Understanding the San Jose State University Application Fee

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Thinking of applying to San Jose State University (SJSU)? SJSU is one of the most prestigious universities in California State University (CSU), offering world class education to students. It’s ranked 4th in the 2025 edition of Best Colleges in Regional Universities West.  This article offers key insights on San Jose State University application fees, admission process, waivers, etc.

To learn more about SJSU courses and admission requirements, sign up at HelloUni Education Overseas Consultants. Read on to learn more about the San Jose State University application fee and how to apply to the university.

San Jose State University Application Fee: What to Know

The San José State University application fee is $70 for each CSU campus you apply to. This is a non-refundable amount. Therefore, if you’re applying to SJSU and other CSU schools as well, you’ll need to pay $70 for each school/campus. Also, graduate program applicants can only apply to one program on each application. Applications need to be submitted through the centralized CSU platform Cal State Apply.

The San José State University application fee helps to cover administrative costs like processing your application, reviewing transcripts, and system maintenance. The fee helps to ensure a seamless and timely admissions process for all applicants.

Can You Get an Application Fee Waiver?

Yes, you can get a San José State University application fee waiver. The CSU application system can automatically determine whether you’re eligible for an application fee waiver during the application process. If you’re eligible for a waiver, the system will not charge you the application fees for up to four CSU campuses. You can be eligible for an application fee waiver if:

  • You’re a US citizen or eligible non-citizen, i.e., someone without legal immigration status eligible for an AB540 non-resident tuition exception.
  • You meet specific income guidelines.
  • You get benefits, e.g., free or reduced lunch, SNAP, or public assistance.
  • You’re a dependent student with parents/guardians who meet the low-income threshold.

Ensure you’ve correctly provided your financial and family information in the application for evaluation.

How to Apply to San Jose State University?

●       Visit Cal State Apply

Go to Cal State Apply, the official application platform for all CSU campuses. If you have an existing account, you’ll need to log in else, you’ll need to create an account to log in.

●       Start Your Application

After logging in, depending on the course you’re applying to, choose the correct application type. Graduate students will need to opt for “Graduate,” and undergraduation students will need to choose “First-Time Freshman.” Ensure that you’re applying well before the deadline. This’ll ensure you’ll have adequate time to gather and submit all the required information. The fall admissions window is typically between October to November.

●       Choose Your Major

From the list of campuses, choose select San José State University. Next, choose your preferred major you’re applying to.

●       Complete the Required Sections

The application is divided into multiple parts:

  • Personal and contact information
    • High school or college transcripts
    • Residency details
    • Financial and family details (for fee waiver eligibility)
    • GRE and proof of English proficiency test scores (if required)
    • Extracurricular activities and achievements

●       Pay the San José State University Application Fee

When your application is complete, the system will prompt you to pay the San Jose State University application fee of $70 unless you’ve qualified for a fee waiver. You can make the payment using a credit card, debit card, PayPal, or electronic check.

●       Submit and Monitor Your Application

Review the application, ensure that all information is correct, and submit the application. After applying, you’ll get a confirmation email. You can also use the SJSU student portal where you can track your application status, submit any additional materials, and check whether you’ve been selected or not.

 Applying to SJSU is simple when you understand the steps and associated fees. Plan ahead and check whether you’re eligible for the San Jose State University application fee waiver.

If you still have any doubts regarding San Jose State University admissions, contact us at HelloUni Education Overseas Consultants today. We’ll help you seamlessly get through the application process.

FAQs

Is the San José State University application fee refundable if I don’t get accepted?

No, even if you aren’t accepted into SJSU, the $70 application fee is non-refundable.

What’s the housing application fees for SJSU?

 If you plan to live on campus, SJSU charges a $50 non-refundable housing application fee and a $300 initial housing payment, credited towards your room and boarding.

What’s the tuition cost for SJSU?

 The in-state tuition and fees for SJSU are $8,410, and out-of-state tuition and fees are $21,010.

How to know if my fee waiver was approved?

The Cal State Apply system notifies you instantly if you’re granted a fee waiver.