Caltech is a highly selective and prestigious university that attracts some of the brightest minds in science and engineering. Its focus on research and innovation has led to many groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements. Find out more about California Institute of Technology University below.
What is California Institute of Technology ?
The California Institute of Technology, commonly referred to as Caltech, is a private research university located in Pasadena, California, United States. It was founded in 1891 as Throop University and was renamed to its current name in 1920.
Caltech is known for its strength in science, engineering, and technology, and is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the world. The Institute offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of fields, including physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and applied mathematics.
Caltech has a small student body of around 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students, which allows for a highly personalized and research-focused education. The university has a faculty of approximately 300 members, many of whom are Nobel laureates, members of the National Academy of Sciences, and other prestigious organizations.
Caltech has produced numerous Nobel laureates, including Richard Feynman, Murray Gell-Mann, and Linus Pauling, and has played a significant role in the development of modern technology, including the creation of the first synthetic gene and the development of the first autonomous robot. Caltech is also affiliated with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), a NASA research center located in nearby La Canada Flintridge, California, which manages many of NASA's unmanned space missions.
Caltech History
The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) was founded in 1891 as Throop University by Amos G. Throop, a local businessman and politician. Throop University was originally a vocational school for the training of manual arts and applied sciences, but in 1907 it began offering courses in pure and applied sciences as well.
In 1910, Arthur Fleming, a prominent chemist and educator, was appointed as Throop's first president. Fleming transformed the school into a research-oriented institution, attracting top scientists and researchers to the faculty. In recognition of this transformation, the school was renamed the Throop College of Technology in 1920.
In 1921, Robert A. Millikan, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, became the new president of the college. Millikan further enhanced the reputation of the institution as a center for scientific research and innovation, attracting funding from philanthropic organizations and government agencies.
In 1934, the school was renamed the California Institute of Technology, reflecting its focus on advanced research in science and engineering. During World War II, Caltech played a significant role in the development of radar technology and rocket propulsion systems, and many of its faculty and researchers were involved in the Manhattan Project, which developed the atomic bomb.
Caltech has continued to be a world-renowned institution for scientific research and education, with numerous Nobel laureates and other distinguished alumni and faculty. In recent years, Caltech has also been involved in the development of cutting-edge technologies, including nanotechnology, quantum computing, and autonomous systems.
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How the Caltech University Works ?
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a private research university that operates on a trimester academic calendar. Here are some key features of how Caltech works :
1) Six academic divisions :
Biology and Biological Engineering, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Engineering and Applied Science, Geological and Planetary Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Physics, Mathematics, and Astronomy.
2) Academic Programs :
Caltech offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science, engineering, and technology. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on, research-based learning, and students work closely with faculty advisors to design their course of study.
3) Research :
Caltech is known for its cutting-edge research in a variety of fields, including physics, astronomy, biology, and engineering. Many undergraduates are involved in research projects, and graduate students work closely with faculty to conduct original research.
4) Faculty :
Caltech has a faculty of approximately 300 members, many of whom are leaders in their respective fields. Faculty members are involved in teaching, research, and mentoring students.
5) Student Body :
Caltech has a small student body, with around 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The student body is highly diverse and includes students from all over the world.
6) Campus Life :
Caltech has a residential campus, with all undergraduate students required to live on campus. There are a variety of student clubs and organizations, and students have access to a range of facilities, including research labs, libraries, and athletic facilities.
What is Caltech Known For ?
Caltech is known for its excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Specifically, Caltech is known for its groundbreaking research and discoveries in physics, astronomy, chemistry, biology, computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.
Some of the notable contributions and discoveries made by Caltech researchers and faculty include :
- The discovery of the first known exoplanet orbiting a star other than the sun
- The development of the first synthetic gene
- The creation of the first autonomous robot
- The discovery of gravitational waves, which confirmed Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity
- The development of the first practical method for measuring the age of the universe
- The invention of the laser
- The discovery of the first virus that causes a common human cancer (human papillomavirus or HPV)
In addition to its scientific research and discoveries, Caltech is also known for its small size, close-knit community, and rigorous academic programs, which attract some of the brightest and most talented students from around the world.
