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Study in San Diego, California 2025

This content was developed and approved with active participation of Sam Jones.

In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:

  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Education_in_San_Diego
  • https://ucsd.edu/
Current page last update date: 2025-07-15
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Education opportunities in San Diego, California, are abundant for foreign students, teenagers, and learners at every level, spanning high schools, colleges, universities, and specialized academic programs. The city boasts over 750 public primary and secondary schools, alongside approximately 300 private institutions. As the second largest city in California after Los Angeles, San Diego is known for its pleasant climate, dynamic business environment, and vibrant student social scene, all underscored by a welcoming and serene atmosphere. It hosts numerous large universities and a variety of language schools, facilitating programs that integrate leisure with learning.

Our specialists in international education are ready to assist you in identifying the most suitable study options for foreign students, outlining tuition costs, requirements, and deadlines.

Alternative destinations

Study in San Diego. Guide for International Students

As a lively hub on the U.S. West Coast, San Diego has emerged as a center for education, research, and advanced technological industries. Its emphasis on fields like medicine and oceanography, paired with favorable weather, makes it an attractive choice for those seeking to study abroad.

Both public and private schools in San Diego offer extensive educational programs. Public institutions serve local and foreign students, while private schools often provide a wider variety of options, including bilingual education in languages such as Spanish, German, Chinese, and French. These private institutions, which have historical ties to various faiths, primarily deliver secular education today, with annual costs ranging from $45,000 to $65,000.

Notable Rankings include:

Svetlana Iakovleva
Svetlana Iakovleva
Director of International Enrollment Management

What advice would you give to future applicants before applying to US schools and why?

School rankings should be a small part of your decision process. Please watch the school videos, read more about the place when the school is located, read about the teachers, explore AP and Honors courses and learn about clubs and other activities offered by a school. Do not forget about ESL if you dream big and plan to apply to top-100 US universities.

 

University Education in San Diego for International Students

For those interested in higher education, San Diego's prestigious universities and state colleges offer a myriad of programs in areas such as Arts, Humanities, Biology, Physics, Social Sciences, Engineering, International Relations, Pacific Studies, Management, Medicine, Oceanography, and Pharmaceuticals. These institutions offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The study fees for international students at these universities range from $12,500 to $40,000.

Top Universities in San Diego

Academic Programs in San Diego for Foreign Students

San Diego also offers a variety of academic programs for those seeking to improve their language skills or partake in short-term courses. These include preparation for language tests, vacation and camp programs for children, English courses with educational objectives, adult language courses, and English for business purposes. The cost for these academic courses starts from $300 per week.

For those looking to embark on this educational journey, understanding how to apply for a study permit is crucial. The process involves several steps and requirements, which are essential to fulfill for a successful study experience in this dynamic city. With its combination of quality education, diverse programs, and a welcoming environment, San Diego stands out as a top destination for students from around the world.

General statistics on education in San Diego

General information about San Diego

Country United States
Region California
Region 2 San Diego County
Population 1,307,402
Time Zone America/Los_Angeles

Cost of living in San Diego

Expenses - USD/Month. Min. Med.
Accommodation 626 759
Food 277 483
Transportation 58 170
Communications and utilities 91 97
Clothing 21 78
Sports and leisure 24 102
Total 1,098 1,689

Accommodation options in San Diego per month

Shared room outside of centre 633$
Shared room in city centre 767$
1 bedroom apartment outside of centre 1,073$
1 bedroom apartment in city centre 1,420$

Coordinates of San Diego

Time Zone America/Los_Angeles
GMT -8
DST -7
Latitude 32.715330000
Longitude -117.157260000
Elevation 20 m.
Elevation (STRM3) 31 m.

Literature and references

References
  1. University of California, San Diego (UCSD) — QS item link icon
  2. University of San Diego — QS item link icon
  3. Study in San Diego — QS item link icon
  4. Universities in San Diego, USA — Rankings & Reviews item link icon
  5. University of San Diego — QS item link icon
  6. Study in San Diego — QS item link icon
  7. Universities in San Diego, USA — Rankings & Reviews item link icon
  8. University of California, San Diego — THE item link icon
  9. University of San Diego — THE item link icon
  10. San Diego City College — Main item link icon
  11. University of San Diego — Main item link icon
  12. Schools in San Diego — Wiki item link icon
  13. Education in San Diego — Wiki item link icon
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Sam Jones
Sam Jones
Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

Sam is the Regional Director of Student Admissions at INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia). Sam has nearly 20 years' experience in international education. Also, he has experience in student recruitment for institutions in the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand and is a qualified EFL teacher with many years of experience teaching abroad. He understands the challenges faced by international students and is aware of all these difficulties and have vast experience in helping foreign students.
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