Caltech Diversity Statistics: An Overview

Discover the diversity at Caltech through its statistics! Caltech, or the California Institute of Technology, is a prestigious private research university in Pasadena, California. Known for its focus on science and engineering, it’s among the top-ranked universities in these fields globally.

Caltech has a close research collaboration and manages the Jet Propulsion Laboratory for NASA, significantly contributing to space exploration.

The academic programs are rigorous, especially in STEM areas. Caltech is also famous for its unique traditions and strong community. Many of its alumni and faculty are noted for major contributions in various scientific fields, including Nobel Prize winners.

How many students attend the Caltech?

As of the 2023-24 academic year diversity statistics, Caltech has a total student population of 2,463, consisting of 1,023 undergraduates and 1,440 graduates. 

This is an increase from the 2021-2022 academic year, where there were 987 undergraduate and 1,410 graduate students. Caltech is known for its low student-to-faculty ratio, which is one of the lowest in the United States.

With over 300 faculty members, the university offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum to its student body. Specifically, the ratio of students to faculty for undergraduates is 3:1, highlighting the personalized and intensive academic environment at Caltech.

Caltech Undergraduate Population

The total number of undergraduate students enrolled at Caltech is 1,023 according to its diversity statistics.

Caltech has an impressive 81% four-year graduation rate, indicating a high level of student success and efficient degree completion. In the classroom, 71% of classes have fewer than 20 students, allowing for more personalized attention and interaction in the learning process.

In the 2024 diversity statistics, Caltech stands out in several categories. It’s tied for 7th in National Universities, reflecting its overall excellence in higher education. The university also ranks 10th in Best Value Schools, indicating a strong return on investment for students. Notably, Caltech is tied for 5th in Engineering Programs at the doctorate level, showcasing its strength in this field.

However, gaining admission is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of just 3%. This selectivity underscores the university’s prestige and the high caliber of its student body.

Regarding majors, Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services are the most popular, followed by Engineering and Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians, Physical Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, and Biological and Biomedical Sciences.

Caltech Graduate Population

According to Caltech’s diversity statistics, the total number of students in graduate programs is 1,440. 

This is in contrast to the undergraduate population, which also numbers 1,023. This indicates a slightly larger graduate student community compared to the undergraduate group at the university.

Caltech International Student Population

Caltech has a substantial international student community, totaling approximately 683 students. The majority of these international students hail from China, India, and Canada, making up a significant portion of the student body.

In terms of diversity among domestic students, those who identify with historically underrepresented racial or ethnic groups comprise a notable part of the student population according to Caltech’s statistics report. Among undergraduates, 269 students, or 30% of all domestic undergraduates, fall into this category.

Similarly, in the graduate student body, 145 students, which is 19% of all domestic graduate students, belong to historically underrepresented racial or ethnic groups.

Caltech Gender Distribution

The gender distribution data at Caltech provides insight into the composition of its student body in terms of gender across both undergraduate and graduate levels. For undergraduates, the total number of students is 1,023, split between females and males.

There are 443 female students, constituting 43% of the undergraduate population. On the other hand, male students number 580, making up 57% of the undergraduate group. This indicates a higher proportion of males compared to females at the undergraduate level.

In the graduate programs, the total student count is 1,440. Out of these, 515 students are female, representing 36% of the graduate population. Male graduate students are more prevalent, with 925 students making up 64% of the graduate student body. This data shows a similar trend to the undergraduate level, with male students being the majority, though the disparity is more pronounced among graduate students.

According to diversity statistics, this data highlight the gender composition at Caltech, with a consistently higher percentage of male students compared to female students in both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Caltech Age Distribution

The table and chart below display the distribution of student enrollment by age at the California Institute of Technology:

This illustrates a typical age progression, with undergraduates mostly in their late teens to early twenties, and graduate students predominantly in their mid-twenties to early thirties. The presence of a small number of younger undergraduates and older graduate students highlights the diverse range of student ages at Caltech, accommodating early starters and those pursuing higher education later in life.

