California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, United States • Founded 1901 • THE 2019 #801-1000
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Established in 1901, the California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of San Luis Obispo (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), California.
Officially accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in several areas of study.
This 122-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 30-39% making this US higher education organization a very selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
Cal Poly also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Need to mail, call, or visit California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo? Address, phone, and digital contact options below. Religious and cultural accommodation queries route through specific student services.
Academic Details
The figures below cover California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo's academic scale, faculty depth, and recognised standing. Treat the enrolment count as a point-in-time snapshot; trends require multi-year comparison.
Academic Structures
The academic-side structure of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, broken down by unit type. International branch campuses, where they exist, are sometimes organised as separate units with their own structure.
Unit 6 items
- Bailey College of Science and Mathematics
- College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
- College of Architecture and Environmental Design
- College of Engineering
- College of Liberal Arts
- Orfalea College of Business
Programs Offered
Each programme at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo is grouped by the degree it leads to. New programmes can take 6–12 months to propagate through search engines, so the live catalogue here is the authoritative list.
125 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 77 programmes
Showing 10 of 77.
Master's Degree 45 programmes
Showing 10 of 45.
How to apply to California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Application guidance for California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, structured as five practical steps with attention to documents and admissions communication.
-
1
Find a programme that fits your goals
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo offers 125 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
-
2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Each programme at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
-
3
Assemble your application package
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
-
4
Submit your application
Apply directly via California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo's online portal at www.calpoly.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
-
5
Contact admissions and follow up
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (805) 756 1111. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Common questions students ask about California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
How old is California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo?
The institution opened in 1901 (approximately 125 years ago).
Where is California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo located?
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo is located in San Luis Obispo, United States.
Is California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo a public or private institution?
It is a public higher-education institution.
What is the student enrolment at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo?
Student enrolment at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo is around 21,996.
Where does California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo stand in university rankings?
It ranks THE 2019 #801-1000.
How many faculties does California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo have?
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo is organised into 6 academic units across its disciplines.
Is California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo accredited?
Yes, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo is recognised by WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Where can I learn more about California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo?
The institution's website is www.calpoly.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
The institutions topping the United States's rankings give national context for California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Context matters because employer perception in the United States often correlates with national rankings.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Below: other National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) member institutions, alongside California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
Faculties at nearby universities
Below are universities in the same area as California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
Where Else to Study General Engineering
These universities in the United States also offer General Engineering programmes, alongside California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
Universities Compared with California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Universities of a similar scale and standing to California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo are listed below.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
Spotted something outdated or missing?
Help us keep this page accurate — it takes about 30 seconds.
