Bachelor of Arts [B.A] (International Relations)
Field of Study:
$7,288 /Yr
San Francisco State University Bachelor of Arts in International Relations is a four-year undergraduate degree offered in full-time, in-person mode. Location: San Francisco, California, United States. International student eligibility requires TOEFL iBT 79 minimum or equivalent. Total program cost: US$131,056 (INR 1.25 Crore). Available intakes: Fall and Spring annually. The program prepares graduates for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, and policy analysis across government, NGOs, and private sectors.
The International Relations BA is distinctive for its interdisciplinary curriculum combining political science, economics, history, and cultural studies to examine global systems in flux. SFSU is the only California State University with an affiliate membership in the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA), signaling peer recognition among the world’s leading IR programs. The program emphasizes analytical writing, research rigor, and presentation skills grounded in both theory and applied practice. Ideal applicants are curious about global affairs, comfortable with empirical research methods, and seeking career pathways in international diplomacy or policy.
- Strong faculty mentorship: professors actively support student learning in research and applied projects.
- Conference participation: students present at regional and national IR conferences during their degree.
- APSIA affiliation: exclusive networking and placement pathways via one of the world’s premier IR networks.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are Open. International student deadline: 15 June 2026.
The application deadline is tomorrow for Fall 2026 entry. Indian applicants should prioritize WES credential evaluation for immediate processing and consult the admissions office on expedited review timelines.
Also Check: San Francisco State University International Relations Admission
San Francisco State University Bachelor of Arts International Relations Fees and Living Costs 2026
International students pay significantly higher tuition than domestic students at SFSU. The four-year cost includes tuition, mandatory health insurance, and books. Scholarships for international applicants are limited; most aid comes from on-campus employment or departmental bursaries. Below is the cost breakdown for one academic year.
| Cost Component | USD per Year | INR per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (International) | US$29,064 | INR 2,769,000 |
| Books and Materials | US$1,200 | INR 114,252 |
| Health Insurance | US$2,500 | INR 238,025 |
| Annual Total | US$32,764 | INR 3,121,277 |
| 4-Year Total | US$131,056 | INR 1.25 Crore |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.27 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- Tuition covers instruction, library access, and student services at a public research university.
- Books include textbooks, course materials, and academic software required for IR coursework.
- Health insurance is mandatory for all international students and includes basic medical, emergency, and preventive care.
- This total does not include living expenses, which are detailed in the section below.
Cost of Living in San Francisco for International Relations Students
San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Most SFSU students live off-campus in shared apartments near the Daly City or Sunset District neighborhoods to reduce rent. The table below shows realistic monthly and annual living costs for a student budget.
| Living Expense Category | Monthly USD | Annual USD | Annual INR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (Shared 2-Bed Apt) | US$1,200 | US$14,400 | INR 1,371,888 |
| Groceries and Food | US$350 | US$4,200 | INR 400,434 |
| Transportation (BART Pass) | US$100 | US$1,200 | INR 114,252 |
| Utilities and Internet | US$120 | US$1,440 | INR 137,189 |
| Personal Care and Misc | US$150 | US$1,800 | INR 171,486 |
| Annual Living Total | US$1,920 | US$23,040 | INR 2,195,249 |
Cost Reality: Total four-year cost including tuition and living expenses is approximately US$154,096 (INR 1.47 Crore). Work-study on-campus at US$15/hour for up to 20 hours weekly can offset INR 11.5 Lakhs annually. Plan for initial savings before arrival.
Read More: Cost of Living Across USA Study Abroad Cities
San Francisco State University Bachelor of Arts International Relations Admission 2026
SFSU admits international applicants to the BA International Relations program through a straightforward competitive process. Two intake windows exist each year. Academic preparation emphasizes analytical writing and quantitative reasoning. English language proficiency is assessed via standardized tests with specific minimums per test type.
| Intake | Application Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | 15 June 2026 | Open |
| Spring 2027 | 15 November 2026 | Open |
San Francisco State University is ranked 80th among United States public universities by US News 2026. The university’s global rank is 1401 by QS 2026.
