California Institute of Technology

School Overview

California Institute of Technology is located in Pasadena, CA, 91125, set within a suburban environment that shapes the daily student experience. The university is ranked #11 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

Admission to California Institute of Technology is exceptionally competitive. Only 3% of applicants are offered a place, putting it among the most selective schools in the nation. Applications are due by Jan. 3, so students should plan their materials well in advance.

With just 987 undergraduates, California Institute of Technology provides an intimate academic setting where small class sizes and close faculty mentorship are central to the student experience. The student-to-faculty ratio is 3:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 71% of classes have fewer than 20 students, fostering the kind of seminar-style discussion and hands-on collaboration that deepens real understanding. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 77%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.

The most popular fields of study at California Institute of Technology include Computer Science (40% of students, median early-career salary: $232,903), Mechanical Engineering (16% of students), and Physics, General (9% of students). These enrollment patterns reflect the institution's strengths and the career interests of its student body, giving prospective students a clear sense of the academic culture and post-graduation opportunities available here.

The published tuition and fees are $68,208 per year. Room and board adds approximately $20,991. However, the average net price after financial aid is $16,550, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. Need-based aid averages $74,780 per recipient, demonstrating the institution's commitment to making education financially accessible. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with California Institute of Technology's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. California Institute of Technology combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, a diverse range of popular programs to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether California Institute of Technology is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.