Caltech Diversity Statistics and Racial/Ethnic Demographics

At Caltech, the composition of the student body reveals distinct patterns in terms of ethnicity and nationality at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The undergraduate population is primarily composed of Asian American and White students. In contrast, the graduate student body includes a higher proportion of international students, indicating a diverse global presence at this advanced academic level.

Undergraduate Student Ethnicity

Graduate Student Ethnicity

This contrast points to a notable shift in the representation of different ethnic groups from the undergraduate to the graduate levels. The pronounced increase in international students among the graduate population underscores Caltech’s esteemed international standing in the realms of advanced education and research. This global appeal is a testament to the institute’s reputation and the quality of its programs.

Despite the presence of diversity at both levels of study, the representation of certain groups, specifically Hispanic/Latinx, Black or African American, and other minority demographics remains relatively modest.

This diversity as reflected in its statistics report suggests that while Caltech is a melting pot of various nationalities and ethnic backgrounds, certain groups are not as prominently represented as others. The data highlights Caltech’s diverse academic environment while also pointing to areas where there might be room for increased inclusivity and representation.

Caltech Racial/Ethnic Diversity Among Faculty

The composition of faculty at Caltech reveals a significant predominance of White members, who form over half of the academic staff. Following them, albeit with a considerable gap, is the Asian faculty group, representing a significant portion but still much smaller in comparison to their White counterparts.

However, when it comes to the representation of Black or African American, Multi-Ethnic, and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander faculty, the numbers are markedly lower. This discrepancy highlights a notable lack of diversity within these specific racial and ethnic categories.

The relatively small proportions of faculty from minority groups, such as Black or African American, Multi-Ethnic, and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, when compared to the White and Asian faculty, suggest potential areas for improvement in diversity and inclusivity. This disparity indicates that there may be opportunities for Caltech to enhance its efforts in diversifying faculty recruitment and representation.

While Caltech’s faculty does exhibit some level of racial and ethnic diversity, the distribution is heavily skewed toward White and Asian members. These statistics in the diversity report suggest that, despite some strides in diversity, there is room for growth in creating a more balanced and diverse faculty body in Caltech, particularly in terms of increasing the representation of traditionally underrepresented groups.

Caltech Geographic Diversity

Caltech’s student body and academic community exhibit a diverse range of backgrounds and identities, both geographically and in terms of racial and gender representation.

A significant portion of Caltech’s students come from beyond California’s borders, with 70.75% hailing from other states and 9.36% from countries outside the United States according to diversity statistics. This distribution speaks to the wide appeal of Caltech, attracting a student body from 35 different states in the U.S. and representing 71 countries globally. While a majority of U.S.-based students are from California, the diverse geographic origins contribute to a rich and varied cultural environment on campus.

When it comes to racial and ethnic diversity, Caltech’s student body includes 22.95% Asian, 10.58% Hispanic, 5.36% Multi-Ethnic, and 1.03% Black or African American students. This mix highlights a varied ethnic composition, though it also points to areas where certain groups, like Black or African American students, are less represented.

The presence of international individuals, including students, faculty, postdoctoral scholars, and staff, is notable, making up 20.6% of the community. This international representation adds a global perspective to the academic and social environment at Caltech.

Those who identify as female constitute 41.6% of the community, indicating a significant gender representation. Furthermore, 20.9% of the community members, encompassing students and staff at all levels, come from groups that are underrepresented in their fields, pointing towards efforts to foster inclusivity and diversity in the academic sphere.

Caltech Financial Diversity

Caltech places a strong emphasis on promoting financial diversity within its student body.

A study analyzing anonymous tax records indicates that the median family income for a Caltech student is approximately $146,300, with a majority, about 69%, coming from the top 20% income bracket. Despite this, there is evidence of economic mobility, as 3.2% of students from low-income backgrounds have progressed to becoming financially successful adults.