Caltech University Courses
California Institute of Technology offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate courses across several fields of study. Here are some examples of the courses offered at Caltech :
1) Aerospace :
- Introduction to Aerospace Engineering
- Aircraft Design
- Flight Mechanics and Controls
- Advanced Spacecraft Design
2) Applied and Computational Mathematics :
- Probability and Statistics
- Numerical Methods for Differential Equations
- Optimization
- Scientific Computing and Visualization
3) Biology :
- Cell Biology
- Genetics and Genomics
- Developmental Biology
- Neurobiology
4) Chemistry :
- Organic Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Inorganic Chemistry
5) Computer Science :
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Computer Networks
- Artificial Intelligence
6) Engineering and Applied Science :
- Introduction to Electrical Engineering
- Mechanics of Solids
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Energy Science and Technology
7) Physics :
- Mechanics and Special Relativity
- Electromagnetism
- Quantum Mechanics
- Astrophysics
These are just a few examples of the many courses offered at Caltech. Students can also design their own course of study with the guidance of faculty advisors.
Caltech Admission Requirements
Admission to California Institute of Technology is highly selective, with a rigorous application process. Here are the general requirements for undergraduate admission :
1) Application form :
All applicants must submit the Common Application or the Coalition Application along with a Caltech-specific writing supplement.
2) Standardized test scores :
Applicants must submit scores for either the SAT (with Essay) or ACT (with Writing). Additionally, applicants must submit scores for two SAT Subject Tests, one in Math (Level 2 only) and one in either Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
3) Academic record :
Applicants must have completed a rigorous high school program with strong performance in advanced math and science courses. Caltech prefers students who have taken advanced placement (AP), international baccalaureate (IB), or honors courses.
4) Essays :
Applicants must submit two essays in response to the prompts provided in the application.
5) Letters of recommendation :
Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation from teachers or other academic professionals who can attest to their academic abilities. A third letter may be submitted from someone who knows the applicant in a different context, such as a coach, employer, or community leader.
5) Optional interviews :
Caltech offers optional interviews with alumni or admissions officers. While not required, an interview can provide an opportunity to showcase your personality, interests, and fit for the institution.
It is important to note that admission to Caltech is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Admissions decisions are based on a holistic review of each applicant, taking into consideration factors such as academic achievement, extracurricular activities, leadership, and personal qualities.
How to Get Admission in Caltech ?
Caltech University application process is is highly selective and competitive. To apply to follow these steps :
1) Choose an application platform :
Caltech accepts both the Common Application and the Coalition Application. Choose the platform that is most convenient for you.
2) Create an account :
Create an account on the application platform you have chosen.
3) Fill out the application :
Fill out the application with your personal information, academic record, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and other required information.
4) Submit the application fee :
Caltech requires a non-refundable application fee of $75. Fee waivers are available for eligible students.
5) Submit test scores :
Caltech requires scores for either the SAT (with Essay) or ACT (with Writing), as well as two SAT Subject Tests in Math (Level 2 only) and one in either Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. Make sure to have your scores sent directly to Caltech from the testing agency.
6) Submit transcripts :
Caltech requires official transcripts from all high schools attended, as well as any college-level courses taken.
7) Submit letters of recommendation :
Caltech requires two letters of recommendation from teachers or other academic professionals. A third letter may be submitted from someone who knows the applicant in a different context, such as a coach, employer, or community leader.
8) Submit the Caltech writing supplement :
Caltech requires a writing supplement that asks applicants to respond to several short-answer questions.
9) Optional interview :
Caltech offers optional interviews with alumni or admissions officers. An interview is not required, but it can provide an opportunity to showcase personality, interests, and fit for the institution.
Make sure to review all application materials carefully before submitting to ensure accuracy and completeness. If admitted, students will be required to submit a non-refundable deposit to secure their spot. Additionally, they will be required to submit final transcripts and any other necessary documentation before starting classes in the fall.
Caltech University Application Fee
For undergraduate applicants, the application fee for California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is $75. However, if you meet certain eligibility criteria, you may be able to request a fee waiver. The fee waiver eligibility criteria include :
- You are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible non-citizen, and you have limited financial resources.
- You are currently enrolled in or eligible to participate in the Federal Free or Reduced Price Lunch program (FRPL).
- Your family income falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
- You are an orphan or ward of the court under the age of 24.
- You have received a fee waiver for the SAT or ACT.
If you are eligible for a fee waiver, you will need to indicate this on your application and submit the required documentation. If your fee waiver request is approved, the application fee will be waived. Graduate application fees vary by program, so it's best to check the specific requirements for your intended program of study on the Caltech website.
Documents Required to Apply for Caltech University
The specific documents required to apply to California Institute of Technology vary depending on the program of study. However, here are some general documents that are typically required for undergraduate and graduate admissions :
Undergraduate Admissions :
- Common Application or Coalition Application
- Official high school transcripts
- Official SAT or ACT scores (optional for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle due to COVID-19)
- Two teacher evaluations
- Mid-year school report
- Final school report
- Application fee or fee waiver request
Graduate Admissions :
- Online application
- Official transcripts from all universities attended
- Official GRE or GMAT scores (for most programs)
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation (typically 3)
- Resume or CV
- Application fee or fee waiver request
Some programs may also require additional materials, such as writing samples or portfolios. It's important to check the specific requirements for your intended program of study on the Caltech website or contact the admissions office for more information.
