Caltech Acceptance Rate 2026

Quick Answer

Caltech’s acceptance rate for the 2026 class stands at an extraordinarily competitive 2.57%, making it one of the most selective institutions in the United States. With a total annual tuition of $65,898 and an average net price of $16,075 after financial aid, Caltech remains accessible to qualified students regardless of financial background. Graduates earn a median of $128,566 ten years after enrollment, reflecting the institution’s reputation for producing leaders in science, engineering, and technology.

Acceptance Snapshot

Caltech’s admission process is among the most selective in higher education. As of April 2026, the institution reported an acceptance rate of 2.57%, meaning fewer than 3 out of every 100 applicants gain admission. This ultra-competitive rate reflects Caltech’s rigorous academic standards and its position as a world-leading research university.

The small student body—just 987 undergraduates—contributes to Caltech’s intimate academic environment and highly selective admissions process. With such a limited number of spots available, the institute can be exceptionally choosy about which applicants it admits, prioritizing students with exceptional mathematical and scientific aptitude, demonstrated research interests, and intellectual curiosity.

This acceptance rate represents the continued exclusivity of Caltech’s undergraduate program. Prospective students should approach their application with realistic expectations while understanding that even exceptional academic credentials do not guarantee admission at this elite institution.

SAT & ACT Scores

Note: Detailed 25th-75th percentile SAT and ACT score data was not available in the current dataset. Prospective students should consult Caltech’s official admissions website for the most current standardized testing information, as these metrics are critical for understanding the academic profile of admitted students.

Tuition & Costs

Caltech’s tuition is uniform regardless of residency status, reflecting its private institution status. For the 2026 academic year:

• Tuition: $65,898 per year
• Average Net Price After Aid: $16,075 per year

The average net price represents what students pay after accounting for institutional grant aid, making Caltech significantly more affordable than the sticker price suggests. This figure demonstrates Caltech’s commitment to making a world-class education accessible to talented students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

Financial Aid Overview

Caltech is renowned for its generous financial aid policies. The average net price of $16,075 reflects the institution’s commitment to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of admitted students. This means that families earning modest incomes may pay substantially less than the published tuition rate, while even affluent families benefit from institutional support.

The significant gap between tuition ($65,898) and average net price ($16,075) indicates that Caltech awards substantial grant aid to its students. The institute does not use loans in its financial aid packages for most students, instead meeting demonstrated need through grants that do not require repayment.

For students admitted to Caltech, financial constraints should not be a barrier to enrollment. The institute’s need-blind admission policy and commitment to meeting full demonstrated need ensure that admitted students can afford to attend.

Graduation Rates

Caltech boasts an exceptional four-year graduation rate of 93.76%, well above the national average. This extraordinarily high completion rate reflects multiple factors: the academic preparation of admitted students, the institution’s robust support systems, and the motivating effect of Caltech’s renowned curriculum and research opportunities.

The 93.76% graduation rate indicates that nearly all admitted students who enroll complete their degree within four years. This is significantly higher than the national average for four-year institutions, underscoring Caltech’s success in supporting student success and completion.

Post-Graduation Earnings

Caltech graduates achieve exceptional earnings outcomes. The median earnings ten years after entry are $128,566, reflecting the strong market demand for Caltech-trained scientists and engineers. This figure places Caltech among the highest-earning undergraduate institutions in the nation.

These earnings reflect the value employers place on Caltech’s rigorous education and the specialized skills graduates develop in mathematics, physics, engineering, chemistry, and biology. Many Caltech alumni pursue advanced degrees and careers in high-paying fields such as aerospace engineering, software development, and research science.

Popular Majors

Note: Detailed enrollment data by major was not available in the current dataset. Caltech’s undergraduate program emphasizes core coursework in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, with opportunities for specialization. For current information on available majors and degree programs, prospective students should visit Caltech’s academic programs page.

Demographics

Note: Detailed demographic enrollment data by race, ethnicity, and gender was not included in the current dataset. Caltech maintains a diverse student body and publishes detailed demographic information on its official website. Prospective students should consult the admissions office for current enrollment statistics.

FAQ

What is Caltech’s acceptance rate for 2026?

Caltech’s acceptance rate for the 2026 class is 2.57%, making it one of the most selective universities in the world. This means that fewer than 3 out of every 100 applicants are admitted.

How much does Caltech cost?

Caltech’s tuition is $65,898 per year. However, the average net price after financial aid is $16,075, meaning most students pay significantly less than the published tuition rate. Caltech meets the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students.

Is Caltech affordable for middle-class families?

Yes. Caltech’s average net price of $16,075 is substantially lower than tuition, and the institution practices need-blind admission and meets full demonstrated need without loans for most students. Families earning various income levels typically find Caltech affordable.

What do Caltech graduates earn?

Caltech graduates earn a median of $128,566 ten years after enrollment, among the highest of any undergraduate institution. This reflects the strong demand for Caltech-trained scientists and engineers in technology, aerospace, research, and other high-paying sectors.

How selective is Caltech’s admissions process?

With a 2.57% acceptance rate and only 987 undergraduate students, Caltech is extraordinarily selective. The institution seeks students with exceptional mathematical and scientific ability, demonstrated research interests, and intellectual curiosity. Even students with perfect test scores and GPAs may not gain admission.

What is Caltech’s graduation rate?

Caltech’s four-year graduation rate is 93.76%, significantly above the national average. This exceptional completion rate reflects the preparation of admitted students and Caltech’s strong support systems.

Should I apply to Caltech if I’m interested in STEM?

If you have a strong passion for science, mathematics, or engineering and exceptional academic credentials, Caltech is worth considering. However, given the 2.57% acceptance rate, applicants should have realistic expectations and maintain a balanced college list that includes schools where admission is more likely.

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Data Sources

The statistics and figures in this article come from the U.S. Department of Education’s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard, with data current as of April 2026. Prospective students should verify all information directly with Caltech’s admissions office, as institutional data is updated regularly and specific program details may vary. For the most current acceptance rates, test score ranges, financial aid information, and demographic data, visit Caltech’s official admissions website.