Caltech’s commitment to financial diversity is also evident in its broad spectrum of financial aid and scholarship offerings. These initiatives are designed to ensure that students from all economic backgrounds have the opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations at Caltech. The institution’s efforts extend beyond financial support; they include celebrating advancements in diversity and inclusion in areas such as recruitment and admissions. This approach demonstrates Caltech’s dedication to creating a diverse and equitable academic environment.

Through these measures, Caltech demonstrates its strong commitment to financial diversity, making sure that every talented student, regardless of their financial background, can pursue their educational dreams.

How diverse and inclusive is Caltech?

Caltech is dedicated to providing a diverse and inclusive environment among its community, including students, faculty, and staff. The university offers a variety of resources to support students from different backgrounds.

These resources include financial aid, scholarships, mentorship programs, and specialized services. The student body at Caltech is diverse, representing a range of socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds. Caltech strives to promote equity, improve diversity statistics, and create an inclusive atmosphere where everyone can prosper.

To further this goal, Caltech has launched several initiatives:

• Caltech Center for Inclusion and Diversity (CCID)

The CCID is an integral part of Caltech, focused on improving the experience for everyone in the community. It does this through educational programs, supporting various causes, and forming alliances. Serving as a central point for different groups and initiatives, the CCID provides a range of workshops and opportunities to develop skills. These efforts are all aimed at fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment at Caltech.

• Questbridge Membership

Caltech participates in Questbridge, which is a scholarship program designed for students who excel academically but come from low-income backgrounds. Through this program, Caltech offers significant financial aid to qualified students. This support helps ensure that students with high academic potential have the opportunity to study at Caltech, regardless of their financial situation.

• 100% Need-Met Guarantee

Caltech is dedicated to meeting the complete financial needs of its applicants. This means that the institution is committed to making sure that financial challenges do not prevent qualified students from pursuing their educational goals. Caltech strives to remove financial barriers, allowing students to focus on their academic achievements without worrying about affordability.

Caltech places a strong emphasis on creating welcoming and inclusive spaces within research and work settings. The institution acknowledges the significance of having diverse perspectives and backgrounds in these environments, as it leads to increased innovation and creativity. Caltech is dedicated to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, feels valued and included, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and successful community.

Caltech emphasizes that advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion is a collective effort, crucial for the institution’s growth and contribution to the public good.

Caltech’s centers and programs dedicated to diversity and inclusion, such as CCID, aim to create a community where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive. These initiatives include various educational and training programs:

Training Sessions for Research Labs, Staff Teams, and Academic Divisions: The Caltech Center for Inclusion and Diversity (CCID) offers valuable training sessions for various groups within the university, including research labs, staff teams, and academic divisions. These sessions focus on important subjects like inclusive leadership. The goal is to improve and promote inclusive practices in these settings. Through these sessions, individuals can gain skills and knowledge that foster an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued.

• Student-Faculty Programs (SFP)

SFP, in partnership with the Caltech Center for Inclusion and Diversity (CCID), provides specialized training to various groups, including faculty, postdoctoral scholars, and graduate students. The primary aim of this program is to promote inclusive mentorship and advising practices. Through this training, participants learn how to effectively mentor and advise students from diverse backgrounds, creating an environment where all students can thrive academically and personally.

• Workshops and Skill-Building Opportunities

The Caltech Center for Inclusion and Diversity (CCID) provides a variety of workshops and resources designed to help build a fair and inclusive community. These workshops and resources offer valuable learning experiences and practical skills to support the goal of creating a diverse and welcoming environment for everyone.

These programs and initiatives underscore Caltech’s commitment to creating an environment that supports diversity and inclusion, ensuring all members can excel and contribute to the institution’s excellence.

Is diversity important at Caltech?

