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Caltech Admissions 2025: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs

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Caltech Admissions
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International students can either select the Common App or the QuestBridge Application to apply for California Institute of Technology admission in 2025. Mentioned below are the application deadlines for UG and PG admission at the university:

  • Early Decision Caltech deadline for undergraduate admission is Nov 01, 2025
  • Caltech University admission deadline for graduate admission varies by program

 

Caltech Admission Overview 2025

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Does the California Institute of Technology accept IELTS?
A: 

Yes, the university also allows IELTS, Dulingo and PTE for international students. Interested applicants can give any of the above English Proficiency tests to support their requirements.check out the below table for the minimum required scores:

English Language proficiency 

Minimum score 

IELTS

7.5 and above in all bands

Dulingo

120 and above 

TOFEL

100 and above

Q:   How much is Caltech's International student fee?
A: 

The Tution fees for international students at the California Institute of Technology can vary depending on the main factors such as course, level of study  (UG and PG) . However, International students considering this university could be a little higher than compared to US  citizens. The UG programme Academic tuition fee for international students is around  ( INR 54.1 L - 56.1 L ) per annum, depending on the course. It’s  (INR 44.9 L - 56.1 L) for PG courses.

Q:   Does Caltech accept Indian students?
A: 

Yes it does, Caltech welcomes international students from all over the world to study at their campus. The University has a diverse community .Caltech offers various UG and PG programs that have been redesigned to cater to the academic needs of international students. However, the university allows International students get admission based on merit no entrance exam required. Lastly, the University is an inclusive and welcoming institution as it provides a safe environment for Indian students regardless of their nationality, colour and background.

Caltech Eligibility and Fees 2025

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   How do I become eligible to pursue courses at Caltech?
A: 

With an acceptance rate of just 3.14%, the California Institute of Technology is highly competitive for international students. This Institute not only looks for academic rigor, but also the extracurricular activities and the applicant's motivation to pursue the Caltech courses. For UG programs, below is the eligibility criteria mentioned: 

  • Completion of both year X and XII state board or CBSE examinations in India. 

  • Strong grades, ideally among the top 10% of class, with a minimum 3.5 GPA (90%)

  • Rigorous Classwork: Applicants must have at least 4 years of Mathematics (including Calculus), one of Chemistry and Physics, 4 years of English, and 2–3 years of social sciences/history.
  • 1 year of Biology as a subject is recommended
Q:   What is the selection criteria at Caltech for international students?
A: 

To study at Caltech, international applicants are generally required to meet certain admission requirements. Below are some of them: 

  • Academic Excellence: One of the most important factors in the Caltech application is the academic record of an applicant. Caltech seeks students with a proven academic track record, including a high GPA, strong performance in standardized tests like the SAT and ACT. 
  • Standardized Tests: There is no minimum standardized test score requirement; however, some of the successful applicants often get a score of 700 or higher on each section of the SAT or 30 or higher on all ACT sections.
  • GPA: The applicants are advised to have a near-perfect GPA of 4.19, as Caltech is extremely competitive with just a 3.1% acceptance rate. 
  • Extracurriculars: The California Institute of Technology looks for well-rounded and holistic profiles. Academics are important; additionally, the identity of an applicant outside of the class. The students who showcase talent and passion. The applicant profile should include research, extracurriculars, or personal projects. 
  • Essays and Recommendations: A strong essay outlining the applicant's personality and motivation for Science and Technology, with strong letters of recommendation from teachers (authorized to assess the applicant's abilities and potential).
Q:   What are the Caltech eligibility requirements for graduate programs?
A: 

The Caltech courses are offered undergraduate and graduate levels across many domains and subjects. With just a 3.14% acceptance rate, international students are required to put their best foot forward by meeting the criteria below: 

  • Bachelor's degree equivalent to a US 4-year degree, with a strong academic record (typically 3.5 GPA/85–90%+)

  • Degree must be in a relevant field aligned with your intended graduate study

  • GRE General Test is often required; competitive scores above 310-320. GRE Subject Test may be required in some programs

  • English proficiency: TOEFL 100+, IELTS 7.0–7.5, Duolingo 120–130

  • Transcripts,  statement of purpose, 2–3 recommendation letters, resume or CV, portfolio (if required), and sometimes research publications or conference presentations
  • Certain programs (e.g., in arts or design) may require auditions or creative portfolios

  • Professional and research experience are advantageous

Caltech Admission Process 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions
Q:   What is a good GRE score for Caltech?
A: 

GRE is not highly required for caltech but however it is in certain courses. The University has termed GRE into three segements that is R for required, O for optional and SR for strongry required. Students must read all the requirements of the courses to avoid the last minutre confusion and hassle.

