
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
An active community where you can find your place.
Acceptance rate
31.3%
Avg net price
$16,665
after aid
Testing
Not considered
2027 cycle
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo admissions site.
Go deeper
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo admitted 31.3% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s selective. Fewer than half of the students who apply get in.
The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.
What they value
Experience is the Curriculum
Well into our second century, Learn by Doing continues to set Cal Poly students apart from the crowd and prepare them for career success, from day one.
The curriculum is practice-oriented, often requiring internships, cooperative learning experiences, and culminating in a senior project.
- Academic CollegesAgriculture, Architecture, Engineering, Liberal Arts, Science & Math, Business
- Cal Poly Maritime AcademyMaritime leadership, global trade, seafaring tradition
Verified from calpoly.edu and calpoly.edu and calpoly.edu and calpoly.edu and calpoly.edu and calpoly.edu and calpoly.edu and registrar.calpoly.edu.
Cost and aid
What will you actually pay?
The sticker price is about $32,265. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $16,665.
Financial aid, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work study, is available from federal, state, institutional, and private sources to help make college affordable.
Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $90,768.
Verified from calpoly.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.
Academics
These are the most popular majors.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations14% of degrees
- Mechanical Engineering6% of degrees
- Computer Science4% of degrees
- Biology, General3% of degrees
- Animal Sciences3% of degrees
- Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering3% of degrees
Campus life
Here’s the feel of the place.
“Tour the campus, see 'Learn by Doing' in action, and meet your future classmates at Open House.”
From residence halls to a brand-new dining complex, you'll become part of an active community, whether on the main campus or at the Cal Poly Solano Campus on San Pablo Bay.
Quick answers
What do people ask about California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
- Is California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo test-optional?
- For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is not considered.
- How hard is it to get into California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
- Very hard. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo admits 31.3% of applicants. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
- How much does California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo cost?
- The list price is about $32,265. After aid, families pay $16,665 on average.
- Is California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $90,768 ten years after enrolling. 86% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.
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Ask Spike anything about California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo.
Spike answers from California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.