California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
Cal Poly
San Luis Obispo, California 93407
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Top graduate earnings — known for engineering
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is a public institution in San Luis Obispo with particular strength in engineering and business.
A large campus of 21.5K undergraduates with a 18:1 student-faculty ratio. The suburban location offers a balance of campus life and nearby amenities.
85% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $90,768 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $15,624.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •The school began classes on October 1, 1903, with 20 students enrolled, offering three-year secondary-level courses.
- •Transition to higher education In 1924, Cal Poly came under the control of the California State Board of Education.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
77.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
8.7%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$15,396
Programs (128)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
95%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
153
Peer Average
240
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
24/7 campus police department, blue-light phone network, emergency mass notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from CA state average + suburban adjustment