Caltech is a world-renowned private research university in Pasadena, California, with a focus on science and engineering. It offers rigorous academic programs with small class sizes and cutting-edge research opportunities. Caltech is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities globally.
- Location: Pasadena, California, USA
- Global Ranking: Typically ranked within the top 5 by QS, THE, and U.S. News
- Programs: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees in engineering, natural sciences, and social sciences
- Program Duration:
- Bachelor’s: 4 years
- Master’s: 1-2 years
- PhD: 4-6 years
- Application Deadlines:
- Undergraduate: Early Action – Nov 1; Regular Decision – Jan 3
- Graduate: Deadlines vary by program (typically in Dec-Jan)
Study Areas: Program List
Engineering Programs
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Environmental Science and Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
Computer Science & Technology
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Data Science
- Machine Learning
- Robotics and Automation
Natural Sciences
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology (including Molecular Biology, Neurobiology, and Bioengineering)
- Mathematics
- Earth and Planetary Sciences
- Astrophysics and Astronomy
Social Sciences & Humanities
- Economics
- Psychology
- History
- Philosophy
- Political Science
Interdisciplinary Programs
- Applied Physics
- Computational Science
- Systems Biology
- Quantum Science & Technology
Admission Requirements (Bachelor, Masters, PhD): GPA and English, Standardized Test Scores
Bachelor’s Degree
- GPA: Competitive (3.9+ preferred)
- English Proficiency: TOEFL iBT 100+, IELTS 7.5+
- Standardized Tests: ACT/SAT (optional for Fall 2024 applicants)
Master’s and PhD Programs
- GPA: Minimum 3.5 (competitive)
- English Proficiency: TOEFL iBT 105+, IELTS 7.5+
Required Documents to Apply
- For Undergraduate:
- Completed online application via Common App
- Official transcripts
- Teacher recommendation letters
- Personal statement
- SAT/ACT scores (optional)
- Proof of English proficiency (if required)
- For Graduate:
- Statement of purpose
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation (2-3)
- GRE scores (if required)
- Resume/CV
Tuition Fees for International Students (2024-2025)
Undergraduate Tuition
- Annual Tuition: $62,640
- Other Fees: $2,700 (health insurance, student services, etc.)
- Total (approx.): $65,000 per year
Graduate Tuition
- Annual Tuition: $55,964
- Graduate Health Fee: $2,700
- Total (approx.): $58,000 per year
- Note: PhD students often receive tuition waivers and stipends through research assistantships or fellowships.
Why Choose This University
- World-class faculty and small student-to-faculty ratio
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and labs
- Strong connections with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
- Focus on interdisciplinary collaboration
- Prestigious alumni network
Suggestions for International Applicants
- Start preparing early to meet application deadlines.
- Be ready for a competitive admission process—craft strong personal statements.
- Familiarize yourself with the student visa application process (F-1 visa).
- Consider applying for financial aid and scholarships.
- Join online communities to connect with current international students.
Available Scholarships for International Students
- Caltech Financial Aid for International Students: Limited need-based aid available for undergraduate students.
- Graduate Fellowships: Many PhD programs provide full funding, including tuition and stipend.
- External Scholarships: Fulbright, AAUW International Fellowships, and others.
- Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships: Available for graduate students
FAQ about this University
- What is Caltech’s student-to-faculty ratio?
- The ratio is 3:1, ensuring close interaction between students and professors.
- Can international students work on campus?
- Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
- Is financial aid available for international students?
- Limited need-based aid is available for undergraduate international students.
- Does Caltech require a GRE for graduate programs?
- Some programs require the GRE, but many have made it optional or waived it recently.
- How competitive is admission to Caltech?
- Highly competitive, with an undergraduate acceptance rate below 10%.