Supporting Student Success

Study 25-35 Hours per Week

One of the greatest challenges of students entering college is realizing how much time they need to study. In high school, you were in class 35 hours a week and did about 5 hours of homework for a total of 40 hours per week. In college, you will only be in class 15- 20 hours per week, and college is more challenging than high school. You will need to do a lot more learning on your own. To succeed at Cal Poly, you need to study two hours per unit per week, or 25-35 hours per week. That's 40-50 total hours per week, which is similar to high school and the equivalent of a full-time job.

Student Services: Advising and Student Support

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Planning for success will help you get the most from your Cal Poly education. Academic advisors meet one on one with students in the Bailey College of Science & Mathematics, as well as any student interested in pursuing a health profession. See an advisor for class planning, graduation evaluation, course articulation (credit from another university, community college, or abroad), and assistance with health profession planning including application details, prerequisites, and practice interviews.

Learn more at our Student Services website

Transfer Students can find resources from Student Services here.  

Pre-Health Professions Advising

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Pre-health peer advisors are available for walk-in appointments throughout the week.  Our advisors help students navigate the prerequisites, entrance exams and applications associated with health profession schools. Visit us early to plan for attaining relevant experiences and other essentials to become a competitive applicant. 

Learn more on the pre-health professions website

Student Clubs

The college offers a number of clubs, including social and pre-professional clubs. Discover your passion and Learn by Doing alongside fellow students and active faculty.

Learn more about student clubs

Guides for Student Success

• Academic Success Guide