Academic Eligibility
SFSU requires a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA from your high school or previous tertiary study. The SAT range for admitted students is 1050 to 1220; ACT range is 21 to 26. Applicants below these ranges are not automatically rejected but face increased scrutiny. Strong essays and demonstrated interest in IR can offset borderline scores.
| Academic Requirement | Minimum / Expected Range |
|---|---|
| High School GPA | 3.0 or equivalent |
| SAT Score | 1050 to 1220 |
| ACT Score | 21 to 26 |
| Application Fee | US$55 (INR 5,240) |
English Language Proficiency (ELP)
SFSU requires proof of English proficiency if your schooling was not conducted entirely in English. Acceptable tests and minimum scores are below. Most Indian applicants choose TOEFL iBT or IELTS due to widespread availability and familiarity.
| Test Name | Overall Minimum | Component Minimums |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 79 | Reading 19, Writing 18, Listening 18, Speaking 18 |
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5 | All bands 6.0 minimum |
| PTE Academic | 59 | All communicative skills 59 minimum |
| Duolingo English Test | 105 | No component minimums |
- TOEFL iBT at 79 is achievable for Indian students with 2-3 months of focused preparation.
- IELTS 6.5 is slightly easier for non-native speakers than TOEFL 79, though test content varies by individual strength.
- Component scores matter: writing and speaking are often barriers for Indian applicants; plan extra practice time.
- Duolingo at 105 is the fastest pathway but is least recognized globally; use as a backup if TOEFL scores are not ready.
Tip for Indian Students: SFSU evaluates the entire application holistically; a 3.0 GPA combined with clear study goals can offset a borderline TOEFL score of 77 or 78 if accompanied by a strong application essay.
Check Out: USA Study Abroad Hub for More Universities
San Francisco State University Bachelor of Arts International Relations Application 2026
The SFSU application process is straightforward and uses the Common Application platform. International students follow the same application pathway as domestic applicants. Submission is online; paper applications are not accepted. Plan for a 2-3 week turnaround on admissions decisions after the deadline.
| Application Step | Details | Status (as of 14 June 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 Intake Deadline | 15 June 2026 | Open |
| Spring 2027 Intake Deadline | 15 November 2026 | Open |
| Decision Notification | Within 3 weeks of deadline | Expected by early July 2026 |
- Common App submission includes personal essay, transcripts, test scores, and one recommendation letter.
- WES or NACES credential evaluation is required for Indian high school or university transcripts before submission.
- International credential evaluation adds 1-2 weeks to processing; plan ahead of the 15 June deadline.
- Proof of financial support (bank statements showing US$131,000+ for one year) must accompany your I-20 request after admission.
Application Tip: The Fall 2026 deadline is 15 June 2026. If you miss this, Spring 2027 opens 15 November 2026. Indian applicants should prioritize WES evaluation immediately to meet the earlier deadline.
Read More: USA Student Visa Process and Requirements
San Francisco State University Bachelor of Arts International Relations Scholarships 2026
SFSU does not offer merit-based scholarships to international undergraduate students. Financial aid for international students is extremely limited. However, several cost-offset opportunities exist, primarily through on-campus work and departmental bursaries. Plan your budget around full cost of attendance unless you have external funding from Indian sponsors or family resources.
The most realistic pathway for Indian students is on-campus employment. SFSU allows international students on F-1 visas to work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic term. The hourly rate is US$15, yielding an annual income of approximately US$15,600 (INR 1.49 Lakhs) for a part-time student role.
| Scholarship / Aid Type | Amount USD | Amount INR | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Merit Aid | Not available | N/A | N/A |
| Departmental Scholarship (IR Dept) | US$1,000 to US$5,000 | INR 95,270 to INR 476,350 | Demonstrated financial need, strong GPA |
| On-Campus Work (per year, 20 hrs/week) | US$15,600 | INR 1,488,192 | F-1 visa holder, part-time student |
| Annual Cost After On-Campus Work | US$17,164 | INR 1,633,085 | Tuition + living minus work income |
- Departmental scholarships are merit-based and highly competitive; assume none when budgeting.
- On-campus work roles include library assistant, residence hall advisor, and departmental administrative support.
- International students cannot exceed 20 hours/week during academic terms but may work full-time during semester breaks.
- Post-graduation work permit (OPT) allows full-time employment for 12 months, extending earning potential after graduation.
Scholarship Reality: Most Indian families fund the BA International Relations degree through savings or loans. Budget for the full US$131,056 cost; treat on-campus work income as a bonus offset, not a guaranteed reduction.
