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California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a private university in Pasadena, United States, founded in 1891, with about 2,400 students. Tuition is around USD 63,402–65,622 a year (2025-26).
- Type
- Private university
- Location
- Pasadena, United States
- Founded
- 1891
- Students
- 2,401
- International students
- 30%
- Tuition
- USD 63,402–65,622 / year (2025-26)
- Acceptance rate
- 3%
- Teaching language
- English
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Ranking
- QS World: #10
Data from the official website and Wikidata · last checked 18 Oct 2026 · How we collect data · Report an error · Is this your university? Claim it to update
The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a private research university in Pasadena, California, founded in 1891 as Throop University. Its small size and focus on science and engineering make it one of the world's most research-intensive institutions.
Caltech has six academic divisions: 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. It manages NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and operates observatories including Palomar. Dozens of Nobel laureates are associated with Caltech.
Undergraduate admission is highly selective. Caltech meets the full demonstrated financial need of admitted students, and undergraduates live in a residential house system.
Admissions, rankings and scholarships
Rankings
- #10QS World
- #6THE World
Requirements and dates change every year. Confirm them on California Institute of Technology (Caltech)'s official website before applying.
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Frequently asked questions
How much is tuition at California Institute of Technology (Caltech)?
Tuition at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is around USD 63,402–65,622 a year for 2025-26. Fees vary by program and can differ for international students, so check the university's official fees page before applying.
What is the acceptance rate at California Institute of Technology (Caltech)?
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) has an acceptance rate of about 3%.
What language are courses taught in at California Institute of Technology (Caltech)?
Courses at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) are taught in English.
When is the application deadline for California Institute of Technology (Caltech)?
Early Action: Nov 1, Regular Decision: Jan 3
Does California Institute of Technology (Caltech) offer scholarships?
Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Average grant aid ~$73,000.
Does California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have student accommodation?
Accommodation options include: Eight Residential Houses, Bechtel Residence, Graduate Housing, Family Housing.
How many international students are at California Institute of Technology (Caltech)?
About 30% of students at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) are international.
When was California Institute of Technology (Caltech) founded?
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) was founded in 1891.
How is California Institute of Technology (Caltech) ranked?
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is ranked QS World: #10; THE World: #6.
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