SDSU Astronomy Master's Degree Program Admissions Information

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SDSU Graduate Division Requirements for Admissions
Additional Notes:
(1) The minimum GPA for admissions is 2.85 / 4.00 for the last 60 units (credits) of your undergraduate class work. These are typically your junior and senior year (upper division) courses.
(2) The California State University requires a recent GRE General Exam score.
(3) The Astronomy Department strongly recommends that applicants take the Physics GRE, but this is not necessary for admissions.
(4) There is no strict minimum GRE score requirement. We carefully take into consideration many factors when deciding admission, including GPA, letters of recommendation, student statement, student research experience, etc..
(5) Students do not need to major in astronomy to be admitted. A major in astronomy/physics is ideal, but a solid background in math, engineering, or any physical science (chemistry, geology, etc.) would make you eligible. Scientific computing skills are helpful but are not necessary (you will become proficient in programming during your first semester).
(6) Students whose undergraduate instruction was primarily in a language other than English must take the TOEFL exam. The TOEFL exam may be taken via computer or via a paper exam. A minimum score of 550 on the paper exam, 213 on the computer-based TOEFL, and 79 on the Internet exam is required. We cannot accept TOEFL scores that are over two years old.


All transcripts and test scores must be sent to:
Graduate Admissions
Enrollment Services
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-7416
The personal statement, 2-3 letters of recommendation, and TA/GA application should be sent directly to the Astronomy Department:
Graduate Admissions Chair
Department of Astronomy
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-1221

Download the Teaching Associate/Graduate Assistantship TA/GA application form (PDF format); (PostScript format); (MS Word format).

SDSU Graduate Admissions Application Procedures
Prospective Student Center
Astronomy Department info, rules and courses (.pdf format) as listed in the SDSU Graduate Bulletin.
A description of all the graduate courses offered by the Astronomy Department.

Admissions Application Deadlines
For students entering the Fall semester:
Domestic Applicants: May 1
International Applicants: May 1

For the Spring semester:
Domestic Applicants: November 1
International Applicants: October 1

The dates listed above are the final dates that applications can be accepted. The Astronomy Department operates under a "rolling admissions" policy, meaning that students are accepted on a case-by-case basis as they apply. So it is definitely in the student's best interest to apply early. NOTE: For full TA/GA/ consideration (and any financial considerations, such as tuition waivers), the deadline for applications is March 1.

$$ How much does it cost to attend SDSU? Costs at SDSU are extremely low compared to similar universities. The latest can be found at these sites: Graduate Fees Document (PDF format) as listed in the Bulletin; SDSU Tuition & Registration Fees; Estimated 2006-07 Costs of Education and "money matters": cost of living for international students.
If you have questions about the payment of tuition & fees, please contact the University Cashiers, and also take a look at Student Financial Services.

For other frequently asked questions about admissions to SDSU see the FAQs.

International applicants/students, please see the SDSU International Student Center for information specific to international students.
All graduate and postbaccalaureate applicants, regardless of citizenship, whose preparatory education was principally in a language other that English must demonstrate competence in English. Those who do not possess a bachelor's degree from a postsecondary institution where English is the principal language of instruction must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The TOEFL exam may be taken via computer or via a paper exam. A minimum score of 550 on the paper exam or 213 on the computer-based TOEFL is required.


For further information about the graduate courses or degree programs, contact the Astronomy Department Graduate Advisor


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