University of California San Francisco Overview

The University of California San Francisco (UCSF) is a premier graduate-level health sciences university focused exclusively on health and biomedical sciences. Founded in 1864, UCSF is renowned for its cutting-edge research, advanced clinical care, and exceptional health professional education. It is located in San Francisco and is dedicated to improving health worldwide.

University of California San Francisco Offered Programs

  • Doctor of Medicine (MD)
  • Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
  • Master of Public Health (MPH)
  • Master of Science (MS) in various biomedical fields
  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in biomedical sciences
  • Master of Health Administration (MHA)
  • Postdoctoral Fellowships

University of California San Francisco Tuition Fees

ProgramDomestic Students (USD/year)International Students (USD/year)
MD Program~45,000~58,000
PharmD Program~38,000~38,000
Graduate Programs (MS/PhD/MPH)~20,000 – 30,000~25,000 – 35,000

University of California San Francisco Required Documents and Admission Requirements

  • Completed application through relevant portals (AMCAS for MD, PharmCAS for PharmD, SOPHAS for MPH, etc.)
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or statement of purpose
  • Relevant standardized test scores (MCAT for MD, PCAT for PharmD, GRE for some graduate programs)
  • Resume or CV
  • Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS for international applicants)
  • Application fee payment

University of California San Francisco Deadlines

Deadline TypeDate
MD Program Application DeadlineOctober (year before enrollment)
PharmD Application DeadlineDecember – January
Graduate Program DeadlinesVaries by program (mostly Dec–Feb)
Fall Quarter BeginsLate September

University of California San Francisco Scholarships Offerings

  • Need-based financial aid
  • Merit-based scholarships for select programs
  • Research and teaching assistantships
  • External fellowship opportunities
  • Diversity scholarships and grants

University of California San Francisco Rankings

Ranking TypePosition
National (USA)Top 3 Medical Schools
World RankingTop 20 Health Sciences Institutions

University of California San Francisco Acceptance Rate

UCSF has a highly selective admission process with acceptance rates typically below 5% for MD programs. Other graduate programs have acceptance rates ranging between 10% and 30% depending on the discipline.

University of California San Francisco Student Campus Life

UCSF’s campus life centers on professional education and research with limited undergraduate presence. Students engage in extensive clinical training and research activities. Housing options include university-affiliated housing and nearby apartments in San Francisco. The campus offers student services, wellness programs, and various professional student organizations.

University of California San Francisco Cost of Living

San Francisco is known for its high cost of living, especially in housing. Students should budget accordingly for rent, transportation, and daily expenses. UCSF provides resources to help students find affordable housing and manage expenses.

Expense TypeEstimated Monthly Cost (USD)
On-campus Housing1,800 – 2,500
Off-campus Housing2,000 – 3,000
Food400 – 600
Transportation100 – 150
Personal Expenses250 – 400

University of California San Francisco Contact Informations

Website: ucsf.edu
Phone Number: +1 415-476-9000
Email Address: admissions@ucsf.edu
Address: 500 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States

University of California San Francisco Online Application

Applicants apply through specific application services depending on the program (AMCAS for MD, PharmCAS for PharmD, SOPHAS for public health, etc.). The process requires submitting transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Early application is recommended due to the competitive nature of admissions.