How can I increase my chances of getting into Caltech?

Focus on Having Outstanding Academic Performance Caltech is a highly selective school with rigorous curriculums. To prove you can handle Caltech's robust programs, you'll need to maintain a high GPA and take challenging courses, especially advanced mathematics and science.

What is the best way to get into Caltech?

To have the best shot of getting in, you should aim for the 75th percentile, with a 1570 SAT or a 36 ACT. You should also have a 4.19 GPA or higher. If your GPA is lower than this, you need to compensate with a higher SAT/ACT score.

What type of students does Caltech look for?

Creativity. Caltech sits at the intersection of curiosity and creativity. Techers possess many traits, but the way they blend these may be most universal. You want to know how things work for their own sake.

What is the lowest GPA accepted into Caltech?

Caltech does not have a minimum GPA requirement. However, most successful applicants have a US GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and/or are in the top 5 to 10% of their class. Are international students required to report a GPA? GPA's should only be reported for those schools attended within the United States.

What to do in high school to get into Caltech?

Take the math and science classes that will launch you into our core curriculum. And take classes that really spark your interest. Importantly - take more than STEM. All students are required to take 3-4 years of English and, if you are in an American school, we require one year of US History or Government.

The Extracurricular Activities that Top Colleges Do/Don't Want to See

What is the hardest major at Caltech?

The Chemical Engineering major has a lot of requirements which makes it difficult. The classes for the Math major are very high level math courses, so you need to have an aptitude for math. I'd say chemical engineering in terms of the sheer amount of work.

Does Caltech care about extracurriculars?

Caltech does not look for one specific extracurricular activity. Instead, Caltech wants to see that you are dedicated to your interests. So, it is more about the quality of your extracurriculars, rather than the quantity. Caltech also takes special note of any involvement in math or science extracurriculars.

Who gets accepted to Caltech?

You'll need a rigorous academic record to get into Caltech. Aim for a weighted GPA of 4.19 and SAT/ACT scores of 1570 and 36. Competitive applicants also take academically challenging courses, such as AP or IB courses, and demonstrate their passion for STEM in their admission essays and extracurricular activities.

Which is better Caltech or MIT?

MIT: Overview. At a glance, Caltech and MIT are quite similar. They both have a mere 4% acceptance rate, although admitted freshmen at Caltech have higher test scores and grades, albeit by a very slim margin. On the other hand, MIT has a higher school ranking and slightly more prestige.

Can I get into Caltech with a 1500?

The 25th percentile New SAT score is 1530, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1570. In other words, a 1530 places you below average, while a 1570 will move you up to above average. There's no absolute SAT requirement at Caltech, but they really want to see at least a 1530 to have a chance at being considered.

What is the most popular major at Caltech?

The most popular majors at California Institute of Technology include: Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services; Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians; Physical Sciences; Mathematics and Statistics; Biological and Biomedical Sciences; and Business, Management, Marketing, and Related ...

Why is Caltech so prestigious?

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions and pressing societal challenges.

Why is Caltech so selective?

These applicants represent the top tier of students in the country who have great academic records and SAT scores. For every student interested in pursuing a career in science and technology, CalTech is the place to be. As a result, the school is very selective about the students it admits.

Is Caltech or MIT harder?

Caltech and MIT are similarly competitive.

As for standardized test scores, Caltech averages are slightly higher than those at MIT, despite MIT's higher rankings. At Caltech, the average SAT score is a1545 and the average ACT score is a perfect 36. At MIT, the average SAT score is 1545 and the average ACT score is 35.

Is Caltech worth the money?

Based on its ranking and cost, California Institute of Technology is in the very top category of high-value schools. First and foremost, Caltech is already one of the best colleges in the nation, and often this means world-class opportunities that are well worth the cost.

Can you get recruited to Caltech?

Recruiting Services is committed to advancing the Institute's distinguished reputation by attracting, recruiting, and supporting individuals who have extraordinary curiosity, talent, and passion that advances the Institute's mission.

How does Harvey Mudd compare to Caltech?

In both areas, Mudd ranked just ahead of Caltech. The study found that 40.7% of Mudd's graduates earn doctoral degrees, compared to 40% at Caltech. In the physical sciences, the study found that 34.4% of Mudd's graduates earn doctorates, compared to 33.7% at Caltech. Both schools ranked far above all others.

How rigorous is Caltech?

Caltech is hard.

We will challenge you to think in new and innovative ways. And we expect you to prepare for that challenge by taking a strong curriculum in high school. In your first year, you'll start our core curriculum, which builds a foundation for all our majors. Showing 6 records.

Is Caltech for geniuses?

Yes, some of our applicants are extraordinary students who have already done extraordinary things. But the vast majority of students admitted to Caltech are exceptional STEM students who are at the beginning of their journey to accomplish the extraordinary.

What do Caltech look for?

Caltech is looking for students with incredible potential in STEM. Potential. There is no prescribed way of getting into Caltech. You don't have to have scientific research or get a Nobel at 12; read more about what you should do to prepare for Caltech.

Why is Caltech acceptance rate so low?

This low acceptance rate is due to the highly competitive nature of the applicant pool. Caltech attracts some of the brightest and most accomplished students from around the world, with a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Does Caltech look at AP scores?

Caltech will accept examination scores or certification showing proof of knowledge in the subject in lieu of a calculus, chemistry, and/or physics course, provided both the student and their counselor must document the underlying unresolvable issue(s). The AP exam must be taken by application deadline.

What are the most popular clubs at Caltech?

California Institute of Technology Student Activities

In fact, more students participate in the Instrumental music groups than any other on-campus activity. Other popular student organizations at California Institute of Technology include Entrepreneurship Club, Glee Club, Theater Arts and Ultimate Disc Club.

Does Caltech care about demonstrated interest?

Note, Caltech does not consider or track demonstrated interest; nor do we track if a student has participated in a visit or information session when evaluating a candidate for admissions.

What do Caltech students do for fun?

Caltech has over 100 official student-led clubs and organizations. Alpine Skiing, Quizbowl, cultural identity organizations, robotics, and the Cheese Society are just a few of our offerings. There's even a Turtle Club.