The institution recognizes that diversity brings significant benefits to the educational experience, such as promoting innovation and preparing students to address the complex challenges of our global society.

Caltech is deeply committed to creating a campus community that embraces individuals from various cultures, genders, races, religions, socioeconomic backgrounds, and sexual orientations. This commitment extends to ensuring that women are well-represented in leadership positions and decision-making processes within the faculty and administration.

Caltech wants to be a model of how a diverse and inclusive community, driven by principles of equity, enables individuals to excel in fulfilling the Institute’s mission of leading-edge research and education. This commitment to diversity and inclusion is clearly reflected in Caltech’s efforts to recruit and admit a more diverse undergraduate class, as reflected in its statistics.

Caltech has adopted a strategic approach to enhance diversity, inclusion, equity, and access in its recruitment and admissions processes. These efforts have yielded positive results, leading to a more diverse composition within the undergraduate student body.

To make sure that all students have equal opportunities for academic success, Caltech offers a wide range of financial aid options and scholarships. These resources are designed to support students from various economic backgrounds in achieving their academic and personal goals.

These measures underscore Caltech’s unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion among its community members. The institution firmly believes that these principles are essential in creating a supportive and equitable environment where students from all walks of life can thrive academically and personally.

Clubs at Caltech that promote diversity

Caltech has several clubs and organizations that promote diversity and inclusion, including:

Black Ladies Association of Caltech (BLAC)

The Black Ladies Association of Caltech, also known as BLAC, is a supportive community within Caltech that specifically caters to Black women at the institution. BLAC serves as an affinity group that offers mentorship, guidance, and a strong sense of belonging to its members. It plays a crucial role in creating a supportive environment for Black women within the university.

This group is part of Caltech’s broader commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. It is one of several affinity groups at Caltech that share the common goal of fostering a more inclusive environment for underrepresented members of the university community. These affinity groups provide valuable resources, mentorship opportunities, and a platform for individuals to connect and build a sense of community.

The presence of BLAC and the university’s active support for such affinity groups reflect Caltech’s dedication to cultivating a diverse and supportive campus community. These efforts align with the institution’s broader commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusion, as evidenced by the university’s ongoing initiatives and commitment to providing a welcoming environment for all its members.

Black Scientists & Engineers of Caltech (BSEC/NSBE)

The Black Scientists & Engineers of Caltech (BSEC/NSBE) is a supportive and inclusive community within Caltech that is specifically designed to cater to Black scientists and engineers at the institution. This affinity group plays a crucial role in providing support, mentorship, and a strong sense of community for its members, who are Black individuals pursuing careers in the fields of science and engineering.

BSEC/NSBE’s existence is part of Caltech’s broader commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the university. It is one of several affinity groups at Caltech that share the common goal of fostering a more inclusive environment for underrepresented individuals within the campus community. These affinity groups serve as valuable resources and platforms for connection, offering mentorship opportunities and space for individuals to build meaningful connections and support networks.

The presence of BSEC/NSBE and the active support it receives from the university reflect Caltech’s unwavering dedication to nurturing a diverse and supportive campus community. These efforts align with the institution’s overarching commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion, as evidenced by ongoing initiatives aimed at providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of the Caltech community.

Caltech Feminist Club

The Caltech Feminist Club is an organization at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) that focuses on promoting gender equality, advocating for women’s rights, and addressing issues related to feminism. This club provides a platform for individuals at Caltech to come together and engage in discussions, activities, and initiatives that revolve around feminism and its various aspects.

Members of the Caltech Feminist Club work collaboratively to raise awareness about gender-related topics, challenge stereotypes and biases, and support efforts aimed at achieving gender equity both on and off the Caltech campus. This club serves as a space where individuals can share their perspectives, learn from one another, and actively contribute to the ongoing dialogue on gender equality.

