Cost and Aid
College is likely to be one of the most important investments you will make and could be your first significant financial obligation. With smart planning at the early stages of your education, you can help position yourself well for decades to come.
Costs of Attendance
Estimated expenses for transfer students who are California residents, living on campus, for the 2020-21 academic year are as follows. Our Costs of Attendance page has a further breakdown of what these items entail as well as expenses for non-California residents and international students.
| Service or Items | Amount |
|---|---|
| Registration Fees | $10,194 |
| Room and Meals | $16,377 |
| Books and Supplies | $888 |
| Other Miscellaneous Expenses | $2,262 |
| Total | $29,721 |
How Much You’ll Pay
Our Net Price Calculator can help you get a better estimate of your costs based on what similar students paid in a previous year.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Our Financial Aid office can help you find ways to make your university education affordable. Cal Poly offers different types of financial aid including scholarships, grants, loans, and work study opportunities. The types and amounts of aid Cal Poly will award you depends on your availability of funds, your enrollment status, and your financial need.
To be considered for most forms of financial aid and scholarships awarded by our office, you need to complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You should submit your FAFSA as soon after October 1 as possible the year before you plan to enroll. California residents who aren’t eligible to file a FAFSA but meet AB 540 Status requirements should complete the California Dream Act Application instead. Make sure you file by March 2 to maximize your potential aid opportunities.