STEM Exploration Program

The STEM Exploration Program (SEP): Students will gain English language skills while exploring applied Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) in the San Francisco Bay Area. Student activities include site visits to experience and learn about topics including computer science, engineering, mathematics, life sciences and environmental sustainability.

The program is designed for undergraduate and graduate students and professionals. There are two- to four-week programs available. Customized programs and dates are available for groups, for example, the Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program.

Experience

STEM students work on a machine

Highlights

  • Northern California Bay Area
  • Silicon Valley tour
  • Field trips and site visits
  • Interact with industry and academic experts
  • Conversation partnering in groups with local undergraduate and graduate students
Touring English language students outside Intel headquarters

Themes

  • Biological Science
  • Engineering
  • Generative AI
  • Data Science
  • Food Science & Nutrition
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Environmental Protection
  • Chemistry & Materials Science
STEM students engineering a contraption

Advance Your Knowledge

  • Learn and discuss current topics in applied science and technology
  • Create and deliver short academic presentations
  • Practice listening and speaking English in and out of the classroom

No student visa (F-1) required. ESTA or B-2 Visa.

About the STEM Exploration Program

Pair of hardware engineers work together

Cost and Length

Cost:
$1,535 - $2,995

Length:
2 - 4 Weeks

When to Start:
Spring, Summer, Winter

Program Fees Include:

  • 15 hours a week of classroom instruction + excursions and cultural events
  • Entrance fees for visits to museums
  • Silicon Valley one-day trip including transportation
  • San Francisco Bay cruise
  • Excursion leaders on all site visits
  • An unlimited monthly San Francisco public transportation (Muni) pass
  • Weekly SF State faculty lectures integrated into lessons
  • SF State Conversation Partners joining lessons daily
  • Airport pick-ups available for groups for additional fee

Dates and Tuition

Winter 2025

Winter 2025 Dates and Tuition
Program Length Program Dates Program Fees Priority Application Deadline* Housing
4 weeks January 13 - February 7, 2025 $2, 995 November 15, 2024 Off-campus housing
3 weeks January 13 - January 31, 2025 $2,305 November 15, 2024 Off-campus housing
2 weeks January 13 - January 24, 2025 $1,535 November 15, 2024 Off-campus housing

*Applications may be accepted after the priority deadline depending on space availability.

Spring 2025

Spring 2025 Dates and Tuition
Program Length Program Dates Program Fees Priority Application Deadline* Housing
4 weeks February 17 - March 14, 2025 $2,995 December 15, 2024 Off-campus housing
3 weeks February 17 - March 7, 2025 $2,305 December 15, 2024 Off-campus housing
2 weeks February 17 - 28, 2025 $1,355 December 15, 2024 Off-campus housing

*Applications may be accepted after the priority deadline depending on space availability.

Summer A 2025

Summer A Dates and Tuition
Program Length Program Dates Program Fees Priority Application Deadline* Housing**
4 weeks July 7 - August 1, 2025 $2,995 May 5, 2025 On- or off-campus housing | On-campus rate: TBA
3 weeks July 7 - July 25, 2025 $2,305 May 5, 2025 On- or off-campus housing | On-campus rate: TBA
2 weeks July 7 - July 18, 2025 $1,535 May 5, 2025 On- or off-campus housing | On-campus rate: TBA

*Applications may be accepted after the priority deadline depending on space availability.
**Rates are per person and subject to change. See Housing for details.

Summer B 2025

Summer B Dates and Tuition
Program Length Program Dates Program Fees Priority Application Deadline* Housing
4 weeks August 11 - September 5, 2025 $2,995 June 5, 2025 Off-campus housing
3 weeks August 11 - August 29, 2025 $2,305 June 5, 2025 Off-campus housing
2 weeks August 11 - August 22, 2025 $1,535 June 5, 2025 Off-campus housing

*Applications may be accepted after the priority deadline depending on space availability.

Program Fee Refund Policy

Refund Deadlines

Refund Deadlines
Term 100% Refund Deadline 75% Refund Deadline
Winter 2025 Friday, December 13, 2024 Sunday, January 12, 2025
Spring 2025 Friday, January 17, 2025 Sunday, February 16, 2025
Summer A 2025 Friday, June 6, 2025 Sunday, July 6, 2025
Summer B 2025 Friday, July 11, 2025 Sunday, August 10, 2025

Refund Directions - Refunds Are Not Automatic

  1. Email globaled@sfsu.edu
  2. Subject: STEM Exploration (your program session and week) cancel request
  3. Fill out
    • Your name
    • SF State ID
    • Reasons for cancellation
    • Payment method (e.g., Flywire international payment)

Contact globaled@sfsu.edu if you have any questions.

News & Events

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