California Institute of Technology logo

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA, USA · Ranking #8

The California Institute of Technology (Caltech), founded in 1891 in Pasadena, California, is a world-renowned private research university specializing in science and engineering. Caltech is known for its small community, rigorous academics, and emphasis on cutting-edge research in fields like physics, aerospace, computer science, and biology. The institute fosters a collaborative environment with a low student-to-faculty ratio and close mentorship by leading researchers. Caltech’s proximity to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and strong industry connections provide students with exceptional opportunities for research internships and professional development. Its graduates are highly sought after in academia and industry worldwide.

California Institute of Technology logo

California Institute of Technology

About the university

The California Institute of Technology (Caltech), founded in 1891 in Pasadena, California, is a world-renowned private research university specializing in science and engineering. Caltech is known for its small community, rigorous academics, and emphasis on cutting-edge research in fields like physics, aerospace, computer science, and biology. The institute fosters a collaborative environment with a low student-to-faculty ratio and close mentorship by leading researchers. Caltech’s proximity to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and strong industry connections provide students with exceptional opportunities for research internships and professional development. Its graduates are highly sought after in academia and industry worldwide.

Key information

  • Location: Pasadena, CA, USA
  • Ranking #8
  • QS #10
  • THE #6
  • US News #7
  • Institution type: private

Popular faculties

  • Division of Physics
  • Mathematics and Astronomy; Division of Engineering and Applied Science; Division of Biology and Biological Engineering; Geological and Planetary Sciences; Computing and Mathematical Sciences

Programs (22)

  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Computer Science
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Dentistry
  • Veterinary Science
  • Psychology
  • Civil Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Telecommunications
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Engineering
  • Data Science
  • Environmental Science

Student body

  • Total students: 2,400
  • Undergraduate: 987
  • Graduate: 1,400
  • International students: 27%

Campus life

Caltech’s campus life is collaborative, tight-knit, and academically intense. Most students live in one of the residential houses with strong traditions, social events, and house competitions fostering community. There are 150+ student clubs and organizations covering academic interests, arts, culture, and social causes. Athletics include intramural and club sports, with many students engaging in recreational activities alongside research projects. The Pasadena campus has historic buildings, gardens, and easy access to cultural venues, innovation companies, and outdoor activities in Southern California.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $1,010 - $2,200 / per month

Housing options

  • Undergraduate houses (8 student houses)
  • Graduate housing (Catalina, Del Mar)
  • Off-campus apartments in Pasadena
  • Family housing

Student clubs and organizations

  • Caltech Robotics Team
  • Caltech Racing (Formula SAE)
  • Theater Arts (TACIT)
  • Caltech Y (service)
  • Dabney Hovse
  • Solar Army
  • Caltech Jazz Band

Sports

  • Basketball
  • Swimming
  • Tennis
  • Cross Country
  • Fencing
  • Water Polo
  • Baseball
  • Track & Field
  • Soccer
  • Volleyball

Career & internships

Employment rate: 94%

Partner companies

  • Google
  • Microsoft
  • SpaceX
  • Apple
  • NASA/JPL
  • Amazon
  • Tesla — these global tech and aerospace companies regularly recruit Caltech graduates through career fairs and collaborations.

Internships: Caltech supports internships mainly for enrolled students through the Career Development Center and research labs. Many students secure internships with tech companies, labs, or research institutions during summer or academic breaks. Pre-college internship programs before admission are generally not offered, but research experiences may be available through official summer programs or external initiatives.

Admission requirements

Required tests

  • SAT
  • ACT
  • TOEFL
  • IELTS

Required documents

  • Completed application form
  • Academic transcripts
  • Standardized test scores (if required)
  • English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement/essays
  • CV (for graduate)
  • Application fee

Minimum GPA: 3.98

Tuition costs

  • $60,000 - $66,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 2.50%
  • Scholarships available: Caltech provides need-based financial aid for undergraduate students, meeting 100 % of demonstrated financial need through grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. Merit-based scholarships are not offered, but external awards can be applied. International students may qualify for need-based aid, though Caltech is need-aware for them.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1891
  • Teaching languages: English
  • Study formats: offline

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