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California Polytechnic State University: Courses, Admission, Cost
1321 acre campus- Estd. 1901
About California Polytechnic State University
The California Polytechnic State University, is a public university that welcomed its first cohort of students in 1901. The main campus of the university is located in San Luis Obispo, USA. As per Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025, the university is ranked at #287, nationally. As part of its course catalogue, the university has 25 courses across 4 streams, the most popular being Business and Management Studies, Engineering, Science and Architecture and Planning. These courses are divided as 14 courses at UG level and 11 courses at graduate level. List of popular courses are B.Sc., BBA, MEM, M.Arch and B.Arch. The UG courses have an average duration of 4 years to 5 years, while that of graduate courses is around 10 months to 12 months. The California Polytechnic State University tuition fee for the first-year tuition fee for UG courses is USD 21,696 - 35,595. For PG courses, this costs 10 months to 12 months. For students relocating to San Luis Obispo, the annual cost of living is around USD 11,457 - 17,220. California Polytechnic State University prioritizes applicants with a solid academic track record and thus prospective students are required to satisfy the entry requirements, to have the best possible chance of admission at the institute. The following exam scores are deemed acceptable for admissions by the institute: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, GRE and GMAT.
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
1. "Learn by Doing" Philosophy.
2. Solid Academic Reputation.
3. Cal Poly's Central Coast location offers easy access to opportunities for applied research in winemaking, agriculture, and unique coastal ecosystems.
4. Cal Poly's Diversity and Inclusion is dedicated to developing into a more varied, equal, and welcoming atmosphere where all people can thrive and experience a sense of safety, respect, and belonging.
5. High Rankings.
California Polytechnic State University Ranking 2026
California Polytechnic State University is a well-known university nationally as well as globally, ranked by some of the top ranking bodies. According to Shiksha Popularity Ranking, California Polytechnic State University ranking was recorded as #287 at the national level for year 2025.
The university is also ranked by QS at #1401 in 2025 for the World University Ranking category. This ranking in 2024 was #1201, witnessing a declined trend.
The Shiksha Popularity Ranking recognizes some of the courses offered by the university. California Polytechnic State University courses that are ranked include:
| Course name | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|
| BBA | #128 |
| MIM | #107 |
#821
#346
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
According to U.S. News & World Report, California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) is the top Regional University in the West. The same publication has named it the finest public master's-level university in the West for the previous 27 years. Furthermore, Forbes has ranked Cal Poly as one of the top 25 public and private institutions in the West and as the best public master's-level university in California. The university's stellar academic reputation and dedication to provide top-notch instruction are reflected in these rankings.
California Polytechnic State University courses
California Polytechnic State University offers over 25 courses at UG and graduate levels to Indian students through 6 departments. While it has 14 courses at UG level and 11 courses at the graduate level that Indian students can choose from. These California Polytechnic State University courses are offered in over 4 streams fields of study. Students can specialise in areas such as Manufacturing Engineering, Business Analytics, Business Economics, Engineering Management and Physics. The duration of undergraduate courses at the university is 4 years to 5 years and the duration of graduate courses is 10 months to 12 months.
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Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
The decision between the University of Texas, Austin and California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) for a B.Tech programme is based on financial constraints, personal preferences, and professional objectives. With an emphasis on experiential learning and practical experience, both universities provide excellent technology and engineering degrees. But there are a few distinctions to take into account:
1. Cost: For in-state tuition, Cal Poly is often less expensive than UT Austin.
2. Program offerings: With a concentration on cutting-edge facilities, sufficient learning resources, and seasoned experts, Cal Poly provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its five colleges. With an emphasis on research and innovation, UT Austin enjoys a solid reputation in the fields of computer Science and engineering.
3. Campus environment: Cal Poly offers a lively, hospitable, and diverse campus community.
The most popular option for Indian students attending California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) is the Master of Science in Computer Science program. The curriculum is highly favored by Indian students because to its excellent employability rate for graduates, exceptional level of instruction, experiential learning opportunities, and ample job opportunities for overseas students. Those seeking a comprehensive education in computer Science and technology management are drawn to the programme because of its stimulating coursework, wealth of research possibilities, and exceptional faculty, all of which combine to give students life-changing educational experiences.
