I will add a couple anecdotal observations to the “When to apply?” question.
My two children applied to Cal Poly in 2017 and in 2020. Both are attending now.
My son, with some prodding from me and mom, finished sometime in late October or early November. He was informed of his acceptance into Cal Poly at the exact same time as everyone else who was In-State and a Liberal Arts major.
My daughter, who is NOT like her brother, had her applications done in the first week of October, and it was only my wanting to double check it that kept it from going out in the first four days. She was informed of her acceptance into Cal Poly at the exact same time as everyone else who was In-State and in CAFES.
This year will be different than every other year, so take these stories for what they are worth.