California State Polytechnic University-Pomona
The Vibe Check
Cal Poly Pomona feels like a hands-on workshop where theory immediately meets practice, set against a stunning backdrop of rolling hills and the iconic CLA building. The campus vibe is collaborative and project-focused, with a diverse student body that's driven but grounded. You'll sense a strong 'learn-by-doing' ethos that permeates everything from engineering labs to business case studies.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Cal Poly Pomona is renowned for its 'learn-by-doing' philosophy, particularly in engineering, agriculture, and architecture. The university offers robust research and internship opportunities, often in partnership with nearby industries in the LA basin. Class sizes are manageable, allowing for meaningful interaction with professors who emphasize practical application over pure theory.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Pomona
Student life revolves around a vibrant campus with over 300 clubs, NCAA Division II sports, and a legendary annual PolyCultural Weekend. For off-campus fun, students often head to the nearby Claremont Village for cafes and shops, explore downtown Pomona's arts scene, or take a short drive to enjoy LA's beaches, museums, and nightlife.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($71,902):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe with its own police department and well-lit pathways, though standard urban safety precautions are advised. The surrounding Pomona area has typical city complexities but is well-patrolled, and students often stay within the campus community or travel to nearby Claremont for entertainment.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ The 'learn-by-doing' approach provides practical, real-world skills highly valued by employers.
- ✓ Strong industry connections in the LA area lead to excellent internship and job placement opportunities.
- ✓ Affordable tuition for California residents offers a high-quality education without massive debt.
- ✓ A beautiful and expansive campus with state-of-the-art facilities for hands-on learning.
Cons
- ✗ The sprawling, hilly campus can require a lot of walking between classes.
- ✗ As a large commuter school, campus life can feel less integrated compared to smaller residential colleges.
- ✗ The location in Pomona is not as walkable as a traditional college town and often requires a car for off-campus exploration.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Cal Poly Pomona is best known for its 'learn-by-doing' educational philosophy, which emphasizes hands-on, practical experience in all its programs. It is particularly renowned for its College of Engineering, College of Agriculture, and the iconic architecture program. The university's iconic Building 8 (theCLA) is a world-famous example of architectural design.
With an acceptance rate of 73.7%, Cal Poly Pomona is moderately selective. Admission is not guaranteed and is competitive, especially for popular majors like computer science and engineering. The primary factor for admission is your GPA in the required 'a-g' courses, so strong academic performance in high school is crucial.
Campus life is dynamic and diverse, with a large student population and over 300 student organizations. While many students commute, there are strong residential communities and numerous campus events, from sports games to cultural festivals. The setting is suburban, offering a mix of quiet study spots and active social hubs.
Absolutely. For California residents, the return on investment is excellent. With a net price of around $11,580 and median graduate earnings of $71,902 after ten years, the degree provides significant financial value. The practical skills and industry connections gained often lead to strong employment outcomes right after graduation.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1957
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 26,692
- In-State Tuition $7,439
- Out-of-State $19,319
- Zip Code 91768
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state net price of around $11,580 and median earnings of $71,902 a decade after graduation, Cal Poly Pomona offers a fantastic return on investment. The combination of low tuition for California residents and strong graduate earnings makes it a financially savvy choice, especially for STEM and business majors. The high Pell Grant rate also indicates a strong commitment to supporting students from diverse economic backgrounds.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.