If you’re curious about what the Caltech Acceptance Rate is, the article presents a detailed guide on the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) admission exercise.
The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a renowned filming location for shows and movies featuring brilliant young scientists. It attracts some of the most accomplished minds in STEM fields from across the country.
Often referred to as “MIT-West,” Caltech is smaller than MIT, catering to around 1,000 undergraduates compared to MIT’s 4,600+. Despite receiving over 16,000 applicants annually, the Caltech acceptance rate remains extremely competitive, at only 2-3%.
Successful Caltech applicants possess exceptional academic records, near-perfect standardized test scores, and remarkable talents beyond the classroom.
However, these attributes, although essential, do not guarantee acceptance, as even valedictorians face rejection during the admissions cycle. Caltech seeks extraordinary individuals who exhibit extraordinary achievements and potential in their respective fields.
Contents
Caltech Acceptance Rate 2023
In the application cycle for the 2022-23 freshman class, Caltech received 16,626 applications, but only 448 applicants were granted admission, resulting in an incredibly low acceptance rate of 2.7%, which was even lower than MIT’s rate for the same period.
While official statistics for the Class of 2027 have not been disclosed yet, it has been confirmed that only 412 students were accepted. This suggests that the acceptance rate for the incoming freshman class in 2023-24 may once again be below 3%.
Caltech Admissions – SAT, GPA, and Class Rank
Caltech has not yet released academic statistics for the Class of 2027, largely due to their current test-blind policy, which means they don’t consider SAT or ACT scores.
However, for the Class of 2026, an impressive 96% of students ranked in the top 10% of their high school class. While specific data on the average GPA is not disclosed, it is reasonable to assume that most Caltech students have an unweighted GPA of 4.0 or very close to it, achieved through a comprehensive selection of challenging AP/IB courses.
Admissions Trends & Notes 2023
- 44% of the accepted Class of 2026 is female.
- 64% of the admitted Class of 2027 attended public schools.
- International students accepted hailed from 31 countries including Zimbabwe, Poland, and Jamaica.
- One-third of students submitted a portfolio or maker work.
- 20% are Scholar-athletes.
- 45% presented materials related to past research.
How Caltech Rates Applicants
Back in 2020, at the start of the pandemic, Caltech announced two major changes to their admissions process:
- Elimination of SAT Subject Test scores requirement.
- A two-year moratorium on the requirement of and consideration of the SAT/ACT. This moratorium has since been extended to those applying to join the 2022-23 freshman class.
Caltech has always employed a comprehensive approach to admissions, and this was further emphasized during the pandemic when the admissions committee adapted to the changing circumstances.
The Dean of Admissions assured prospective applicants that their stories shared through applications would be treated with utmost care. Caltech has a longstanding practice of considering students within the context of the opportunities available to them, and they will continue to adhere to this approach. Moreover, they will display flexibility and understanding towards any extenuating circumstances surrounding the college application process.
According to Caltech, four factors hold significant importance in the admissions process: the rigor of high school coursework, application essays, recommendations, and the candidate’s character and personal qualities. Meanwhile, class rank, GPA, and involvement in extracurricular activities are considered important by the admissions committee.
Math and Science Preparedness
On the academic front, the Caltech admissions committee wants to see evidence of success in courses covering rigorously proof-based, abstract math. They want to see a mastery of calculus that will ready students to study the following subjects:
- Set Theory & Logic
- Differential & Integral Calculus
- Linear Algebra
- Ordinary Differential Equations
Science expectations are similarly high. In the committee’s own words:
A student’s readiness for science at the college level extends beyond basic science courses taken in earlier secondary or high school years. Although not an absolute requirement, the Admissions Committee will have a preference for students who have taken science classes, particularly in physics and chemistry, at the most advanced level available in their school.
Who Actually Gets Into Caltech?
Looking at ethnic identity, the breakdown for all undergraduates in 2022-23 was as follows (note—these do not add up to 100% as some individuals belong to more than one category):
- White: 23%
- Asian: 35%
- Hispanic: 22%
- African American: 3%
- Two or More Races: 9%
The gender breakdown was as follows:
- Men: 55%
- Women: 45%
Students hail from the following locations:
- In-state: 35%
- Out-of-State: 62%
- International: 8%
The greatest percentage of international students come from:
- Canada
- China
- India
- South Korea
- Colombia
Caltech’s Yield Rate
Caltech’s yield rate—the percentage of accepted students who elect to enroll, divided by the total number of students who are admitted to Caltech is a touch over 50%. This number is much lower than the likes of Stanford, Harvard, or MIT but higher than Rice or Carnegie Mellon.
Tips for Applying to Caltech
If you plan on joining the 16,000+ Caltech hopefuls for the next admissions cycle, you should know the following:
- We repeat–Caltech will continue to operate in a test-blind capacity for the Class of 2027 admission cycle.
- Caltech gives students the option of using the Common Application or the Coalition Application. Unlike rival MIT, they do not use their own separate application form.
- Caltech does not consider “demonstrated interest” so you will not be judged on whether or not you made a campus visit, contacted an admissions officer, etc.
- There are no undergraduate interviews at Caltech. Your essays and teacher recommendations are the best way to forge a personal connection with an admissions officer.
- Caltech requires all international applicants to submit TOEFL scores and an International Financial Aid Statement of Intent.
- Make sure to dedicate sufficient time and effort to the supplemental essay and short answers required by Caltech. In the 2022-23 cycle, they were as follows:
Caltech Essay Prompts
PROMPT #1: Tell us about a time or experience in which you encountered failure. (100–150 words.)
PROMPT #2: Tell us about a life situation, media story, or topic beyond or outside of a classroom or formal assignment that has captivated you, inspired your curiosity, and led you to delve more deeply into learning about a subject on your own. (100–150 words.)
PROMPT #3: Tell us about how you have collaborated with and worked together within a small group of your peers on some task or endeavor in the past, or about how you imagine you will work with your Caltech peers in the future. (100–150 words.)
When writing your essays for Caltech, view each prompt as an opportunity to genuinely and enthusiastically share exciting aspects of yourself. Embrace the chance to provide personal, deep, and honest responses, as it allows you to make a positive impression on the admissions officer reviewing your application.
Express your genuine passion for learning and your specific interest in Caltech. Be detailed and specific in your responses to showcase your enthusiasm. The prank prompt allows you to display your humorous side and engage in some playful fun. When executed effectively, your passion and potential will shine through, setting you apart from numerous other qualified applicants. Use this chance to make a memorable impact on the admissions team.
For academically qualified candidates, there is no harm in completing a Caltech application. However, it’s crucial to recognize that even the most exceptional and talented applicants must have a strong backup plan when applying to highly selective colleges like Caltech in 2023-24.
Every college-bound student should carefully curate a well-balanced college list that includes both “target” and “safety” schools. It is advisable to seek guidance from an admissions professional, including your high school counselor, to ensure you have a well-rounded list that aligns with your academic and personal goals.