Also Check: Scholarships for International Students in USA
San Francisco State University Bachelor of Arts International Relations Salary and Placements 2026
SFSU IR graduates enter diverse career pathways including government diplomacy, international NGOs, policy analysis, and private consulting. Entry-level salaries vary by sector. Graduates in technology-adjacent policy roles (cybersecurity policy, tech regulation) command higher salaries than those in non-profit development work. Below are indicative gross salary figures for common IR career paths.
| Career Path | Entry-Level Salary Range USD | Entry-Level Salary Range INR |
|---|---|---|
| Policy Analyst (Government) | US$45,000 to US$55,000 | INR 42.86 Lakhs to INR 52.40 Lakhs |
| International Relations Specialist | US$48,000 to US$62,000 | INR 45.73 Lakhs to INR 59.07 Lakhs |
| Development Officer (NGO) | US$35,000 to US$45,000 | INR 33.34 Lakhs to INR 42.86 Lakhs |
| Tech Policy Analyst (Private Sector) | US$60,000 to US$75,000 | INR 57.16 Lakhs to INR 71.45 Lakhs |
| University Employment Rate (Overall) | 95% | |
Source: SFSU Career Services and Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook 2025-2026
SFSU IR graduates benefit from the university’s APSIA affiliation, which opens networking pathways at the world’s leading IR graduate programs and international organizations. Many undergraduates transition directly to master’s programs at peer institutions before entering senior roles.
Take-home income varies due to federal taxes (10-22% depending on state and income level), state income tax in California (9.3%), and Social Security contributions (6.2%). Use a US tax calculator to estimate net income for your selected salary range. Most IR professionals report that San Francisco’s cost of living consumes 40-60% of gross salary; plan accordingly during early career years.
ROI Reality: A US$55,000 entry salary yields roughly US$39,000 to US$42,000 annual take-home in California, with living costs of US$23,000 annually. This leaves modest savings. Career growth to US$75,000+ within 3-5 years is typical for IR specialists entering government or tech policy.
Read More: Post-Study Work Visa and Career Pathways in USA
United States Visa Pathway for International Relations Students 2026
International students at SFSU study on the F-1 student visa. This visa allows full-time study, on-campus work (20 hours/week during term), and off-campus internships with permission. Duration is for the length of your program plus a 60-day grace period for departure or status changes. Upon graduation, you are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which extends your US stay and work authorization for up to 12 months.
- F-1 visa allows 20 hours/week on-campus work and full-time work during semester breaks.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) grants 12 months of work authorization after graduation for any employer.
- Spouse and dependent visas (F-2) are available; dependents may study full-time on an F-2 status in the USA.
- Health insurance is mandatory; SFSU provides group coverage as part of your fees.
Visa Reality: The F-1 visa is straightforward to obtain from a US Consulate in India. Processing takes 2-4 weeks. Post-graduation OPT work permits allow you to gain US labor market experience, strengthening applications to subsequent skilled-worker visas (H-1B) or permanent residency pathways.
Check Out: Complete USA Student Visa Guide and Consulate Details
Bachelor of Arts International Relations FAQs
Ques. What is the job placement rate for SFSU International Relations graduates?
Ans. SFSU reports a 95% employment rate across all undergraduate programs. IR graduates specifically pursue roles in diplomacy, international organizations, NGO policy, and government agencies. Placement rates are strong due to APSIA affiliation networking and San Francisco’s proximity to international development organizations.
Ques. Can I work while studying on an F-1 visa?
Ans. Yes. F-1 students can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic term. On-campus wages are typically US$15 per hour. During semester breaks and after graduation via OPT, you may work full-time for any employer in the USA without hour restrictions.
Ques. Do I need to live on-campus at SFSU?
Ans. No. SFSU has limited on-campus housing and most students live off-campus. Shared apartments in neighborhoods like Sunset District and Daly City cost US$1,200 to US$1,500 per month for a bedroom. Most IR students prefer off-campus living for independence and proximity to the city.
Ques. What makes the International Relations programme at SFSU distinctive compared to other US universities?
Ans. SFSU is the only California State University affiliate member of APSIA, the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs. This membership provides unique access to a global network of 170+ peer institutions, international internship programs, and alumni in diplomatic service. The curriculum emphasizes empirical research methods alongside theory, preparing graduates for both academic and practitioner careers.
Ques. What are my visa options after I graduate from the BA International Relations programme?
Ans. After graduation, you are eligible for 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT), which grants work authorization with any employer. After OPT, you may pursue an H-1B work visa (requires employer sponsorship), an L-1 visa (intra-company transfer), or begin the permanent residency pathway. Government, NGO, and consulting roles frequently sponsor visas for IR graduates.
San Francisco State University’s BA International Relations programme combines theory, research rigor, and applied practice in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. The APSIA affiliation and strong faculty mentorship create pathways into diplomacy, policy analysis, and international development. Total cost is significant—approximately INR 1.25 Crore over four years—but on-campus work and post-graduation OPT employment can offset early-career costs. The programme is ideal for Indian students with strong analytical writing skills, curiosity about global systems, and readiness for a US education experience.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $7288 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $7522 |
Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BeArt Presets-Academic Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,500/Yr$2,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Chuan Ai Lu Engstrom Memorial Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jagdish Bhagwati Fellowship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 4,000/Yr$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
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