Overview
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt is an open admission public four-year institution in Arcata, California. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Cal Poly Humboldt accepts nearly all applicants through the Cal State application system, with a November 30 deadline for fall admission. Submit your application along with official transcripts and meet the basic CSU eligibility requirements, which include completing the A-G course pattern and earning a qualifying GPA or test score combination.
Certain programs require additional steps beyond the general application. Nursing has a separate competitive admission process with prerequisite courses you must complete before applying to the program. Engineering programs may have higher admission standards and specific math and science course requirements. Art programs typically require portfolio submissions with specific formatting guidelines and deadlines.
Apply for housing early through the university's housing portal, as on-campus options fill quickly despite the campus's remote location in Arcata. The town sits in Northern California's redwood region, hours from major cities, so plan accordingly for move-in logistics and accessing amenities you might take for granted elsewhere.
New student orientation happens during summer before your first semester and covers course registration, campus resources, and practical information about living in this small coastal community. You'll register for classes during orientation, and popular courses can fill despite the university's size.
The campus operates on the semester system and has a strong focus on environmental and natural resource programs, reflecting its location near forests, rivers, and the Pacific Ocean. Many students choose Cal Poly Humboldt specifically for outdoor recreation opportunities and environmental studies programs that take advantage of the surrounding environment.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $13,167/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $7,913
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $19,793
- Students Receiving Aid
- 46%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 46.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $47,626/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 75.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt?
Cal Poly Humboldt uses the CSU application system with a November 30 deadline for fall admission. Spring applications are typically due by August 31.
Does California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt require SAT or ACT scores?
Cal Poly Humboldt is test-optional and does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Students can choose whether to submit test scores as part of their application.
How do I transfer to California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt?
Transfer students need at least 60 transferable semester units and must complete specific general education requirements. California community college students with an ADT degree receive priority consideration.
What GPA do you need for California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt?
Cal Poly Humboldt requires a minimum 2.0 GPA for California residents and 2.45 GPA for non-residents. Higher GPAs may be required for impacted programs like Computer Science.