Open University
Through Open University at SFSU, you can take University classes without formally being admitted. Whether you're looking to explore a new subject, earn transferable credit or finish your degree, Open University gives you the flexibility to enroll in available courses each fall, spring or summer. You may apply up to 24 undergraduate or six graduate units earned through Open University toward a degree at SFSU.
Class Schedule
Explore SFSU classes
How to Register
How to register and start taking classes
Contact
Contact us with your questions
About Open University
Important Dates
Open University is offered in fall, spring and summer.
For winter classes, see Winter Session.
| - | Fall 2025 | Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Opens | 8/11/2025 | 1/17/2025 | 4/23/2025 |
| First Day of Instruction | 8/25/2025 | 1/27/2025 | R1: 6/2/2025 R2: 6/16/2025 R3: 7/7/2025 R4: 6/2/2025 |
| Last Day to Add | 9/15/2025 | 2/17/2025 | R1: 6/13/2025 R2: 6/27/2025 R3: 7/18/2025 R4: 6/13/2025 |
| Last Day to Drop with Full Refund* | 9/15/2025 | 2/17/2025 | R1: 6/13/2025 R2: 6/27/2025 R3: 7/18/2025 R4: 6/13/2025 |
| Last Day of Instruction | 12/19/2025 | 5/16/2025 | R1:7/3/2025 R2: 8/8/2025 R3: 8/8/2025 R4: 8/8/2025 |
*$20 processing fee applies
Is Open University Right for You?
You can enroll through Open University if you want to:
- Take upper-division courses before transferring from community college
- Raise your GPA before returning to SFSU or another university
- Earn college credit as a high school student after your junior year
- Learn new skills for a career change
- Explore a subject you’re interested in
If you’re already admitted to SFSU, you are not eligible for Open University.
International Students
SFSU does not provide I-20 forms for Open University. If you already have a valid visa or an I-20 from another school, you may enroll in classes through Open University. It’s your responsibility to stay in compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) rules.
Cost and Length
Cost
$449 per unit
Course Length
- Fall and spring: One semester (4 months)
- Summer: One session (1–2 months)
Registration Start Dates
- Fall: Early August
- Spring: Mid-January
- Summer: Mid-April
News and Events
-
Register Starting August 11, 2025 Open University registration for fall 2025 starts August 11. Find your classes now on the… -
American Society of Criminology President’s Award for Distinguished Contributions to Justice Project Rebound won the Preside…
-
SFSU will be closed for Labor Day on Monday, September 1, 2025.