California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo campus
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo logo

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · Public · 21,996 students

An active community where you can find your place.

Acceptance rate

31.3%

Avg net price

$16,665

after aid

Testing

blind

2027 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo’s admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Getting in is the hard part. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo admitted 31.3% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo actually rewards, and 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.

Applying

Requirements and deadlines

  • Testingblind (2027 cycle)

Verified from calpoly.edu.

Cost and aid

What you will actually pay

The sticker price is about $32,265, but that is not 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.

Campus life

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.

Hands-onCommunity-focusedPractical

Quick answers

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo FAQ

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 blind.
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, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $16,665.
Is California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $90,768 ten years after enrolling, and 86% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

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. Join the waitlist to get in early.