Transferring to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly SLO) is an exciting opportunity for students seeking a well-rounded education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. With its renowned academic programs and research opportunities, Cal Poly SLO attracts thousands of transfer applicants each year. To ensure a successful transfer journey, it’s crucial to understand the application process, requirements, and timelines.
Application Process
To transfer to Cal Poly SLO, you must complete the California State University (CSU) Transfer Admission Application (TAA). The online application opens on October 1st for the following fall semester and November 1st for the following spring semester.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Completion of at least 60 transferable semester units with a minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Completion of the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or a CSU-certified General Education (GE) pattern (with a grade of “C” or higher)
- Completion of required core courses for your intended major (prerequisites may vary)
Application Timeline:
- October 1st (for fall semester) or November 1st (for spring semester): TAA opens
- November 30th: TAA priority filing deadline
- March 1st: TAA regular filing deadline
- May 1st: Application deadline for students seeking financial aid
Additional Requirements:
- Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities
- Letters of recommendation (optional)
- Personal statement or essay (optional)
Majors and Impaction
Cal Poly SLO offers a wide range of undergraduate majors in STEM fields, including engineering, computer science, agricultural sciences, and architecture. However, it’s important to note that certain majors are highly competitive and may have impaction, which means the number of available slots for transfer students is limited.
Impacted Majors (2022-2023):
- Aerospace Engineering
- Architectural Engineering
- Bioengineering
- Business Administration
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Construction Management
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Software Engineering
Selection Criteria
Cal Poly SLO’s transfer selection criteria are based on the following factors:
- GPA (overall and major-specific)
- Completion of required core courses
- Degree applicability
- GE certification
- Academic preparation and rigor
- Applicant essays or letters of recommendation (optional)
Timeline and Communication
After you submit your application, you will receive an email confirmation. You can check your application status and any required updates through the CSU Apply Portal. Admissions decisions are typically released in March and April for fall semester applicants and May and June for spring semester applicants.
Tips and Tricks
- Start the application process early and submit your TAA on or before the priority filing deadline.
- Make sure you have completed all required prerequisites and GE courses with a grade of “C” or higher.
- Highlight your academic strengths, such as a strong GPA, research experience, or extracurricular activities.
- If possible, visit Cal Poly SLO’s campus and attend transfer information events.
- Contact the transfer admissions office or your intended major department if you have any questions or concerns.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to meet the eligibility requirements (GPA, unit count, GE certification)
- Applying after the deadline
- Not completing all required core courses
- Submitting an incomplete or inaccurate application
- Neglecting to provide all necessary supporting documents (transcripts, essays)
Why Cal Poly SLO Matters
Transferring to Cal Poly SLO offers numerous benefits:
- Hands-on Learning: Cal Poly SLO emphasizes experiential learning through its “Learn by Doing” approach, providing students with practical experience in their chosen fields.
- National Recognition: Cal Poly SLO’s STEM programs are consistently ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and other reputable organizations.
- Research Opportunities: Cal Poly SLO offers undergraduate research opportunities that allow students to work with faculty on cutting-edge projects.
- Career Services: Cal Poly SLO provides comprehensive career services to help students prepare for internships, job searches, and professional development.
- Vibrant Campus Life: Cal Poly SLO offers a vibrant campus community with over 200 student clubs and organizations, Division I athletics, and a variety of social events.
Additional Resources
- Cal Poly SLO Transfer Admissions Office: https://admissions.calpoly.edu/transfer
- CSU Transfer Admission Application (TAA): https://www.calstate.edu/apply/transfer-students/Pages/transfer-application.aspx
- Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC): https://assist.org/igetc/
- CSU-Certified General Education (GE) Patterns: https://www.calstate.edu/apply/transfer-students/Pages/general-education.aspx