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Cal Poly’s military-friendly campus offers an enthusiastic and supportive community for all veterans, service members, and our large group of military-dependent students. The Center for Military-Connected Students (CMCS) is a central hub of information and support. We strive to provide comprehensive assistance to all military-connected students. The CMCS is dedicated to offering a range of services tailored to your specific needs, including academic advising, resources, and a supportive community of fellow military-connected students who understand the military lifestyle. Our dedicated team supports students in accessing all military education benefits and is your connection to a multitude of campus and community resources. Start by checking out our helpful website pages, drop by our virtual center (see hours below), email us, or stop in our beautiful new space in Bldg 58, Room 109A (the Welding Building, in front of the Police Department. 

Newly Admitted Students and Continuing Students with New Benefits - please fill out this form

We are committed to providing a supportive and welcoming environment for all military-connected students. We understand the unique needs and challenges that you may face, and we are here to assist you every step of the way.

Upon accepting an offer of admission, visit our New Student page for your to-do list

Newly Admitted Students and Continuing Students with New Benefits - please fill out this form

Click this link to join our VIRTUAL CENTER  - Open 8 am to 5 pm Monday-Friday for walk-in questions and appointments.

The CMCS is located in Bldg 58, Room 109A (the Welding Building, in front of the Police Department, open 8 am to 7pm Monday -Friday.  Click here for a map to locate us! 

Submit after hours questions here

Become an integral part of our mission by donating to crucial veteran services. Your contribution, regardless of size, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the services we provide and enriching the overall experience of our military-connected students. 

The high cost of living in San Luis Obispo often creates financial challenges for military-affiliated students. Additionally, our students often experience significant delays in funding and accessing their VA and state military education benefits leaving them without income or at a severely decreased income while pursuing the educational goals. This can lead to significant difficulties in meeting their most basic needs. Housing and food insecurity are the largest issues we see in military-connected students currently. 

• Free Food Pantry: We actively address these challenges through our center’s free food pantry. Students can easily come by and grab a snack or quick meal, no questions asked, reducing the chance that military-connected students avoid using the available services due to stigma. Our free food pantry stands as a vital resource, recognized as the most active satellite pantry on campus.
• Meals & Resources: We also provide many opportunities for a meal during our resource workshops and other events designed to provide students with information about campus and community support while  for their well-being.
• New Initiatives: As we have seen the level of need grow tremendously post-COVID, we hope to expand our efforts by providing meal vouchers, grocery cards and emergency grants. With homelessness among students on the rise, your support ensures we bridge this gap effectively.

Link to: Our Crowdfunding Campaign