Instructionally Related Activities
What is an IRA?
An Instructionally Related Activity (IRA) is an "out-of-class experience" that provides enrichment to students and enhances their learning at Cal Poly. Funding for recognized IRAs is provided through student fees. All IRA programs/activities are "integrally related" to a formal instructional program and provide Learn By Doing opportunities. For more information and limitations, see Title 5 California Education Code Section 89230.
Interested in the difference between an RSO (Club) and an IRA? View a PowerPoint presentation on the topic as a PDF.
General IRA Information
- List of Recognized IRA Programs
- Criteria for IRA Recognition
- Expenditure Guidelines
- Frequently Asked Questions
- IRA Resource and Operations Guide
2026-27 Allocations
Call for 2027-28 Proposals
The call for new and continuing IRA proposals for the 2027-28 year will go out in August 2026, with new IRA proposals to be due in early October, and continuing IRA proposals to be due in mid-November.
Please note that any IRA wishing to remain in active and continuing status for 2027-28 must be approved during the continuing IRA proposal process, even if it is not requesting funding.
Proposers of potential new activities are encouraged to research those IRAs already operating on campus. (Please see the List of Recognized IRA Programs linked above.) If a similar activity already exists, please contact the existing IRA advisor and discuss the possibility of collaboration.
Contacts
Need help? Have questions? Contact Academic Programs and Planning at acadprog@calpoly.edu.
Additional Information
- IRA Advisory Committee membership 2025-26
- Charge of the IRA Advisory Committee (rev. 2015)
- Title 5 California Education Code Section 89230
- CSU Executive Order No. 429 - Instructionally Related Activities Fee (1983)
Updated: 6/9/26