How to Get Into California Institute of Technology
Complete guide to admission requirements, essays, deadlines, and tips for success
Quick Overview
California Institute of Technology is one of the most selective universities in the United States, with an acceptance rate of 3.9%. Founded in 1891, the university is located in Pasadena, California and currently enrolls ~1,000 undergraduates.
Getting into California Institute of Technology requires exceptional academic performance, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and compelling essays that demonstrate your unique perspective and potential for contribution to the university community.
Academic Requirements
GPA Requirements
Most successful applicants have a GPA in this range or higher
Test Scores
Remember: While these statistics provide guidance, California Institute of Technology uses holistic admissions. Strong essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars can significantly impact your application.
Application Essays
Key Essay Prompts:
- "Describe your STEM interests and how you might use Caltech's resources to pursue them"
- "What three experiences or qualities have shaped you most?"
Essay Tips: Focus on authenticity and specific examples. Show, don't tell your story. Connect your experiences to your potential contributions at California Institute of Technology.
Application Deadlines
Tips for Success
- Demonstrate exceptional STEM abilities and achievements
- Show genuine passion for scientific research and discovery
- Highlight hands-on research experience or significant STEM projects
- Emphasize collaborative problem-solving skills
- Connect your interests to specific Caltech research opportunities
- Show resilience and persistence in tackling difficult problems
What Makes a Strong Applicant
Quick Links
Popular Majors
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
Notable Alumni
- Kip Thorne (Nobel Prize-winning physicist)
- Gordon Moore (Intel co-founder)
- Frank Capra (Film director)
- Linus Pauling (Nobel Prize winner)
- Harrison Schmitt (Apollo astronaut)
Get Personalized Guidance
Get matched with universities that fit your profile and receive personalized admission strategies.
Start Your JourneyFrequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at California Institute of Technology?
California Institute of Technology has an acceptance rate of 3.9%, making it one of the most selective universities in the United States. This means that for every 100 applications, only about 4 are accepted.
What GPA do you need for California Institute of Technology?
Most successful applicants to California Institute of Technology have a 4.0+ (weighted). However, California Institute of Technology uses holistic admissions, meaning they consider all aspects of your application including essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations.
What SAT scores do you need for California Institute of Technology?
The middle 50% SAT range for California Institute of Technology is 1530-1580. Standardized test scores are required for admission.
When are California Institute of Technology application deadlines?
Application deadlines for California Institute of Technology are: Early Decision: November 1, Early Action: November 1, Regular Decision: January 3. Make sure to submit all materials before these dates.
What makes a strong applicant to California Institute of Technology?
Strong California Institute of Technology applicants typically demonstrate exceptional mathematical and scientific abilities, genuine passion for stem research, hands-on research or project experience, among other qualities. The university values students who will contribute meaningfully to their community.