Want to score good in GRE? Check out GRE preparation tips 

Note: To check out which subjects require GRE, applicants must check the admission highlights and click on the GRE pdf caltech

 

Q:   How to apply for the California Institute of Technology from India?
A: 

To apply for Caltech, Indian applicants can follow the below steps:

Below is the application process to apply for Undergraduate Caltech:

Step 1: To apply to Caltech, applicants can choose the Common application or Questbridge application.

Step 2: Check your requirements thoroughly, and see if your current qualifications are recognised. 

Step 3: You should meet the entry requirements checklist before applying: 

  • Transcripts of your high school.

  • A minimum score of 6.5 and above in IELTS

  • SOP

Step 4: Make sure your English requirements meet the standard of the University.

Step 5: You can submit your application after your requirements are ready.

Step 6: The applicant must pay the application fee of USD 75, which will not be refundable. However, if the applicant can’t afford it, they have a process to waive it. ( Check out how you can waive application fees)

Step 7:  After submitting the application, applicants can check their status by logging in with their credentials through common portal. 

Below is the application process to apply for graduate Caltech:

Step 1: To apply to Caltech applicants can choose the Caltech.com 

Step 2: Check your requirements thoroughly, and see if your current qualifications are recognised. 

Step 3: You should meet the entry requirements checklist before applying: 

  • Transcripts of your degree.

  • 6.5 and above in IELTS.

  • A minimum score of 7.5 and above in IELTS

  • SOP ( Things you need to know about  SOP)

  • LOR ( letter of recommendation)

  • Creative Portfolio ( Audition depending on your chosen course )

  • Resume/ CV

Step 4: Make sure your English requirements meet the standard of the University.

Step 5: You can submit your application after your requirements are ready.

Step 6: The applicant must pay the application fee of USD 75, which will not be refundable. However, if the applicant can’t afford it, they have a process to waive it. ( Check out how you can waive application fees)

Step 7:  After applying, applicants can check their status by logging in with their credentials through the Caltech portal.

Q:   What is the application fee for international students at the California Institute of Technology
A: 

The application fee for international students at Caltech is USD 75 for UG and 100 for PG This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications for the program. The application fee might change. However, keep checking the official Caltech website to avoid confusion before submitting your application forms. 

Caltech University MS Admission 2025

18 courses 1 year - 2 years
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46.6L - 58.2L

iconEligibility Criteria

  • Accepting Exams: TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, IELTS, GRE
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Commonly asked questions
On MS Admissions
Q:   How can we apply for an MS in Aerospace Engineering at California Institute of Technology?
A: 

International students can apply for California Institute of Technology for an MS in Aerospace Engineering using the official website. Applicants whose the highest qualification is a baccalaureate degree equivalent to that given by the Institute are eligible to seek admission to work toward the master's degree. They must provide the proof of English language proficiency and a GRE exam scores to get admission to Caltech MS in Aerospace Engineering course. Mentioned below are the California Institute of Technology application process for admission:

Step 1: Visit 'applyweb.com/caltgapp' and create an account to start the application.

Step 2: Submit details and select MS programme to start a new application.

Step 3: Now, submit your academic history and test scores (IELTS/TOEFL).

Step 4: Submit an essay, personal statement, and other documents.

Step 5: Pay the Caltech University application fee to submit the application.

Q:   What are the requirements for MSc course in Caltech?
A: 

Below are the requirements for MSc course at Caltech :

LOR: M.Sc course needs  a LOR, and with particular exceptions, who should write those letters. 

Statement of purpose ( an SOP): An SOP is essential for the application process for Caltech. It helps the applicant to convey their talents, Academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants. 

Transcripts and degrees: the applicant must provide the university with transcripts of their academics with degree certificates. Similarly, applying for PhD or doctoral programme may require a master’s degree and transcripts from all graduate institutions of the applicant. 

English Language Proficiency exams: The following table explains the minimum score of each English exam the university is expecting: 

English Language proficiency 

Minimum score 

IELTS

7.5 and above in all bands

Dulingo

120 and above 

TOFEL

100 and above

  •     Entrance exam: Graduate school entrance exams are most common, but however, the programs might require different exams from the applicants depending on the course chosen by the individual. However, GRE is optional and not compulsory at Caltech but applicants can submit their scores if they have given the test. 

  • Resume/CV:  The University also might ask you for a CV or a resume depending on the course you choose for professional experience.

Q:   What is the application fee for the MSc course Caltech?
A: 

The application fee for international students applying for MSc courses is  USD 100. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications for the program. The application fee might change. However, keep checking the official Caltech website to avoid confusion before submitting your application forms. 