California Polytechnic State University Admission 2026
Students seeking admission to California Polytechnic State University have to fill the online application form, submit mandatory documents and pay the application fee. California Polytechnic State University accepts some exam scores at the time of admission, including English language exams. Some of the exam scores that Indian students have to submit for admission are IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, GRE and GMAT. The documents that have to be submitted are SOP, LOR and CV.
- Application fees :USD 55 - 70
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
The decision between IIT Guwahati, India, and California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) for a B.Tech programme is based on financial constraints, personal preferences, and professional objectives.Cal Poly provides possibilities for practical research, hands-on learning, and a strong "Learn by Doing" mentality. The student body of the institution is diverse, and it emphasizes experienced faculty, up-to-date facilities, and sufficient learning tools. For overseas students, Cal Poly is typically less expensive than IIT Guwahati. Nonetheless, IIT Guwahati is frequently listed as one of India's best engineering schools. IIT Guwahati is renowned for its talented teachers, demanding academic programs, and top-notch students. When compared to other comparable universities in Western nations, the cost of attending IIT Guwahati is extremely reasonable.
Through its College of Engineering, California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) provides a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. In spite of the university's emphasis on "Learn by Doing" and its provision of opportunities for practical research, internships, and industry projects, employment experience is not a prerequisite for admission to the B.Tech program. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for admission to the hybrid bachelor's and master's degree program, which is based on academic achievement and other indicators of professional promise.Consequently, it is possible to enroll in Cal Poly's B.Tech programme without prior employment experience.
There are various ways in which applying to California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) is different from applying to other US universities. These are the main variations, according to the data at hand:
1. Application Procedure: Cal Poly uses Cal State to process online applications. Applying is open to both first-year and transfer students from October 1 through November 30. To increase their chances of being selected, students must select a major and review the selection criteria when submitting their applications.
2. Application requirements: Typically, the application calls for a transcript from high school, a college prep course load, and a high school GPA. It is not necessary nor advised to have SAT or ACT results.
3. Unless the applicant is exempt from paying an application cost, there is a $70 application fee per campus. Email is the main method of communication used during the admissions process.
Cal PolyScholarships
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Students at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) with a B.Tech have many career options after graduation, especially in computer science. Students are prepared for employment in technology, engineering, and computer Science via the university's "Learn by Doing" methodology and solid industry contacts. Leaders in the sector including Google, Microsoft, Apple, IBM, Intel, and many more actively seek out recent graduates. Among other positions, they usually hold positions as database administrators, systems analysts, computer programmers, developers, and software engineers. The university's position in California, a center of creativity and technology, gives students access to chances that could have an international influence.
10 months
Cal Poly Placements 2025
Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Students at California Polytechnic frequently look for part-time jobs in retail, food service, tutoring, and administrative support, among other industries. Some students might also discover employment in their field of study, such internships or jobs as research assistants. It's crucial for students to look into local job markets and the career services department of the institution in order to locate part-time jobs that fit their interests and skill set.
Students at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) with a B.Tech have many career options after graduation, especially in computer science. Students are prepared for employment in technology, engineering, and computer Science via the university's "Learn by Doing" methodology and solid industry contacts. Leaders in the sector including Google, Microsoft, Apple, IBM, Intel, and many more actively seek out recent graduates. Among other positions, they usually hold positions as database administrators, systems analysts, computer programmers, developers, and software engineers. The university's position in California, a center of creativity and technology, gives students access to chances that could have an international influence.
California Polytechnic State University Fees
The cost of attending California Polytechnic State University depends on the course an Indian student applies for. For UG applicants, the first-year tuition costs around USD 21,696 - 35,595. On the other hand, the annual tuition for graduates is USD 21,696 - 35,595. Other expenses are also included in the total cost of attending the university. These are hostel fees, food, books and supplies, and other personal expenses. The California Polytechnic State University cost of living is USD 11,457 - 17,220.
