General Schedule Overview

Below is an overview of what to expect during Visit Days. This is a “choose your own adventure” experience, so you’re welcome to attend any events that interest you after check-in!

One of the best ways to learn about a college is by talking with current students and staff. Depending on attendance and availability, we may be able to schedule additional events or meetings with students in your area of study. Please note that some events may overlap due to availability and class schedules. For more details, refer to the Visit Day Events in the next section.

*Sunday - Please note that attending only on Sunday is not currently available. Please contact Admissions if you can only attend on Sundays.
**Trips to Ocean Beach require pre-registration and are limited to 15 students. More information is provided in the registration form.

Guests

Each admitted student may bring up to two guests. Only one registration form is required per party. However, only one guest may stay with the admitted student in on-campus housing, and must be a parent, guardian, adult family member, or significant other over 18 years old.

Admitted students under 18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or adult family member.

On-Campus Housing at The Bowes Center

On-campus housing in the Bowes Center residence halls is available during Visit Days!

Please note that availability is limited, and we may not be able to accommodate all requests. Rooms will be assigned by 5:00 pm on the Friday before the event weekend. Since accommodation cannot be guaranteed, applicants should secure a refundable option or have a backup plan in place.

Admitted students under 18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or adult family member. Students over 18 may request housing for one adult guest, such as a significant other, parent, guardian, or adult family member

Important Room Information

• Rooming with Other Students: Admitted students may be placed in rooms or suites with other students, depending on attendance. Suites accommodate up to four people. Single rooms are not guaranteed, but special requests will be considered based on the information provided in the registration form.

• Gender-Inclusive Suites: Bowes Center suites are gender-inclusive. While self-identified genders will not be mixed in a single room, genders may be mixed within a suite, including shared bathroom and living spaces. We will avoid mixing self-identified genders in a suite during Admitted Visit Days unless all parties are comfortable. Visitors can indicate their comfort level with mixed-gender suites in the questions below. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed, but special requests will be considered based on the information provided in the registration form.

• Bedding, Towels, Pillow: Applicants must bring toiletries. Dorm rooms will include bedding (fitted sheet, flat sheet, blanket, pillow, and pillowcase) and bath linens (towel, hand towel, washcloth, bath mat, toilet paper, and basic hand soap).

• Cost: There is no charge for staying in the residence hall dorms.

Other Accommodations

We offer a 15% discount at the Hotel Enso in Japantown! Previous visitors have found accommodations in the Hayes Valley and Mission Dolores areas convenient for walking to the SFCM campus. However, many opt to stay in other parts of the city to explore various cultures and vibes. We recommend reading the San Francisco Travel Associations introduction to San Francisco Neighborhoods for more information.

Check-In

All attendees must check in with the Admissions Office to attend any lessons, events, sessions, or observations. Upon check-in, visitors will receive a security pass, an updated event schedule with locations, and other important information. Visitors staying multiple days only need to check in on the first day.

Below is the tentative check-in schedule, so you can plan your travel. An updated schedule and location details will be sent the Friday before each event week based on guest attendance and arrival times.

• Thursday and Friday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Saturday: 9:00 am - 11:00 am, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
• Sunday: Closed (Arrival on Sunday is not currently available. Please contact Admissions if you can only attend on Sundays.)

When to Arrive

For those staying on campus at the Bowes Center, please arrive at least one hour before your first event to check in, access your room, and walk to the event location. All other visitors should arrive at least 30 minutes before their first event to check in.

The SFCM campus has two buildings, the Ann Getty Center and The Bowes Center.  Both buildings are within two city blocks and a five-minute walk from each other!

Campus Addresses

• Ann Getty Center for Education: 50 Oak St. San Francisco, CA 94102
• (The Bowes Center) The Ute and William K. Bowes, Jr. Center for Performing Arts: 200 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102

Parking

There are several places to park in Hayes Valley and Civic Center in San Francisco including metered street parking, lots, and parking garages. Here are the two closest parking garages.

• Performing Arts Garage: 360 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102. Entrance on Grove, between Franklin and Gough
  Civic Center Plaza Garage: 355 McAllister St, San Francisco, CA 94102

More information about getting to SFCM and transportation options to the Conservatory can be found here.

