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California Institute of Technology

· Pasadena

California Institute of Technology

Private School
Country
Pasadena
City
2369
Total Students
Private
Status
About the University

California Institute of Technology overview

The California Institute of Technology, commonly referred to as Caltech, is a private research university located in Pasadena, California. Founded in 1891 as Throop University, it was renamed Caltech in 1920. The institution has a strong focus on science and engineering and is internationally renowned for its cutting-edge research and top-tier faculty. Caltech offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, primarily focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Its most notable divisions include Biology and Biological Engineering, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Engineering and Applied Science, Geological and Planetary Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy.

Caltech has a relatively small student body, with approximately 1,000 undergraduate students and 1,200 graduate students. This small size fosters a close-knit community and allows for more individualized attention and mentoring from faculty. Caltech has a distinguished list of faculty and alumni, including numerous Nobel laureates, Turing Award winners, and Fields Medalists. The institution's researchers have made significant contributions to various fields, such as the discovery of the laws governing the universe, advancements in nanotechnology, and the development of the Internet. 

Caltech manages or has partnerships with several world-class research facilities, including the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), the Palomar Observatory, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), and the Keck Observatory. These facilities enable researchers to pursue groundbreaking discoveries in various scientific disciplines. Caltech operates under an Honor Code, which allows for a high level of academic freedom and collaboration among students. The Honor Code is based on the principle that students will not take unfair advantage of one another and will act with integrity in their academic and personal lives. Caltech's campus is located in Pasadena, a city in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. The beautiful and compact campus features state-of-the-art research facilities, well-equipped libraries, and a vibrant residential community, with a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and cultural events.

About the University

About California Institute of Technology

The California Institute of Technology, commonly referred to as Caltech, is a private research university located in Pasadena, California. Founded in 1891 as Throop University, it was renamed Caltech in 1920. The institution has a strong focus on science and engineering and is internationally renowned for its cutting-edge research and top-tier faculty. Caltech offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, primarily focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Its most notable divisions include Biology and Biological Engineering, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Engineering and Applied Science, Geological and Planetary Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy.

Caltech has a relatively small student body, with approximately 1,000 undergraduate students and 1,200 graduate students. This small size fosters a close-knit community and allows for more individualized attention and mentoring from faculty. Caltech has a distinguished list of faculty and alumni, including numerous Nobel laureates, Turing Award winners, and Fields Medalists. The institution's researchers have made significant contributions to various fields, such as the discovery of the laws governing the universe, advancements in nanotechnology, and the development of the Internet.

Caltech manages or has partnerships with several world-class research facilities, including the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), the Palomar Observatory, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), and the Keck Observatory. These facilities enable researchers to pursue groundbreaking discoveries in various scientific disciplines. Caltech operates under an Honor Code, which allows for a high level of academic freedom and collaboration among students. The Honor Code is based on the principle that students will not take unfair advantage of one another and will act with integrity in their academic and personal lives. Caltech's campus is located in Pasadena, a city in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. The beautiful and compact campus features state-of-the-art research facilities, well-equipped libraries, and a vibrant residential community, with a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and cultural events.

City
Pasadena
Type
Private
Number of Students
2369
#7
Times Universities
#10
QS World
#11
National Ranking
95
Quality Score
#9
Shanghai List
Faculties & Programs

California Institute of Technology faculties and programs

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Scholarship Opportunities

California Institute of Technology scholarships and financial aid

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) offers financial aid to international students in the form of scholarships and grants. Caltech is committed to making education accessible to students from diverse backgrounds, including international students. Caltech practices a need-based financial aid policy and meets 100% of the demonstrated financial need for both domestic and international students who are admitted to the university. Financial aid packages for international students typically consist of a combination of grants and scholarships, which do not need to be repaid. To apply for financial aid, international students are required to submit the International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) and other relevant documents, such as tax returns and bank statements. These documents help the university assess the family's financial situation and calculate the expected family contribution (EFC). It is important for international students to indicate their interest in financial aid while applying for admission to Caltech, as financial aid is awarded as part of the admission process. Once a student is admitted and qualifies for financial aid, their package will be tailored to meet their demonstrated need.

California Institute of Technology Exam Requirements

Submitting at least one of the exams below with the required score is a prerequisite for application. The score threshold may vary by program.

IB Diploma
44
Min. score
ACT
35
Min. score
GRE
330
Min. score
Diploma Note
95
Min. score
SAT
1560
Min. score
GMAT
500
Min. score
IELTS
7
Min. score
TOEFL
100
Min. score
University GPA
3.5
Min. score
Duolingo
130
Min. score
Application Process

How to get into California Institute of Technology

Admission Requirements for International Students

Undergraduate

Application Materials

  • Common App or QuestBridge Application
  • Application Fee
  • School Report
  • Teacher Evaluations
  • Official Transcripts from Secondary School
  • Mid-Year Report

