Business Details
48 Years
experience
Transformative College Prep Education in San Francisco
San Francisco University High School engages a diverse community in a transformational educational experience centered on the spirited pursuit of learning and empowerment beyond self-interest. With a student body where 60% identify as students of color and faculty where 48% identify as faculty of color, we foster an inclusive environment that values inquiry, care, integrity, agency, and interconnection. Our curriculum combines rigorous liberal arts and sciences education with 95 electives, independent study opportunities, and 55+ student-led clubs. We prioritize equity through a $5.4M financial aid program supporting 23% of students, ensuring accessibility regardless of socioeconomic background.Our graduates, prepared for college and lifelong learning, demonstrate excellence through 81% participation in athletics across 42 teams and 95% enrollment in college preparatory high schools through our Breakthrough Summerbridge program. The school's commitment to anti-racist, anti-oppressive practices is reflected in its intentional focus on wellness, collaboration, and social responsibility.
Services
College preparatory curriculum
Arts programs
Athletics teams
Financial aid program
Independent study
Summerbridge program
College counseling
Language courses
Physical education
Student clubs
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- We offer 95 electives and independent study opportunities for personalized learning
- Our 48% faculty of color reflects our commitment to diversity and inclusion
- Breakthrough Summerbridge program has sent 95% of participants to college preparatory schools
- 81% student participation in athletics across 42 teams develops well-rounded individuals
- We award $5.4M in financial aid annually to ensure educational access
What people say
Transformational experience
Supportive community
Excellent college prep
Diverse environment
Lifelong learning
Services
College preparatory curriculum
Our college preparatory curriculum combines liberal arts and sciences education with 95 electives. Students complete four years of English, three years of science, and six semesters of mathematics. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical writing, and interdisciplinary learning through courses like Civilization & the Arts, which integrates history, art, and music.
Arts programs
The arts program develops understanding and creation through visual arts, music, and theater. Students take Civilization & the Arts in sophomore year, followed by electives in AP Studio Art, Theater Production, and AP Music Theory. The curriculum builds skills in creative expression while emphasizing cultural context and historical significance across artistic disciplines.
Athletics teams
Our athletics program features 42 teams across 20 sports with 81% student participation. The program combines interscholastic competition with physical education classes and strength training. Students develop teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness through sports like lacrosse, squash, and rock climbing while maintaining academic priorities.
Financial aid program
The financial aid program awards $5.4M annually to 23% of students based on demonstrated need. Need-blind admissions ensure equitable access, with average aid packages reducing tuition to $15,409. The program maintains socioeconomic diversity through individualized support while preserving academic standards and community quality.
Independent study
Independent study allows students to design self-directed projects under faculty mentorship. Available for full or half-semester credit, these projects emphasize original research, creative expression, and specialized topics beyond standard curriculum. Evaluation focuses on process and growth rather than traditional grading metrics.
People
Nasif Iskander
Interim Head of School
With 30+ years at UHS, Nasif Iskander has served as Physics teacher, Academic Dean, and Assistant Head of School. He helped develop UHS's Vision & Values and equity-focused teaching model. Parent of a UHS graduate, he leads institutional decision-making through data-driven approaches.
Kate Garrett
Director of College Counseling
Kate Garrett leads college counseling, guiding students through self-discovery and strategic applications. With expertise in college selection and financial aid processes, she ensures graduates gain admission to top institutions while maintaining focus on personal growth and purpose.
Nate Lundy
Director of Enrollment Management & Strategy
Nate Lundy oversees admissions and financial aid operations, managing $5.4M in aid distribution. He implements need-blind admissions policies and coordinates outreach programs to maintain socioeconomic diversity across 51 zip codes.
Questions
What does UHS look for in students?
We seek motivated students who demonstrate academic potential and commitment to community. Our holistic review considers academic records, recommendations, personal essays, and interview performance, prioritizing those who will contribute beyond the classroom.
How much is tuition?
Tuition for 2025-2026 is $64,850, with $5.4M in financial aid available to 23% of students based on need. Need-blind admissions ensure equitable access while maintaining academic standards.
What college counseling services are available?
Our college counseling program begins junior year, offering personalized guidance through self-discovery, application strategy, and decision-making. Counselors support essay writing, interview preparation, and financial aid applications with 100% college placement.
What extracurricular opportunities exist?
We offer 55+ student-led clubs, 42 athletic teams across 20 sports, and arts programs including theater production and AP Studio Art. Students can create new clubs with faculty sponsorship.
Is financial aid available for international students?
We don't sponsor international visas or provide ESL support, but consider applications from families relocating to the Bay Area. Financial aid eligibility follows the same need-based criteria as domestic applicants.
What makes UHS unique academically?
Our program combines college preparatory rigor with independent study opportunities, 95 electives, and interdisciplinary learning. The BlendEd Consortium expands course options through collaborative online instruction with top Bay Area schools.
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