Caltech Application Process 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Application Process
Q:   What is the acceptance rate for Caltech?
A: 

The acceptance rate of the California Institute of Technology is 3%. The university Admission process involves a thorough evaluation process, which means only 4 students are selected out of 100 applicants. This indicates Caltech is a very selective institution. Caltech also Considers academic excellence, essays, Letter of recommendation, SOP, extracurricular activities and many more. Applicants are suggested to approach the admission process with utter dedication, showcasing their strengths and talents to get into Caltech.

Q:   What is the application deadline for the California Institute of Technology?
A: 

International students can apply for Caltech admissions before the deadline to increase their chances of getting into the university. The application deadlines at Caltech are different for both undergraduate and graduate programs for international students. Below are California Institute of Technology admission deadlines:

 
Deadline TypeDeadline
UG Early DecisionNov 01, 2025
PG Fall 2026Dec 15, 2025
Q:   What are the California Institute of Technology requirements for international students?
A: 

Below are the requirements for international students at the California Institute of Technology:

  • Transcripts of your high school: Transcripts include your information and performance in high school, and Caltech University wants its applicants to have the following:

  1. A four-year maths, including one year of Calculus

  2. 1 year of chemistry

  3. 1 year of physics(preferably Calcus related but not required) 

  • SOP: An SOP is essential for the application process for Caltech It helps the applicant to convey their talents, Academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants.

  • Portfolio:  This depends on the course the applicant chooses, as this is not present in every program. However, having a creative and unique portfolio will help you get into Caltech. 

Click here to: Make your portfolio look better)

  • English requirements: The following table explains the minimum score for each English exam the university is excepting: 

English Language proficiency 

Minimum score 

IELTS

7.5 and above in all bands

Dulingo 

120 and above  (125 recommended) 

TOFEL

100 and above

PG Course Requirements: 

  • LOR: Some programs ask for a LOR, and with particular exceptions, who should write those letters. 

  • Statement of purpose( an SOP): An SOP is essential for the application process for Caltech. It helps the applicant to convey their talents, Academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants. 

  • Transcripts and degrees: the applicant must provide the university with transcripts of their academics with degree certificates. Similarly, applying for PhD or doctoral program may require a master’s degree and transcripts from all graduate institutions of the applicant. 

  • English Language Proficiency exams: The following table explains the minimum score of each English exam the university is expecting: 

English Language proficiency 

Minimum score 

IELTS

7.5 and above in all bands

Dulingo

120 and above 

TOFEL

100 and above

  •     Entrance exam: Graduate school entrance exams are most common, but however, the programs might require different exams from the applicants depending on the course chosen by the individual. 

  • Resume/CV:  The University also might ask you for a CV or a resume depending on the course you choose for professional experience.

Caltech University Enrollment Statistics 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Admission
Q:   Is Caltech the most academically difficult university?
A: 

Caltech is known for being very selective about who they accept. For the academic year 2022-2023, the university received an applications of 16,000, however out of that only 448 students were accepted, which means Caltech University acceptance rate of just 2.69%. This low late shows how competatitive it is to get into Caltech. The university fouses on Engineering and Sciences making it more challenging. Hence we can conclude by saying Caltech is most academically difficult university. 

Q:   What are the interesting facts about Caltech?
A: 

Below are some cool facts about Caltech University:

  • Caltech is one of the best universities to do reasearch at as, it's a top reasearch university and has a rich history of Novel Laureates, Space exploration and famous alumni.
  • Caltech is a home for NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
  • Caltech has the world the largest optical telescope
  • Caltech is one of the only universities which has an acceptance of just 2.6%. Hence it's known for rigorous academic and selective admisison process. 
Q:   What experiences or qualifications helped applicants get into Caltech?
A: 

To be admitted to the Caltech , it is recommended to have a strong academic profile, including competitive scores in the GMAT or GREs.  However, the admission process at Caltech takes a holistic approach, considering multiple factors in the student's profile. These factors include Leadership, Work experience, essays, LOR and interviews that the students give during their admission process. 

Caltech Admissions 2025 FAQs

Q:   How much does California Institute of Technology cost for international students?
A: 

California Institute of Technology cost vary by housing and living type for international students. Applicants can select either on-campus or off-campus housing to study at the university. The table bleow includes the Catalina Apartments monthly rates:

Type of Housing

Cost for 2025-26

Four-bedroom Quad - Furnished

USD 750 or INR 65,344 per bed

Two-bedroom Double - Furnished

USD 895 or INR 77,977 per bed

One-bedroom Single - Furnished

USD 1,510 or INR 1.31 L per bed

Mentioned below is the Off-Campus housing monthly rates:

Type of Housing

Cost for 2025-26

Studio Apt. Single - Furnished

USD 1,140 or INR 99,322 per apt.

