Caltech
California Institute of Technology · Pasadena, California · Private
Caltech admitted 3.8% of 11,285 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1550–1580 in the middle half. Test scores are required. 93% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at Caltech
Enter a score to see whether Caltech is a reach, target or likely school for you.
It admits 3.8% of applicants, so it’s a reach for everyone, even with perfect scores.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more.
Early decision and early action
Caltech offers restrictive early action but didn’t report its early admit rate.
263 students were offered a spot on the waitlist, 211 took it, and 1 were admitted from it.
What admissions weighs
How Caltech rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- Course rigor
- Test scores
- Essay
- Recommendations
- Character
Important
- Class rank
- GPA
- Activities
Considered
- Talent or ability
- First generation
- Where you live
- Volunteering
- Work experience
Not considered
- Interview
- Legacy
- State residency
- Religion
- Showing interest
What it costs
Full price with housing is $86,886 a year. After grants, students paid $23,397 on average.
Average price after grants, by family income:
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