Cal Poly Again Ranked No. 1 in the Nation for Study Abroad Participation

California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) San Luis Obispo has once again been ranked No. 1 in the nation among master’s-level institutions for study abroad participation, according to the Institute of International Education’s (IIE) Open Doors Report for the 2023-24 academic year, the university announced on November 20, 2025. 

The university said this marks its third consecutive year, and fourth time overall, earning the top national ranking.

Cal Poly is also one of the only three master’s-level institutions in California to receive this distinction, the university said. 

In addition to its top spot, Cal Poly also placed second in the country for long-term study abroad, first for mid-term programs, and third for short-term programs among peer institutions. 

Cal Poly’s students continue to view international study, research, and internship opportunities as significant components of their studies, said Cari Vanderkar, assistant vice provost for international programs and senior international officer at Cal Poly.

“These high-impact experiences bring Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy to life in a global context and are foundational for their future careers,” Vanderkar said. 

The recognition reflects the commitment of the university’s staff, faculty, and supporters who continually work to expand efforts to broaden access to these “transformative learning opportunities,” Vanderkar added.

According to the Open Doors Report, 1,188 Cal Poly students studied abroad between fall 2023 and summer 2024, according to the statement. The International Center recorded more than 1,250 student experiences in 37 countries, led by Spain and Italy and followed by the U.K., Denmark, Japan, South Korea, and Australia. 

Since 2000, Cal Poly has maintained its rank among the leading institutions in the U.S. for study abroad participation at the master’s-level, the university said. 

The Open Doors Report also finds that the diversity of students participating in study abroad programs has increased. 

Over the last 10 years, the volume of students from historically underrepresented racial and ethnic groups has surged to 34% from 24%. This highlights the sustained progress towards more access and inclusion in global education opportunities, Cal Poly said.

The Open Doors Report has been conducted since 1919 and is supported by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The research includes responses from over 2,000 colleges and universities in the nation. 

Held every year in mid-November, the International Education Week celebrates the benefits of international education and exchange around the world.

Cal Poly is marking the International Education Week with campus events celebrating global engagement and cultural exchange. 

Founded in 1901, Cal Poly has been part of the California State University system since 1960 and is a nationally ranked public university in San Luis Obispo.