Humboldt State University, now known as Cal Poly Humboldt, located in Arcata, California, has a reputation for accessible yet competitive admissions. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), the university reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 89.1%, based on historical data and trends from the California State University system. This rate reflects a moderately selective process influenced by factors such as a growing applicant pool, increased interest in sustainability-focused programs, and regional demand for higher education. While Cal Poly Humboldt does not always publish detailed admission statistics for each cycle, historical data from the Common Data Set and the university’s official admissions website (admissions.humboldt.edu) provide a reliable foundation for understanding selectivity.
Over the past few years, Cal Poly Humboldt’s acceptance rate has remained relatively stable, hovering between 85% and 92%, indicating consistent accessibility compared to more selective institutions in the California State University system, such as Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (around 30%). The university’s focus on environmental studies and liberal arts continues to attract a diverse applicant pool, though competitiveness may increase slightly as its rebranding to Cal Poly Humboldt draws more attention. International student admissions face additional scrutiny due to visa and language requirements, potentially lowering their acceptance rates compared to domestic applicants. Compared to peer institutions, Cal Poly Humboldt remains less selective, prioritizing regional access over exclusivity, which aligns with its mission as a public university.