Below is an overview of the tentative class observations for April 10-11, 2025

The class schedule is subject to change based on scheduling needs, class availability, testing schedules, and any last-minute adjustments. A finalized list will be made up of classes selected by students in their registration form. Seats are prioritized for students and classes listed under "Area of Study" are prioritized for the specific area of study. 

Ensembles, Opera & Musical Theater

Professional Development and Electives

Area of Study Classes

Seats are prioritized for the admitted area of study.

Below is an overview of the tentative class observations for April 24-25, 2025

The class schedule is subject to change based on scheduling needs, class availability, testing schedules, and any last-minute adjustments. A finalized list will be made up of classes selected by students in their registration form. Seats are prioritized for students and classes listed under "Area of Study" are prioritized for the specific area of study. 

Ensembles, Opera & Musical Theater

Professional Development and Electives

Area of Study Classes

Seats are prioritized for the admitted area of study.

Our goal is to provide you and your support system with the opportunity to ask questions and gather information, helping you make the most informed college decision.

The following tentative sessions are primarily Q&A based, though some offices may offer a brief presentation with slides. Since discussions are audience-led, content may vary - feel free to attend multiple times!

Event times may shift based on class interest, and some sessions may overlap with class observations or other events. Additional office hours or appointments for Professional Development, Financial Aid, and Academic Affairs may be announced.

Weekend 1

Weekend 2

Event Descriptions

Professional Development
Professional development is a core model of our mission at SFCM. Stop in to learn about on and off campus jobs, assistantships, teaching, gigs, grants, internships, networking, help with resume building, classes, and more! Read about Professional Development.

Student Affairs 
Stop in to meet student affairs and ask questions about student services, including international student services, student life and programming, housing and dining, health and wellness, accommodations, campus safety, and more.

Academic Affairs 
Learn more about degree requirements, placement exams, academic support and resources.

Admissions 
Connect with the Admissions Office about your application, scholarships, and next steps!

Financial Aid
Talk with the Financial Aid office about your package and other questions regarding affordability for SFCM. Individual appointments may be possible!

Ensemble Experience 
Meet with Director of Ensemble Operations, Abbey Springer, to learn about placement and ensembles at SFCM!

SFCM campus tours and the Hayes Valley/Artistic Neighborhood Walking Tour will be scheduled based on the final list of classes that students express interest in attending. We expect to offer at least one Hayes Valley tour per day and multiple campus tours daily. Some sessions will overlap with class observations or other events. 

Campus Tours (60 min)

Join us for 60-minute campus tours led by current Admissions Office student staff. These interactive tours offer you the chance to ask questions while experiencing our campus firsthand. Explore the Ann Getty Center (50 Oak Street) and The Bowes Center facilities and dorms (200 Van Ness Ave) with us.

The Hayes Valley and Artistic Neighborhood Tour (60 min)

Join us for a guided walking tour through Hayes Valley, one of San Francisco’s most vibrant neighborhoods! We’ll take you to some of our favorite spots while highlighting our world-class artistic neighbors, including SFJAZZ, San Francisco Opera, Davies Symphony Hall with the SF Symphony, and the San Francisco Ballet. Along the way, you’ll discover the charm of local cafes, public art, and community spaces that make this area a hub for creativity and culture.

Campus Life Events

*Trips to Ocean Beach require pre-registration and are limited to 15 students. More information is provided in the registration form.

Clubs and Affiliations

Clubs meet for one hour at the following times! Additional club events may be added to the schedule!

Event Descriptions

• Rooftop Social & Board Game Night: Enjoy a relaxing rooftop hangout with the other admitted students, and current students at the Bowes Center on Casey Terrace, inside in the Zak Lounge, or student commons. In the student commons we will also have board and card games for those who are interested! We will have fire pits, hot chocolate, tea, soda and snacks! Get to know what it’s like to live at Bowes and experience life as an SFCM student!
• Trip to Ocean Beach: Join current SFCM students on a trip to Ocean Beach! Try out our amazing underground light rail, the MUNI, to enjoy an afternoon in the sun and walk through Golden Gate Park. Be sure to layer up and bring a jacket as it can get cold.