One-bedroom Apt. - Unfurnished

USD 1,250 or INR 109 L per apt.

Two-bedroom Apt. - Unfurnished

USD 1,680 or INR 1.46 L per apt.

(USD 1 = INR 87.13)

Q:   Is Caltech better than MIT?
A: 

Caltech and MIT both rank among world's top universities, with slight variations in rankings depending on criteria. Caltech excels in Science and engineeirng and has a high number of nobel winners who focu on theorectical reasearch. MIT is similarly renowened institution for it's strength in science, pratical application and enreprenurship. However the choice between Caltech and MIT depends on individual preferences, but in terms of ranking and reputation MIT takes a step higher then Caltech. But, ultimatley both the institutions focus on hand on innovation in reasearch and surely both the universities are great for students. 

Q:   Which is better for research, IIT in India or Caltech?
A: 

Choosing between IIT in India and Caltech for reasearch depends on individual preferences and goals. While Caltech has garnered more Nobel Prizes in Theoritical thesis, reasearch and many more. However, both the universities offer a significant reasearch opportunities.Caltech's renowed reputation in Science and Engineering, along with its small class sizes and focus on theoretical reasearch, may appeal to some. 

On the other hand, IIT provides a diverse reasearch environment with a wide range of disciplines on individual dedication, resouces and good collabs. Hence both the universities are great, depending on what the individual is looking for. 

Q:   What are the requirements for the BSc course at California Institute of Technology?
A: 

Students applying for BSc courses at Caltech need to have the below requirements ready before applying to the Caltech. 

  • LOR:  BSc requiresLOR, and with particular exceptions, who should write those letters and the university asks faculty to write the LOR’s for high school students
  • Statement of purpose ( an SOP): An SOP is essential for the application process for Caltech. It helps the applicant to convey their talents, Academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants. 
  • Transcripts of high school: the applicant must provide the university with transcripts of their academics with high school certificates. 
  • English Language Proficiency exams: The following table explains the minimum score of each English exam the university is expecting: 

English Language proficiency 

Minimum score 

IELTS

7.5 and above in all bands

Dulingo

120 and above 

TOFEL

100 and above

  • Entrance exam: Graduate school entrance exams are most common, but however, the programs might require different exams from the applicants depending on the course chosen by the individual. 

  • Resume/CV:  The University also might ask you for a CV or a resume depending on the course you choose for professional experience.



Q:   Is the MSc in Computer Science course good at the California Institute of Technology?
A: 

The Computer Science course at Caltech has consistently demonstrated its excellence in recent years according to THE rankings. In 2021 the University was in 25 positions. However, there has been a drastic climb in the ranking to 13th position in 2022. However, we could witness a small dip in 2022, but we can see the improvement. But applicants considering Caltech surely could consider it mainly because it’s in the top 20 Universities across the globe. 

Ranked By

2021

2022

2023

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science [6]

25

13

19

Q:   Is the University of California Institute expensive for international students?
A: 

The cost of attending the California Institute of Technology can vary depending on the main factors such as course, level of study (UG and PG) and accommodation status. However, International students considering this university could be a little higher than compared to US  citizens. The UG programme Academic tuition fee for international students is around ( INR 44.8 L - 46.3 L ) per annum, depending on the course. It’s (INR 43.1 L - 48 L) for PG programs

Q:   What is the application fee for a BSc course at the California Institute of Technology?
A: 

The application fee for international students applying for BSc computer Science courses is  USD 75. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications for the program. The application fee might change. However, keep checking the official Caltech website to avoid confusion before submitting your application forms. 

Q:   My goal is to pursue research in STEM field after graduation. Should I choose Caltech or Stanford University?
A: 

Choosing between Caltech and Stanford for pursuing STEM field after graduation ultimatley depends on individual preferences and goals, Stanford University ranks slightly higher in overall QS ranking for Science and Technology courses, standing at number 2 compared tp Caltech number 9 position. But, both the universities are globally renowed for STEM courses. Students are requested to consider factors like campus culture, Faculty, or specififc research interests which the student has. Overall both the universities comes under the top 10 universities in USA and surely can preffer both for STEM course. 

Q:   What is the application fee for international students at the California Institute of Technology
A: 

The application fee for international students at Caltech is USD 75 for UG and 100 for PG This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications for the program. The application fee might change. However, keep checking the official Caltech website to avoid confusion before submitting your application forms. 

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Loveleen is a seasoned content writer with 4+ years of experience, currently writing for Shiksha. When he is not writing and helping students, he can be found at the movies, reading fiction, and learning a new language.
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