California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), founded in 1901, is a premier public university known for its 'Learn by Doing' philosophy and strong STEM programs. Cal Poly offers over 65 undergraduate majors with particular strengths in engineering, agriculture, and architecture. The university's 9,178-acre campus includes the Swanton Pacific Ranch and the Poly Canyon Design Village.
Cal Poly's hands-on approach includes labs, field work, and industry-sponsored senior projects. The university's NCAA Division I athletics and 400+ student organizations create a vibrant campus life. Alumni include astronauts, tech entrepreneurs, and leaders in agriculture who credit Cal Poly with providing practical, career-ready education.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo Acceptance Rate
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is a well-known institution. It has a selective admission process. The acceptance rate of California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) is 30.43%. This means that 30 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
How Competitive are California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo Admissions?
- Moderately Competitive: Applicants need good academics and extracurriculars.
- GPA, SAT/ACT, and AP/IB courses significantly impact admission chances.
- A holistic review considers essays, recommendations, and leadership roles.
Since the acceptance rate is low, you need to perform exceptionally well in academics and other activities. However, since it is not below 20%, you still have a chance if your GPA isn\'t excellent. You can compensate for a lower GPA by scoring high on the SAT, and ACT, and taking IB or AP courses.
Additionally, a well-written letter of recommendation, your participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and your interpersonal communication skills can enhance your admission chances.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo Admission Requirements
Cal Poly GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at Cal Poly is 4. It means that Cal Poly is very selective in terms of the GPA. (Most schools report a weighted GPA, which is out of 4.0. However, some schools may use unweighted GPAs. For exact information, contact the school admission staff).
With an average GPA of 4, Cal Poly requires you to be near the top of your class. You need to score mostly A's in all classes to have good chances of admission. Additionally, AP or IB courses related to your chosen field (e.g., math, calculus, physics for engineering) will strengthen your application.
If your GPA is between 3.7 and 4, then you need higher SAT or ACT scores to compensate. You need a minimum of 3.6 GPA to secure admission at Cal Poly. Below this, the chances of admission will be very slim.
Can I Get Into Cal Poly Without SAT Or ACT?: California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo does not require admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process and does not recommend that students provide these scores. But it is better to submit the test score if you have performed well in the test. It gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies and hence will improve your chances of admission. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below. Normally, students may appear in the test 4 to 5 times to improve their scores. But if your score is not up to the mark and is less than the national or state average, then it is better not to submit the score as it will impact negatively.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them. The test score policy is already mentioned.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo Average SAT Score: 1315
The average SAT score of the admitted students at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is 1315 on the 1600 SAT scale.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it Competitive for SAT scores. You need to do well to score 1315 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (0 SAT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 0, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to Cal Poly. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| SAT Reading | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| SAT Composite | 1315 | 0 | 0 |
It means that if you have scored less than 0 then you are below most of the admitted students at Cal Poly and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 0 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1300
Can I get into California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) with a 0 SAT?
With a 0 SAT Score, your chances of admission at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) are good but the admission staff at Cal Poly tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Cal Poly Profile
Name: California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly)
Accredited by: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
How much does a degree from Cal Poly Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is USD: 29680. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is USD: 18766
How can I get a scholarship?
17.03% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 22.55 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Cal Poly and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Cal Poly as your choice in the form.
How much a Cal Poly Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the Cal Poly graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 90768. An average Cal Poly graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower than the requirements of California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL | 1291 | 27 |
| The University of Alabama | The University of Alabama, AL | 1304 | 27 |
| Auburn University | Auburn University, AL | 1292 | 27 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott, AZ | 1278 | 28 |
| University of the Pacific | University of the Pacific, CA | 1276 | 29 |
| University of Colorado Boulder | University of Colorado Boulder, CO | 1301 | 29 |
| United States Coast Guard Academy | United States Coast Guard Academy, CT | 1294 | 29 |
| University of Delaware | University of Delaware, DE | 1290 | 29 |
| University of Central Florida | University of Central Florida, FL | 1281 | 27 |
| Rollins College | Rollins College, FL | 1265 | 27 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive for California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chapman University | Chapman University, CA | 1316 | 29 |
| University of San Francisco | University of San Francisco, CA | 1323 | 29 |
| Fairfield University | Fairfield University, CT | 1325 | 30 |
| Florida State University | Florida State University, FL | 1309 | 29 |
| Covenant College | Covenant College, GA | 1315 | 28 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loyola Marymount University | Loyola Marymount University, CA | 1378 | 31 |
| Santa Clara University | Santa Clara University, CA | 1379 | 31 |
| Westmont College | Westmont College, CA | 1380 | 32 |
| University of Denver | University of Denver, CO | 1348 | 30 |
| Trinity College | Trinity College, CT | 1387 | 31 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Agricultural Engineering
- Agricultural Mechanization
- Agricultural Production Operations
- Agricultural Public Services
- Agriculture, General
- Animal Sciences
- Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services
- Architectural Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions About California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a high salary, $90768 annually, depending on the industry.
Question: What is the tuition fee for California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $29680 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are lower, 50% or less. It's important to apply early and showcase a strong academic profile.
Question: What is the acceptance rate for California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Answer: The acceptance rate of California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is 30.43 which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 4. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission to California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Answer: The minimum GPA required for admission is typically around 3.7, though this can vary depending on other factors such as test scores, extracurriculars, and essays.
Question: What are my chances at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo with a 3.7 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.7 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Question: Can I apply to California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo if my GPA is below 3.6
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 4, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement for California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Answer: Admission to California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1315 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 0-0
Question: Is it possible to transfer to California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer to California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: What is the campus culture like at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Answer: The campus culture at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is diverse and vibrant, with numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural activities. It’s an ideal environment for personal growth and building lifelong connections.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting into California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.