Club Information

• Arise Christian Fellowship: Arise Christian Fellowship is a student-led group at SFCM that meets weekly for Bible study and prayer. Their mission is to learn and apply what the Bible says about being musicians and artists, and to support and encourage one another on campus. All are welcome to join, regardless of faith background!
• Black Student Union: BSU is dedicated to fostering a supportive, inclusive space for Black students, celebrating Black heritage, and promoting cultural awareness, academic excellence, and social justice. Come be part of the conversation as we advocate for the needs of our members and build solidarity on campus. All are welcome!
• Basketball Club: Love playing hoops? Looking for a fun group to shoot around with? Join the Basketball Club! We meet regularly for casual games and friendly competition. Scan the QR code to hop into our Instagram group chat and stay updated on game times and locations. All skill levels are welcome—come out and play!
• Black Student Union: BSU is dedicated to fostering a supportive, inclusive space for Black students, celebrating Black heritage, and promoting cultural awareness, academic excellence, and social justice. Come be part of the conversation as we advocate for the needs of our members and build solidarity on campus. All are welcome!
• Film-Making Club: The club focuses on learning and executing the entire process of making a film, from pre-production to post-production, by not only studying different films, but also making films from start to finish.
• Game Audio Club: Each week we meet to discuss all things game audio, whether that be music, sound design, or audio programming. Members are encouraged to bring in their own topics for discussion, projects to share, or just their eyes and ears to learn more about this unique application of music and technology. Any majors and experience levels are welcome, our club is for anyone interested. We plan to also host multiple guest speakers throughout the year, to give better insight into the game development industry.
• Jewish Student Collective: Join us for The Night of Jewish Music, presented by the Jewish Music Collective! This vibrant concert is a celebration that features a diverse program of Jewish music from across the diaspora. Listen to genres like classical, opera, klezmer, Sephardic melodies, and even works by contemporary Jewish composers. Experience the richness of Jewish culture through the powerful language of music in a night filled with joy, energy, and celebration. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the sounds that have shaped Jewish history and tradition in one unforgettable concert!
• Pride Network: Get to know members of the Pride Network, which is open to all current students that identify as a part of the LQBTQIA+ community as well as allies! We’ll have some snacks and activities to get to know each other!

Self Guided Sundays

On Sundays, we've set aside time for admitted students and their families to explore San Francisco! We encourage visitors to venture beyond the arts district and experience the city's unique charm.

Taking Public Transportation vs. Rideshare

MUNI, our city’s public transportation, is fantastic! We recommend downloading the MUNI Mobile App  for easy navigation. Check out the quick start guide here. If you're looking to explore as much of the city as possible, we suggest using rideshare apps like Uber, Lyft, or the fun Waymo. Prices vary but are generally reasonable and offer a quick way to travel around San Francisco.

Public Transportation Costs:

• Day passes for buses and light rail (above and below ground) are $5.50.
• For Cable Car access, the Visitor Passport costs $14.00 for unlimited rides.
• If you only want to ride the Cable Car, tickets can be purchased through the app, and a pass is not required. Learn more here.

Tour Map

Below is a preview of our self-guided tour map, featuring landmarks such as Golden Gate Park, the Ferry Building, Palace of Fine Arts, Japantown, Castro Theatre, and other must-see spots. The map will be available to visitors both at check-in and electronically. 

Be sure to check out our Explore SF section next for student recommendations on where to visit and eat while you're in town!

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Admitted students are encouraged to connect with their studio teacher or area to help them make the best decision regarding their Fall 2025 admission.

Please note that faculty availability during Admitted Visit Days may be limited, and meetings or lessons are contingent upon their availability and course schedule.

Recommendations from Current Students

San Francisco may be small in size, covering only about 49 square miles, but it's bursting with attractions and excitement! This compact layout makes it incredibly convenient to explore and experience a multitude of sights and sounds in a short amount of time. Truly, great things come in small packages!

