Mechanical Engineering Acceptance Rate at Cal Poly?

Hello! I'm a junior and I've been researching Cal Poly's mechanical engineering program. I wanted to know if the acceptance rate for their engineering program is different from the overall acceptance rate at the school. Any info would be helpful!

Hello! You're right to notice that acceptance rates can vary by major, and that's the case at Cal Poly as well. While I don't have the exact acceptance rate for the mechanical engineering program, I can give you some insights into their selective admissions process.

Cal Poly is known for its strong engineering programs, so they tend to be more competitive than other majors at the school. The overall acceptance rate at Cal Poly has been around 30% in recent years, but the acceptance rate for engineering majors, including mechanical engineering, typically falls below that percentage. The exact acceptance rate for mechanical engineering varies from year to year depending on the number of applicants and the strength of the applicant pool.

In order to improve your chances, it's essential to demonstrate strong academic performance, especially in math and science coursework. Cal Poly places a significant emphasis on high school grades, so aim to have a competitive GPA. Admissions officers will also consider other criteria such as the coursework you’ve completed (high-level math and science classes are a plus), and any relevant extracurricular activities or work experience. Remember, since Cal State schools are test-blind, standardized test scores will not be reviewed.

In summary, while the overall acceptance rate at Cal Poly is around 30%, the acceptance rate for mechanical engineering is expected to be lower due to the program's competitiveness. To increase your chances, focus on maintaining a high GPA, taking challenging courses, and participating in relevant extracurriculars.

Best of luck!