Caltech
Pioneering Science. Shaping Tomorrow.
📍 Pasadena, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #6 in United States · QS World #10 · THE World #7
Quick Facts about Caltech
- Type: Private
- Students: 2,518
- International: 19%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $60,864 – $65,622/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 3:1
- Intakes: September
About Caltech
Academics
Caltech's academic approach emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of fundamental concepts over rote memorization. The university is globally recognized for its strengths in physics, mathematics, engineering, astronomy, chemistry, and computational sciences. Students engage in hands-on research opportunities and interdisciplinary collaboration, with a core curriculum providing a rigorous foundation in math, physics, chemistry, biology, and humanities. Caltech's connection to NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) provides unique research opportunities in space missions and interplanetary exploration.
International Students
Caltech is home to a diverse international student body, with international students making up approximately 12% of undergraduates and 40% of graduate students. The International Student Programs (ISP) office provides comprehensive support, including immigration advising for visas and employment authorization, intercultural programming, and orientation to help students adjust to life in the U.S. English proficiency exams like TOEFL or IELTS are required for most international applicants. Caltech also offers various student organizations, including cultural identity groups, fostering a sense of community and aiding cultural integration.
Campus & Location
Caltech's campus is situated in Pasadena, California, a city that offers a vibrant environment. The campus itself is known for its collaborative community where faculty, students, and staff interact closely. Pasadena provides a backdrop of city life with various attractions, and the campus features dining options and wellness services. The university is an integral part of Pasadena, and together with JPL, it is a significant employer in the city.
Career Outcomes
Caltech graduates are highly sought after, with a median starting salary range of $110,000 - $119,000. Approximately 42-46% of graduates pursue further graduate or professional education, with over 70% accepted into their top-choice programs. The remaining graduates typically secure full-time employment in various industries, including leading tech companies like Google, NASA, SpaceX, OpenAI, Apple, and Microsoft. Caltech fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, offering resources like the eClub, the Office of Technology Transfer, and the Caltech Innovation Center to support students in launching startups and commercializing their ideas.
Information for International Students at Caltech
Caltech in Pasadena, United States welcomes international students, with 19% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 19% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Caltech
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Caltech:
- IELTS minimum: 7
- TOEFL minimum: 100
- Duolingo minimum: 130
- GPA minimum: 3.5
- Application fee: $75
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: November 1 (Restrictive Early Action), January 3 (Regular Decision)
Programs at Caltech (16 programs)
Caltech offers 16 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (4)
- Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This undergraduate program provides a strong foundation in theoretical computer science, algorithms, and programming. Students explore areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Developer - Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
The undergraduate Mathematics program provides a rigorous foundation in pure and applied mathematics, including algebra, analysis, and topology. Students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Data Analyst, Quantitative Researcher - Social Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This interdisciplinary undergraduate program applies quantitative and scientific methods to study human behavior, societies, and institutions. Students explore topics in economics, political science, and computational social science.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Data Analyst, Policy Analyst, Researcher - Physics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This undergraduate program provides a comprehensive understanding of fundamental physical principles, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics. Students develop strong analytical and experimental skills.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Research Assistant, Engineer
Master Programs (4)
- Chemical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This master's program focuses on advanced chemical engineering principles, including reaction kinetics, transport phenomena, and process design. Students can specialize in areas like sustainable energy or biochemical engineering.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Research and Development Scientist - Electrical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
The Master's in Electrical Engineering offers advanced study in areas like integrated circuits, photonics, and signal processing. Students gain expertise in designing and analyzing complex electrical systems.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Systems Architect - Mechanical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This master's program covers advanced topics in mechanical design, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics. Students can specialize in areas like robotics, energy systems, or solid mechanics.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Product Design Engineer - Planetary Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This master's program explores the formation, evolution, and characteristics of planets and other celestial bodies. Students engage in research using data from space missions and ground-based observations.
Field: Astronomy
Career outcomes: Planetary Scientist, Research Associate, Space Industry Analyst
PhD Programs (8)
- Astrophysics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This doctoral program delves into the fundamental processes governing the universe, from planetary systems to cosmology. Students engage in cutting-edge research using observational data and theoretical modeling.
Field: Astronomy
Career outcomes: Astronomer, Research Scientist, University Professor - Chemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
The Chemistry PhD program offers rigorous training in all major areas of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and theoretical chemistry. Students conduct independent research leading to significant contributions to the field.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Research Chemist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist - Control and Dynamical Systems (PhD) — 60 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This interdisciplinary program focuses on the theory and application of control systems and dynamical systems across various engineering and scientific disciplines. Students develop expertise in modeling, analysis, and design of complex systems.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Control Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Research Scientist - Environmental Science and Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This program addresses critical environmental challenges through interdisciplinary research in atmospheric science, geochemistry, and environmental fluid mechanics. Students develop solutions for sustainability and pollution control.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Environmental Engineer, Policy Analyst - Geological and Planetary Sciences (PhD) — 60 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
Students in this program investigate the Earth and other planets, covering topics from seismology and tectonics to planetary atmospheres and astrobiology. Research often involves fieldwork and advanced computational modeling.
Field: Earth Sciences
Career outcomes: Geologist, Planetary Scientist, Research Geophysicist - Neuroscience (PhD) — 60 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
The Neuroscience PhD program investigates the structure and function of the nervous system, from molecular to systems level. Students conduct research on topics such as neural circuits, cognition, and brain disorders.
Field: Neuroscience
Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, Research Scientist, University Professor - Theoretical Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
The PhD in Theoretical Physics focuses on developing new theoretical frameworks and models to understand fundamental physical phenomena. Students work on areas such as quantum field theory, string theory, and general relativity.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Theoretical Physicist, University Professor, Research Scientist - Materials Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $60,000/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and application of novel materials, from advanced ceramics to polymers and nanomaterials. Students conduct research at the intersection of physics, chemistry, and engineering.
Field: Materials Science
Career outcomes: Materials Scientist, Research Engineer, University Professor
Scholarships & Tuition at Caltech
Annual tuition for international students: $60,864 – $65,622/year
✅ Caltech offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Caltech
- National Ranking: #6 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #10
- Times Higher Education (THE): #7
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Caltech
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Urban
- Average class size: 20
Key Highlights
- World-renowned science and engineering
- Small student body, high faculty ratio
- NASA JPL research opportunities
- Rigorous STEM curriculum
- Strong international student support
Accreditation
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Notable Alumni
- Linus Pauling
- Richard Feynman
- William Shockley
- Gordon Moore
- Frances Arnold
Frequently Asked Questions about Caltech
What is Caltech?
Caltech is a private university located in Pasadena, United States. It has approximately 2,518 students, with 19% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Caltech?
Tuition fees at Caltech for international students range from $60,864 – $65,622/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Caltech?
IELTS minimum: 7. TOEFL minimum: 100. Duolingo minimum: 130. GPA minimum: 3.5. Application fee: $75. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: November 1 (Restrictive Early Action), January 3 (Regular Decision).
What language are courses taught in at Caltech?
Courses at Caltech are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 7.
How many programs does Caltech offer?
Caltech offers 16 programs: 4 Bachelor's, 4 Master's, and 8 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Caltech ranked?
#6 in United States · QS World #10 · THE World #7.
Does Caltech offer scholarships?
Yes, Caltech offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Caltech provide visa support?
Yes, Caltech provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
Apply to Caltech with Abroadly
Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to Caltech. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.