• Climb to the top of Coit Tower
• Explore one of many incredible museums
• Ride a Cable Car to Ghirardelli Square
• Visit and explore Golden Gate Park
• Explore Dolores Park and The Mission
• Check out the architecture of Haight-Ashbury
• Visit Alcatraz Island
• Explore Ocean Beach and North Beach
• Explore the Marin Headlands and Muir Woods
• Check out City Hall
• Hikes: Twin Peaks Hike, Land’s End Hike

The San Francisco Travel Association also has a list of 28 things not to miss in San Francisco!

Bakery

• La Boulangerie in Hayes Valley
• Arizmendi
• Tartine

Lunch and Dinner

• Dragon Eats
• Doppio Zero
• RT Rotisserie
• El Farolita
• Hog Island Oyster Co.
• Wise Sons Bagel in Hayes Valley
• Taqueria Cazadores
• The Food Basket, corner store on Laguna and Fell Streets
• Pancho Villa Taqueria in the Mission

Ice Cream and Desert

• Dandelion Chocolate
• Humphrey Slocombe (ice cream)
• Smitten’s ice cream
• Salt & Straw (ice cream)
• Chocolate from Ghirardelli Square
• Yank Sing
• Souvla’s - Frozen yogurt
• Golden Gate Fortune Cookies

During the academic year, SFCM students are given a MUNI Class Pass that gives them unrestricted access to all buses and above/below ground light rail.

Many faculty, staff, and students ride pedal and electric bikes to work, as well as scouters! There is an incredible network of dedicated bike lanes and routes, as well as streets that are specified "bike priority" and "slow streets" which prioritize pedestrians and bikes.

Students rarely need a car in SF. If a car is needed, Zip car is a great alternative car rental company where we have a discounted hourly rate of $15. 

Learn more here about other transportation options!

Below is a list of featured large events during Visit Days. We also encourage you to explore the various student recitals scheduled throughout your visit.

Week 1

April 9 - Chen Zhao Violin Studio Recital, Barbro Osher Recital Hall, 11th Floor Bowes Center, 7:30 PM
April 9 - Collaborative Piano Department Recital, Osher Salon, Ann Getty Center, 7:30 PM
April 10 - Guitar Department Recital, Sol Joseph Recital Hall, Ann Getty Center, 7:30 PM
April 11 - Violin Department Recital, Sol Joseph Recital Hall, Ann Getty Center, 7:30 PM
April 12 - Historical Performance Presents: Orlando by Handel, Hume Concert Hall, Ann Getty Center, 7:30 PM
April 13 - Historical Performance Presents: Orlando by Handel, Hume Concert Hal, Ann Getty Center, 2:00 PM

Week 2

April 23 - Brass Choir Recital, Hume Concert Hall, Ann Getty Center, 7:30 PM
April 23 - Cello Department Recital, Sol Joseph Recital Hall, Ann Getty Center, 7:30 PM
April 23 - Collaborative Piano Department Recital, Cha Chi Ming Recital Hall, 1st Floor Bowes Center, 7:30 PM
April 24 - SFFILM & TAC Present: The 2025 Sound and Cinema Fellowship Screening, Barbro Osher Recital Hall, 11th Floor Bowes Center, 6:00 PM
April 24 - String and Piano Chamber Music Recital, Hume Concert Hall, Ann Getty Center, 7:30 PM
April 25 - Composition Department Recital, Barbro Osher Recital Hall, 11th Floor Bowes Center, 7:30 PM
April 25 - Undergraduate Opera Workshop Performance, Sol Joseph Recital Hall, Ann Getty Center, 7:30 PM
April 26 - Jewish Heritage Concert, Sol Joseph Recital Hall, Ann Getty Center, 7:30 PM

The San Francisco Conservatory of Music is located in the heart of San Francisco’s arts district. SFCM is perfectly placed to offer you direct access to musical artistry of the highest caliber. 

Explore Events in San Francisco

• San Francisco Symphony
• San Francisco Opera
• San Francisco Ballet
• San Francisco Jazz
• Mr. Tipple's Jazz Club
• Rickshaw Stop
• Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
• Golden Gate Theatre
• Orpheum Theatre
• SF Performances' Herbst Theatre