Cost of Studying at Caltech University
For the 2023-2024 academic year, the estimated total cost of attendance at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is approximately $80,529. This includes tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and personal expenses.
Here is a breakdown of the estimated costs for the academic year 2023 :
- Tuition and Fees: $55,518
- Room and Board: $17,337
- Books and Supplies: $1,425
- Personal Expenses: $6,249
Note that these costs are only estimates and may vary depending on a student's individual circumstances. Additionally, students should also budget for other expenses such as transportation and health insurance.
Caltech University Scholarship
California Institute of Technology university offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help students with the cost of attending the university. Here are some of the scholarship options available at Caltech :
1) Merit-based scholarships :
Caltech offers several merit-based scholarships, including the Caltech Excellence in Science and Engineering Scholarship, the Fleming and Cannon Endowed Scholarships, and the Jean-Lou Chameau Leadership Scholarship. These scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated academic excellence and potential for leadership.
2) Need-based financial aid :
Caltech offers need-based financial aid to students who demonstrate financial need. This aid may come in the form of grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
3) Caltech-specific scholarships :
Some scholarships are specific to Caltech students, such as the Richard P. Feynman Prize for Excellence in Teaching and the Resnick Sustainability Institute Prize for Sustainable Energy Research.
4) External scholarships :
Students may also be eligible for external scholarships from organizations outside of Caltech. These scholarships may be awarded based on factors such as academic merit, leadership potential, or financial need.
It's important to note that Caltech has a need-blind admission policy, meaning that a student's ability to pay is not considered in the admissions process. Students are encouraged to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile to be considered for financial aid.
Caltech University Applications Deadlines for 2023
The application deadlines for California Institute of Technology for the 2023 academic year vary depending on the program of study. Here are the application deadlines for each program :
Undergraduate Admissions :
- Early Action: November 1, 2022
- Regular Decision: January 3, 2023
Graduate Admissions :
- December 1, 2023 : Aerospace, Applied Physics, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Control and Dynamical Systems, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Science and Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Engineering, and Space Engineering.
- December 15, 2023 : Astronomy, Astrophysics, Chemistry, Geological and Planetary Sciences, Mathematics, Physics, and Social Sciences.
How to Contact Caltech University ?
You can contact California Institute of Technology University in several ways :
1) Phone :
You can call the Caltech main switchboard at (626) 395-6811 to be directed to the appropriate department or individual.
2) Email :
You can send an email to the appropriate department or individual using their email address, which can be found on the Caltech website.
3) Website :
You can visit the Caltech website at www.caltech.edu for more information, including a directory of faculty and staff.
4) Social media :
You can connect with Caltech on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
5) In-person :
If you are in the Pasadena area, you can visit the Caltech campus in person and speak with faculty, staff, or admissions representatives.
Caltech university address :
1200 East California Boulevard
Pasadena, California 91125
It's recommended to check the Caltech website for the specific contact information you need for your inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Caltech?
The acceptance rate at Caltech is typically around 6-7%, making it one of the most selective universities in the United States.
What are the SAT/ACT score requirements for Caltech?
Caltech does not have a minimum required score for the SAT/ACT. However, most successful applicants have scores in the 99th percentile or above.
Does Caltech require interviews?
Caltech offers optional interviews with alumni or admissions officers. An interview is not required, but it can provide an opportunity to showcase personality, interests, and fit for the institution.
What is the tuition cost at Caltech?
The tuition cost at Caltech for the 2022 academic year is $56,862. Room and board, books, and other expenses can add an additional $17,000-$20,000 per year.
Does Caltech offer financial aid?
Caltech is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated need for all admitted students. Financial aid is based on a family's ability to pay, and includes grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Caltech?
The student-to-faculty ratio at Caltech is 3:1, ensuring that students have close access to professors and opportunities for research and mentorship.
What is the average class size at Caltech?
The average class size at Caltech is around 14 students, with a maximum class size of 25 students.
What is the retention rate at Caltech?
The retention rate at Caltech is over 98%, indicating that the vast majority of students return for their second year of study.
What is the graduation rate at Caltech?
The graduation rate at Caltech is over 93%, indicating that the vast majority of students graduate within 4-6 years of matriculation.