The Caltech Feminist Club’s presence highlights the university’s commitment to fostering a campus environment that is inclusive, diverse, and responsive to the concerns and aspirations of its community members. Through its activities and initiatives, this club plays an important role in advancing discussions and actions related to feminism and gender equality within the Caltech community.

Caltech Safe Zone (Tech Zone)

Caltech Safe Zone, often referred to as Tech Zone, is an initiative and program at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) aimed at creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals within the Caltech community. This program is designed to provide support, resources, and a sense of community for LGBTQ+ students, faculty, staff, and allies.

Tech Zone offers various resources and training opportunities to help educate members of the Caltech community about LGBTQ+ issues, terminology, and experiences. It also provides a network of individuals who are committed to being allies and advocates for LGBTQ+ individuals. These allies are often referred to as “Safe Zone Allies.”

The presence of Tech Zone within Caltech reflects the university’s dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion for all community members, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is a visible symbol of the university’s commitment to having a campus where LGBTQ+ individuals can thrive academically, personally, and socially.

Caltech Society of Women Engineers (SWE) 

The Caltech Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is a student organization at Caltech that is affiliated with the national Society of Women Engineers, a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide valuable resources and support to women in the field of engineering. It focuses on outreach efforts aimed at inspiring young girls to explore and pursue careers in engineering.

The Caltech SWE chapter actively participates in a variety of events, including the prestigious National SWE Conference. This conference serves as a platform for female students studying engineering at Caltech to come together, connect, and provide support to each other. Furthermore, it serves as an opportunity for engagement in outreach activities to encourage and mentor young girls who are interested in the field of engineering.

Caltech Women in Chemistry (WIC)

The Caltech Women in Chemistry (WIC) is a committee and student-led organization that has a clear mission: to provide unwavering support for women pursuing careers in the field of chemistry and related sciences at Caltech. The primary focus of this group is to create a robust support system for women in chemistry, and they achieve this through various means.

One of the core activities of the WIC is to offer valuable resources and mentorship opportunities to women who are dedicated to advancing their careers in chemistry. This includes guidance, advice, and support to help them navigate the challenges and opportunities that come their way.

The WIC serves as a platform for fostering a closely-knit and supportive community for women in the field of chemistry. They understand the importance of having a network of like-minded individuals who can share experiences and provide encouragement along the way.

To actively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, the WIC organizes a range of events, seminars, and initiatives. These activities are designed to create an environment where everyone feels valued and included, regardless of their background.

Robogals

Robogals is an organization with a presence at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) as part of its North America (NA) region. Robogals operates on a global scale and is entirely student-run, driven by a noble mission to inspire and educate young students, with a particular emphasis on young girls.

The organization’s primary goal is to ignite the interest of young women in pursuing studies in engineering and related fields. They achieve this through a dynamic approach that includes robotics workshops, lively competitions, and interactive hands-on learning experiences.

The Caltech chapter of Robogals is an integral part of a vast network that spans over 30 universities worldwide. This network extends across countries such as Australia, Canada, the UK, the USA, Japan, China, South Africa, New Zealand, and the Philippines. At its core, Robogals is powered by dedicated university student volunteers who invest their time and efforts into making a positive impact.

One of the key missions of Robogals is to promote diversity and inclusion in engineering and related fields. They believe that everyone, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to explore and excel in these areas.

By engaging young minds, particularly girls, in exciting and educational activities, Robogals contributes to breaking down barriers and ensuring that engineering and related fields become more accessible and diverse.

Women’s Engagement Board (WEB)

The Women’s Engagement Board (WEB) at Caltech is a remarkable organization that operates with the participation of students, post-docs, and staff, all united in the mission to encourage leadership and provide support to women throughout the institution. This board conducts regular monthly meetings and is part of a more extensive network of “women-in” groups at Caltech, which are led by graduate students and post-docs who share a common purpose.

WEB’s primary focus revolves around nurturing leadership qualities and acting as advocates for women in various roles and fields across the institution. Their commitment is evident in their dedication to building a more inclusive and equitable environment that benefits all women at Caltech.

