Guide to Applying to California Institute of Technology as an International Student for an Undergraduate Degree
Founded in 1891, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a privately renowned world-class institution. Situated in the suburbs of California, Caltech is home to some of the brilliant and aspiring minds of the science and engineering field. The institute also works with NASA and is responsible for sending probes to space for the studies of other planets in the solar system. Caltech also owns some parts of famous laboratories to conduct researches in the astronomical field.
With the 3:1 student to teacher ratio, the institute welcomes applications from international students too. The international office is intended to help students from all over the world to guide them with the application process. Here is a guide for you on how to apply to the California Institute of Technology as an international student for an undergraduate degree.
English Proficiency Test Requirements
International students whose native language isn’t English need to submit their language proficiency test scores. Caltech accepts the following tests:
- TOEFL iBT
- Duolingo English Test
Please note that, unlike other US universities, Caltech doesn’t accept IELTS scores. Also, there are no minimum requirements for English proficiency exams.
ACT/SAT Requirements
Caltech has temporarily halted the SAT and ACT testing requirements for students applying for admission to Fall 2021 and Fall 2022. If not for the global pandemic, international applicants need the following minimum scores:
| Test | Score Range | Average Score Required |
| ACT | 1-36 | 34-36 |
| SAT | 400-1600 | 1530-1600 |
Tuition Fee and Cost of Living
The estimated annual cost at Caltech is mentioned below, both in US Dollars and Indian rupees.:
| Annual Cost | In US Dollars | In Indian Rupees |
| Tuition Fee | $ 49,908 | ₹ 34,93,560 |
| Living Expenses | $ 19,493 | ₹ 13,64,510 |
| Total | $ 69,401 | ₹ 48,58,070 |
The conversion from USD to INR has been made with $1 = ₹70. The cost may vary with the varying exchange rate.
The estimates given above are just for reference, and you should always confirm on the university’s official website before you apply.
Application Portal
Caltech accepts applications via any of these two portals: Common Application or Coalition Application along with the supplemental application essays. Caltech is also a QuestBridge partner which allows students to apply through the QuestBridge National College Match. The cost of the application is $75.
Essay Prompts
In addition to the personal essays, the applicants need to complete the supplemental short-answer essays. Below are the essay prompts:
Prompt 1:
Word Limit: 10-120 words
“Describe three experiences and/or activities that have helped develop your passion for a possible career in a STEM field.”
Prompt 2:
Word Limit: 250-400 words
“Much like the life of a professional scientist or engineer, the life of a “Techer” relies heavily on collaboration. Knowing this, what do you hope to explore, innovate, or create with your Caltech peers?”
Prompt 3:
Word Limit: 250-400 words
“Caltech students are often known for their sense of humor and creative pranks. What do you like to do for fun?”
Prompt 4:
Word Limit: 250-400 words
“The process of discovery best advances when people from various backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives come together. How do you see yourself contributing to the diversity of Caltech’s community?”
Reference: https://www.admissions.caltech.edu/apply/first-year-freshman-applicants/supplemental-application-essays
College Application Deadlines
An applicant can apply to Caltech under two categories, namely, Early Action or Regular Decision. The tentative application deadlines are given below:
| Early Action | Regular Decision | |
| Apply by | November 1 | January 3 |
| Admission Notification | Mid-December | Mid-March |
You can easily keep a check on the deadlines of universities via Uni Deadlines feature of UniRely.
Conclusion
Caltech admits a limited number of students in the institute which makes the competition tough. Every student in Caltech is focused to do something notable for society. The institute is also home to 39 Noble prizes. With an acceptance rate of 8.1%, the institute is a dream college for many!
What better way than to know about a college than from a current student studying there? Here at UniRely, we will help you get in touch with a student mentor currently studying at Caltech who will guide you on the application process. Sign up at UniRely today!
