcripts, complete three years of math with at least a C grade, and submit English proficiency scores.

What are the graduate admission requirements for international students?
Applicants must hold a 4-year bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.5 GPA, provide English test scores, a Statement of Purpose, and often Letters of Recommendation. Some programs require GRE/GMAT.

When are the application deadlines for international students?
For fall intake: Oct 1 – Apr 1 (UG) or May 1 (MBA); spring intake: Aug 1 – Sep 30.

Are scholarships or financial aid available for international students?
While limited, international students can explore scholarships, on-campus employment, and installment payment plans.

What career support services does SJSU offer?
The Career Center helps students with job searches, internships, resume building, interview prep, and networking opportunities.

Does SJSU have strong ties with Silicon Valley companies?
Yes, SJSU is deeply integrated with the Silicon Valley ecosystem and is a major talent pipeline for tech companies like Apple, Google, and Cisco.

Who are some notable alumni of San José State University?
Famous alumni include Jan Koum (WhatsApp), Gordon Moore (Intel), Stevie Nicks (Fleetwood Mac), Amy Tan (author), and Tommie Smith (Olympic athlete).

Is San José State University safe?
Yes, the campus has dedicated facilities, a police department, and maintenance teams ensuring safety and infrastructure upkeep.

How large is the SJSU campus?
The main campus spans 88 acres in downtown San Jose, with additional facilities at the South Campus for athletics.

How many student organizations are there at SJSU?
There are over 350 student organizations covering academic, cultural, religious, recreational, and professional interests.

Does SJSU offer health insurance for international students?
Yes, health insurance is mandatory for international students and costs approximately $2,250 per year.

Can international students work on campus?
Yes, international students with valid F-1 visas are eligible for on-campus employment subject to visa restrictions.