There is another initiative within Caltech known as the Caltech Women in Chemistry Committee, which has a specific emphasis on assisting and advancing the careers of women in the field of chemistry and related sciences within the institution. This committee inspires women pursuing careers in these fields to receive the necessary support and resources to thrive.

Both these groups, the WEB and the Caltech Women in Chemistry Committee, form essential components of the institution’s broader efforts to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion. Their existence underscores Caltech’s commitment to providing meaningful support and resources for women in various capacities, fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their gender, can excel and contribute to the institution’s success.

Women in PMA (WiPMA)

Women in Physics, Math and Astronomy (WiPMA) at Caltech is an organization with a clear mission: to provide unwavering support to undergraduate, graduate, and postdoc women pursuing studies in the Physics, Math, and Astronomy (PMA) division. This dedicated group is on a mission to foster a nurturing and inclusive environment for women in these specific fields.

WiPMA is an integral part of Caltech’s broader commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the PMA division. Their primary objective is to create a space where women in these disciplines can not only find support but also feel valued and included.

This organization offers a valuable platform for women studying Physics, Math, and Astronomy to come together, connect, and stand by one another. Through WiPMA, women in these fields can participate in various activities that are directly related to their areas of study, creating a strong sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

Is the Caltech The Right Fit For You?

Determining if Caltech is the right fit for you depends on various factors, including your academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences. Here are some key considerations to help you evaluate if Caltech aligns with your needs and aspirations:

World-Class Faculty

The faculty at Caltech are experts in their respective fields and have made significant contributions to scientific research and innovation. Learn from the best in the industry and work closely with renowned professors! Caltech’s faculty can provide you with invaluable guidance and mentorship.

Cutting-Edge Research Opportunities

Caltech is at the forefront of scientific research and innovation. If you’re excited about the prospect of engaging in groundbreaking research projects and contributing to the advancement of knowledge, Caltech offers numerous research opportunities that can shape your academic journey.

Challenging Curriculum

Caltech’s academic programs are known for their rigor and depth. If you thrive in an intellectually stimulating and challenging academic environment, you’ll find that Caltech’s curriculum pushes you to expand your knowledge and skills in ways that prepare you for future success.

STEM Focus

Caltech’s strengths lie in STEM fields, making it an ideal choice for those with a strong interest in physics, engineering, mathematics, and related disciplines. If you have a genuine passion for these subjects and aspire to pursue careers in STEM-related fields, Caltech’s specialized programs can provide you with the necessary foundation and expertise.

Research Opportunities

Caltech offers exceptional research opportunities for undergraduates, allowing you to actively participate in cutting-edge projects. If you’re eager to apply classroom knowledge to real-world research and gain hands-on experience, Caltech’s research culture is conducive to your academic growth.

Innovation and Problem-Solving

Caltech emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills. If you’re enthusiastic about tackling complex challenges, developing innovative solutions, and pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge, Caltech’s academic environment fosters these qualities.

Caltech’s commitment to academic excellence, particularly in STEM fields, provides a platform for students with a strong passion for science and a desire to excel academically. The institution’s renowned faculty, research opportunities, and challenging curriculum make it an excellent choice for those aspiring to make significant contributions to the world of science and technology.

Final Thoughts

Caltech envisions a future where diversity and inclusion are not just ideals, or mere statistics, but lived experiences. The Institute aspires to be a shining example of a community that is committed to equity, enabling individuals to flourish while pursuing cutting-edge research and education.

It is a commitment to a future where every member, regardless of their background, finds a welcoming and supportive environment that not only supports their academic endeavors but also enriches their personal growth.

Caltech’s dedication to diversity and inclusion is guiding us toward a brighter and more inclusive future. Together, we build upon the foundation of our collective efforts, shaping a tomorrow where diversity thrives, and progress is unwavering.