Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA · Public · 21,996 undergrads

• Admit rate: 31.3% (63,736 applicants)
• Undergraduates: 21,996 (0.7% international)
• Average net price: $16,665 (per year after aid)
• Graduation rate: 86% (within 6 years)

Deadlines

• Regular Decision: Nov. 30, 2026

Editor's notes

• Your major choice is the biggest strategic decision on this application. Cal Poly admits by major, and the fall 2025 numbers show why it matters: Engineering selected 5,008 of 21,393 applicants, while Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences selected 2,922 of 7,038. Pick a major you actually want; you're competing inside it.
• Nothing here is written, so your course list does the talking. The CDS rates rigor and GPA Very important and essays, recommendations and tests Not considered. Enter every college-prep, honors and AP course exactly as your transcript shows it, including senior-year plans.
• Don't rush to beat other applicants. The window closes Nov. 30, Cal Poly says early submission earns no preference, and changes after you submit are very limited. Spend the time on accuracy instead.
• Activities and work count, and Cal Poly says so. The CDS lists extracurriculars, talent, volunteer and work experience as Considered, and the selection page asks about leadership roles.

Sources

1. Cal Poly Admissions, First-Year Student: How to Apply
2. Cal Poly Admissions, First-Year Student: Dates and Deadlines
3. Cal Poly Admissions, Selection Criteria for First-Year Students
4. Cal Poly Admissions, First-Year Student Profile (2025 preliminary)
5. Cal Poly Admissions, Application Resources
6. Cal Poly Admissions, High School Course Requirements
7. Cal Poly Admissions, First-Year Student: Cost and Aid