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(8 courses) | INR 16 L - 28 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 10 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 115 & Above, GRE, GMAT |
B.E. / B.Tech(10 courses) | INR 19 L - 28 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
MEM(1 course) | INR 24 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: GMAT, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
MBA/PGDM(3 courses) | INR 23 L - 28 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 10-24 months Exam Accepted: GMAT, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 115 & Above |
B.Arch(1 course) | INR 32 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo: 115 & Above |
B.Sc.(2 courses) | INR 28 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
BBA(1 course) | INR 28 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
M.Arch(1 course) | INR 18 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: GRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
To calculate the Indian Rupee cost of attending California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). The annual tuition and fees for in-state students are $12,924. The annual tuition and expenses for out-of-state students are $26,970.
One USD is equivalent to 82.92 Indian rupees.
For in-state students, the annual amount is $12,924 * 82.92 INR/USD = 1,068,328.8 INR.
The annual cost for out-of-state students is $26,970 * 82.92 INR/USD, or 2,218,826 INR.
When it comes to in-state tuition, California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) is often less costly than the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin). The in-state cost of tuition at Cal Poly is $11,752, while that of UT Austin is $10,610.It is important to remember, though, that the price of attending a university might change based on a number of criteria, including the programme and degree level. The total cost of attending a university can also be impacted by other costs including housing, living expenses, and other costs. It is therefore advised that prospective students, taking into account their unique demands and circumstances, investigate and contrast the expenses of attending various universities.
For California Polytechnic State University, a TOEFL score of 85 is typically regarded as good (Cal Poly). However, each programme and degree of study has a different minimum TOEFL score needed for admission to Cal Poly. Depending on the curriculum, Cal Poly requires a minimum TOEFL score ranging from 61 to 92. It's crucial to remember that admission to Cal Poly is determined by the institution taking into account additional elements including extracurricular activities, academic achievement, and personal statements in addition to the minimum TOEFL score required. Furthermore, need-based scholarships may be available to international students, helping to defray some of the expense of tuition.
Cal PolyStudent profile
Others
63%
Hispanic
21%
Asian
14%
In state
83%
Out of state
15%
Foreign
1%
24 and under
97%
25 and over
2%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
UG Enrollment
PG Enrollment
College comparison
Compare Cal Poly with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 15.98 L - 27.75 L | #1201 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 19.33 L - 46.7 L | #59 US News, 2026 | |
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| INR 48.71 L - 78.64 L | #20 US News, 2026 |
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California Polytechnic State University Campus Life
The main campus of California Polytechnic State University is located in San Luis Obispo, USA. The university offers a great campus life to its students. Students here have varied options to participate in community building. The university has organisations and clubs, in which students can participate as per their interests. On top of this, students can participate in sports and join university teams. They can also access variety of resources and services at the campus such as library, recreation centres, sports complex, placement services, among others.
Cal Poly
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 11 months ago
To have an edge or increase in getting a scholarship at California Polytechnic State University you need to maintain high scores in your college and should have the best scores on the entrance exam like having about 3.0 GPA or higher than it so that you may make it. And to add to it if you had an ex
S
Beginner-Level 4
Answered a year ago
Caly Poly campus size is 9,178 acres. This campus is the second the largest in California and of the largest in the nation. The total student body at this university is over 22,000. The student-to-faculty ratio at the university is 19:1. On top of this, according to Money magazine, Caly Poly is amon
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
Caly Poly University has a single campus only. The university’s location is midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on US Highway 101. The university has 6 colleges for academics and hands-on learning focus. These colleges are Architecture and Environmental Design; Engineering; Liberal Arts; Sc
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
Yes, Caly Poly offers housing to international students. Residence hall options are available for first-year students. Apartments option are available for graduate students. The housing cost for UG students for the academic year 2023-23 shall be USD 10,476. This is around INR 8.75 L.
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
California Polytechnic State University is centrally located in San Luis Obispo, California. The campus of this university is less than a 5-minute drive from Downtown SLO and is located within 20 minutes of beaches, including Cayucos State Beach, Avila Beach, Morro Bay, and more. In exact terms, Cal
Contributor-Level 10
About the author
Cal Poly
Campus
Campus
Building
Cal PolyLocation
| University City | San Luis Obispo, California, USA |
Cal PolyCampuses
1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 USA
Visit official siteCal PolyContact Information
1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo, California (CA) 93407
San Luis Obispo ( California)
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