Academic Requirements

  • Successful completion of basic education
  • High School Diploma
    • Proficiency in the following subjects:
      • Four years of math, including one year of calculus
      • One year of physics
      • One year of chemistry
      • One year of biology (recommended)
      • Four years of English
      • Two years of history and/or social sciences courses (3+ years recommended)
    • In case a student has no access to calculus, chemistry, and/or physics courses in high school, then the following examinations and certificates can be used in lieu of said courses:
      • A score of 5 on AP exams in AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, or AP Physics C
      • A score of 6 or 7 on the IB Mathematics HL; Chemistry SL or HL; or Physics SL or HL examinations.
    • HL Math for IB Students
    • A-Level Maths for GCE A-Level Students
  • Certificate in English Proficiency
    • Certificate in English proficiency received through internationally recognized proficiency tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic.
  • High Grade Point Average
  • SAT or ACT Standardized Test Score (optional)
  • Supplemental Application Essays

Graduate

  • Bachelor's Degree Diploma
  • High Grade Point Average
  • Official transcripts of the courses taken by the applicant during college/university education
  • Work experience may be required for certain programs
  • Certificate in English Proficiency
    • Certificate in English proficiency received through internationally recognized proficiency tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT.
  • GRE/GMAT exam score may be required in accordance with the specific admission requirements of certain programs.

Application Deadlines

KASIM2027
Application deadline
ARALIK2027
Application deadline

* These dates are subject to change. Get in touch with our Dream Uni advisors to learn the up-to-date deadlines and all the details about the California Institute of Technology application process.

Campus

Take a closer look at California Institute of Technology

The school itself is noted for its beautiful beauty and distinct architectural style, providing students and faculty members with a stimulating atmosphere. The campus is around 124 acres in size, with plenty of room for instructional buildings, research facilities, administrative offices, student homes, and recreational spaces. The architecture of Caltech is a blend of Mediterranean Revival, Spanish, and Modern styles. Many of the older structures have elaborate detailing, red-tile roofs, and stucco facades. The most modern structures on campus have a clean, minimalist appearance. 

The Beckman Institute, named after scientist and benefactor Arnold O. Beckman, is a multidisciplinary research center that focuses on research in biology, chemistry, and engineering. The architect Harry Weese created the structure, which is renowned for its significant use of glass and geometric architectural features. Millikan Library, named for Nobel laureate Robert A. Millikan, is a major library that provides students and professors with a multitude of resources, including an enormous collection of books, periodicals, and electronic resources. It is also a popular place for study and cooperation. The Athenaeum, a private club, acts as a gathering space for teachers, employees, and alumni for official and casual activities. The Athenaeum, designed by architect Gordon Kaufmann, displays magnificent Spanish-style architecture and includes eating facilities, a library, and guest rooms. Turtle Pond, a picturesque site near the Millikan Library, includes a peaceful pond inhabited by turtles and surrounded by lush greenery. Students frequent it for leisure and study. 

Caltech's eight undergraduate houses serve as social centres for the student body as well as living quarters. Each home has its own customs, culture, and architectural style. The school features a variety of athletic facilities, including the Braun Athletic Center, Zollner Stadium, tennis courts, and a swimming pool, among others. Caltech is devoted to environmental sustainability, and many efforts, such as energy-efficient buildings, solar panel installations, and water conservation measures, have been implemented across campus.

Campus Life

Campus life at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) provides students with a dynamic, interesting, and collaborative environment. While academics and research are the major focus at Caltech, there are several chances for students to participate in extracurricular activities, mingle, and unwind. Undergraduate students often reside in one of the eight on-campus homes, which serve as both living spaces and social hubs. Each home has its own culture, customs, and social gatherings. Friendly rivalries between the houses promote a strong feeling of friendship. 

Caltech has a vast range of clubs and organizations for students to join, including robotics, debate, community service, music, theater, and much more. These groups allow students to explore their interests outside of the classroom while also developing leadership abilities. Although Caltech is most recognized for its academics, the institution also has varsity and club athletics for students who want to participate in sports. Caltech participates in NCAA Division III sports, and students can engage in basketball, soccer, swimming, and track & field. There are also intramural and club sports offered, which encourage friendly rivalry among students. 

Caltech offers a number of yearly events and distinctive customs that enrich campus life. Ditch Day, in which seniors plan intricate pranks for underclassmen to solve; the Interhouse Party, in which each residential house organizes themed parties; and Prefrosh Weekend, in which prospective students may sample life on campus, are some examples. Caltech offers a variety of services to assist students in their academic and personal success. The Caltech Counseling Center provides individual counseling, group therapy, and stress management and mental health programs. Academic support services, including tutoring and study techniques seminars, are provided through the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Outreach (CTLO). Caltech is dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming campus community. The Center for Diversity is committed to creating a welcoming atmosphere for underrepresented and marginalized students by providing resources, initiatives, and events that celebrate and foster understanding. Caltech's location in Pasadena, California, provides students with easy access to the city's dynamic eating, shopping, and cultural attractions. 

Furthermore, its closeness to Los Angeles gives several chances for internships, entertainment, and networking. Overall, campus life at Caltech provides students with a rich and diverse experience, balancing demanding academics with a friendly, engaging atmosphere that supports personal growth and discovery.

