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Colleges / CA / San Luis Obispo
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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Public San Luis Obispo, CA · Suburban · Far West · 93% data reported · Agent Insights
86%
Graduation Rate
$90,768
Earnings (10yr)
$16,665
Net Price
31%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has an impressive graduation rate of 86%. This high rate indicates strong student support and engagement, contributing to a successful academic environment. With nearly 22,000 students, Cal Poly combines a vibrant campus life with a commitment to academic excellence.

Graduates from Cal Poly earn a median salary of $90,768 ten years post-graduation. This figure reflects the effectiveness of the university's programs in preparing students for the workforce. Although the Pell Grant rate is 19%, the university's focus on practical, career-oriented education significantly enhances economic mobility for many students.

The cost of attendance is relatively affordable, with a net price of $16,665 and a median debt of $18,500. This financial structure positions Cal Poly as a viable option for students seeking quality education without overwhelming debt. Students who thrive here are often those interested in fields like engineering, business, and computer science, where hands-on experience and industry connections are paramount.

Rankings

How California Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation86%Earnings 10yr$91KNet Price$17KRetention96%Median Debt$19KPell Grant Rate19%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$8K$0-30K$7K$30-48K$10K$48-75K$28K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$13,596
In-State Tuition
$34,665
Out-of-State
$16,665
Avg Net Price
$18,500
Median Debt
19%
Pell Grant Rate
25%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$7,529
Family Income $0–$30K
$7,253
Family Income $30K–$48K
$9,896
Family Income $48K–$75K
$27,772
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$72,358
6 Years After Entry
$82,835
8 Years
$90,768
10 Years
0.2x
Debt-to-Earnings
79%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$72,358 6yr $82,835 8yr $90,768 10yr

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.85
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.01
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
7.0%
Volunteering Rate
0.99
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 31%
Retention Rate 96%
Full-Time Faculty 69%
Faculty Salary (mo) $12,673
Diversity Index 0.68
First-Gen Students 25%

Top Programs

Engineering 21%
Business & Marketing 18%
Social Sciences 5%
Computer Science & IT 4%
Biology & Biomedical 4%
Communications 3%
Psychology 3%
Mathematics & Statistics 2%