Hey everyone! Cal Poly SLO is on my college list but I've heard that their acceptance rate is pretty low. Can anyone confirm? And if that's the case, what can I do to increase my chances of getting in? Are there any specific things they look for in applicants?
Absolutely, I can help with that. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo's acceptance rate has tended to hover around mid to high 20s in percentage terms. So yes, it's definitely competitive, but don't let this deter you.
To improve your chances, focus on making your application as strong as possible. Consider polishing your extracurricular profile with activities that reflect your intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and commitment. Given the high focus on its 'learn by doing' philosophy, Cal Poly SLO looks for evidence of hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities. Highlight these qualities in your personal essays wherever possible.
Academic performance is of course crucial. Cal Poly SLO uses the MCA (Multicriteria Admissions) score, where GPA and the rigor of your high school curriculum are major factors.
Lastly, make sure your major choice aligns with your demonstrated interests. Cal Poly reads applications by the college and major you apply to, so it's beneficial to have a strong narrative connecting your experiences and goals to your chosen field.
Apply these strategies, and you might find yourself in Mustang territory before you know it!
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