Student Profile

California Institute of Technology has produced many notable alumni in various fields. Some of the most well-known and accomplished alumni of California Institute of Technology include:

  • William Shockley
  • Vernon Smith
  • Stephen Wolfram
  • Stanislav Smirnov
  • Regina E. Dugan
  • Qian Xuesen
  • Mustafa A.G. Abushagur
  • Kip Thorne
  • John McCarthy
  • John Clauser
  • Harrison Schmitt
  • Gordon Moore
  • Frank Capra
  • France A. Córdova
  • Fernando J. Corbató
  • Eric Betzig
  • Edwin McMillan
  • Douglas D. Osheroff
  • Donald Knuth
  • Charlie Munger
  • Carver Mead
  • Carolyn Porco
  • Carl David Anderson
  • C. Gordon Fullerton
  • Benoit Mandelbrot
  • Arnold Orville Beckman
  • Ardem Patapoutian
Living

California Institute of Technology cost of living

Achievements

California Institute of Technology awards and achievements

Williams College has many prominent alumni, including;

  • 46 Nobel Laureates
  • 64 National Medal of Science Recipients
  • 13 National Medal of Technology and Innovation Recipients
  • 42 MacArthur Fellows
  • 17 Wolf Prize Recipients
  • 6 Breakthrough Prize Recipients
  • 9 Crafoord Laureates
  • 1 Fields Medal Recipient
  • 9 Kavli Prize Recipients

California Institute of Technology Frequently Asked Questions

Where is California Institute of Technology?
The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is located in Pasadena, California, United States of America. The university campus is located in the San Gabriel Valley, about 18 km northeast of downtown Los Angeles.
How can I apply to California Institute of Technology?
Before applying, make sure your academic interests line up with the courses and research possibilities available by becoming familiar with the programs offered at Caltech. Make sure you satisfy the prerequisites for overseas students' general admission, including English language competence (TOEFL or IELTS scores) and successful completion of secondary education (equivalent to a US high school certificate). You need to create an account on online application platforms. Caltech accepts applications over Common App, Coalition App and QuestBridge. After creating an account on one of the application platforms, you should complete the application form online, including personal information, academic history, and extracurricular activities. Please note that Caltech asks all students to answer specific questions, some of which require you to write essays. You will also need evaluations from two of your teachers in different subjects, preferably STEM fields. Submit your SAT or ACT scores, along with any relevant SAT Subject Test or AP scores. Note that Caltech may have specific score requirements for different subjects. International applicants must also provide their TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.
What are the programs offered at California Institute of Technology?
California Institute of Technology consists of 6 academic divisions including Biology & Biological Engineering, Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Engineering & Applied Science, Geological & Planetary Science, Humanities & Social Sciences and Physics, Mathematics & Astronomy. These divisions offer majors and minors which include but not limited to Applied and Computational Mathematics, Applied Physics, Astrophysics, Bioengineering, Biology, Business, Economics, and Management, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering (Biomolecular), Chemical Engineering (Computational), Chemical Engineering (Materials), Chemical Engineering (Process Systems), Chemical Engineering (Sustainability), Chemistry, Computation and Neural Systems, Computer Science, Economics, Electrical Engineering, Engineering and Applied Science, English, Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Science and Engineering (Chemistry), Environmental Science and Engineering (Physics), Geobiology, Geochemistry, Geology, Geophysics, History, History and Philosophy of Science, Information and Data Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies Program, Materials Science, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Philosophy, Physics, Planetary Science and Political Science.
How can I gain admission to California Institute of Technology?
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a highly selective institution with a rigorous application process. There is no formula for gaining admission to California Institute of Technology. There are, however, certain steps to guide you through the admissions process. We highly recommend you to learn about the programs, values, and requirements of Caltech before submitting an application. Caltech has high academic expectations for its students. Excel in your high school or secondary school education, focusing on subjects such as mathematics, science, and English. Caltech students are held to rigorous academic standards. Concentrate on courses such as mathematics, physics, and English in high school or secondary school. Even though many colleges and universities in the US adopted a test-blind policy, we still strongly recommend you to sit standardized tests as your test scores may help you to get ahead of your peers during the admissions process. In addition, your academic success, especially in STEM-related courses, a high grade point average, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL) scores, the rigor of the courses you have taken during high school education or as part of IB or AP programs, extracurricular activities you have participated in, especially in your areas of interest, any awards you have won, letters of recommendation from your teachers and mentors, your essays (Personal Statement/Essay) and finally your success in the interview will make you competitive applicant.

California Institute of Technology Location

Pasadena

California Institute of Technology Contact

Email
ugadmissions@caltech.edu
Phone
+1 (626) 395-6811
Website
https://www.caltech.edu
Address
1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91125, USA

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How to Get Into California Institute of Technology

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Why California Institute of Technology?

Located in Pasadena, , California Institute of Technology is known for its academic excellence, distinguished faculty, and remarkably rich history.
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