What matters most when applying to Cal Poly for an engineering major?

Question

I’m a high school junior who is interested in applying to Cal Poly for engineering, and I know it can be more competitive than applying undeclared. I’m trying to understand what parts of an application are most important for engineering specifically.

I have solid grades and math/science classes, but I want to know what Cal Poly tends to value most for engineering applicants so I can focus on the right things before I apply.

Accepted Answer

For Cal Poly engineering, the biggest factors are your academics, especially GPA in college-prep courses, the rigor of your schedule, and strong performance in math and science.

What usually helps most is a transcript that shows sustained strength in math through precalculus or calculus if available, lab sciences like physics and chemistry, and solid grades across all A-G courses. For engineering, physics is especially valuable, and computer science can help if your school offers it, though math and core science are usually more important.

Activities still matter, but most when they show clear interest and follow-through, such as robotics, coding projects, engineering clubs, math team, maker work, internships, or relevant jobs.

What matters most when applying to Cal Poly for an engineering major?

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