How to Get into Caltech: Admission Requirements and Tips

With an acceptance rate of just 3.1% for the Class of 2027, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is the most selective school in the U.S. Add to that a ranking of 6th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, and it’s clear why Caltech is such a big deal. With all that prestige, though, how do you get into Caltech?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting into Caltech. We’ll cover the admission requirements, academic expectations, and application deadlines. If you’ve got your sights set on Caltech, getting these details right can help set you apart from the rest.

• How Hard Is It to Get into Caltech?
• Caltech Admission Requirements
• Caltech GPA Requirements
• Caltech SAT Requirements
• Caltech ACT Scores
• How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Caltech
• Caltech Application Deadline
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Hard Is It to Get into Caltech?

Getting into Caltech is about as tough as it gets. For the Class of 2027, out of 13,136 applications, only 412 were accepted—an acceptance rate of just 3.1%. And while estimates for the Class of 2028 suggest a similar number of applications, the number of admits could shrink even more. So, the acceptance rate isn’t likely to rise anytime soon.

To put things in perspective, Caltech’s acceptance rate has been steadily dropping over the years:

Caltech Class	Acceptance Rate
Class of 2024	6.7%
Class of 2025	3.9%
Class of 2026	2.7%
Class of 2027	3.1%
Class of 2028	TBA (estimate: around 3.1% or lower)

When you stack that against other elite schools like the Ivy League, Caltech stands out as the most selective in the country:

Ivy League School	Acceptance Rate (Class of 2028)
Harvard University	3.6%
Yale University	3.7%
Columbia University	3.85%
Princeton University	TBA (4.5% for Class of 2027)
Brown University	5.2%
Dartmouth College	5.3%
University of Pennsylvania	5.4%
Cornell University	TBA (7.9% for Class of 2027)

Even Harvard (3.6%), Yale (3.7%), and Columbia (3.85%) don’t have rates as low as Caltech’s. Princeton was at 4.5% for the Class of 2027, while schools like Brown, Dartmouth, and Penn hover between 5-6%. Caltech’s acceptance rate is simply in a league of its own.

So, how hard is it to get into Caltech? Very. You’ll need more than just strong grades and test scores. The school looks for students who are not only brilliant in STEM but also show real passion, creativity, and a drive to push the limits of science and technology. If you’re aiming for Caltech, you’ll need to bring something special to the table academically and in your extracurriculars.

Caltech Admission Requirements

When applying to Caltech, you can choose between the Common App and the QuestBridge Application. Neither is favored, so pick what suits your needs. These platforms also help you track the status of your application, letting you know which pieces have been submitted.

Here’s what you’ll need for your Caltech application:

• Transcript of records. This covers your high school grades and GPA, showing how you’ve performed academically.
• Standardized test scores. Caltech has brought back its requirement for SAT or ACT scores, so those need to be part of your application.
• Extracurricular activities. Caltech will pay close attention to how you spend your time outside of the classroom, especially if you’re involved in STEM-related activities.
• Application essays. In addition to the personal statement (from your Common App or QuestBridge Application), Caltech has six supplemental essays for the 2024-25 cycle, plus three optional shorter essays.
• Letters of recommendation. You’ll need three in total—two from teachers (one STEM, one humanities or social science) and one from your school counselor. There’s also the option to submit an extra letter from a coach, mentor, or employer if it adds something special to your app.
• Supplementary materials (optional). If you have extra materials like research papers, publications, or even a portfolio, you can submit them through Caltech’s Beaver Breakroom portal after sending in your main application.

Caltech takes a holistic approach to admissions, which means they look at the full picture, not just your grades or test scores. A high GPA can show you’re academically strong, but they also care about your character and work ethic, which come through in your letters of recommendation. Your essays and extracurriculars are where they get to see your passion for STEM, creativity, and how you handle challenges. Supplementary materials can add to your case, but they’re not required.

Take note: Caltech puts a lot of emphasis on the rigor of your high school classes—AP and IB courses can really boost your chances. Personal qualities like resilience, creativity, and a love for STEM are also big factors.

Some things like class rank, talent, and being a first-gen student count but aren’t as heavily weighted. Volunteer work and job experience are considered, but more as a bonus. Factors like interviews, alumni connections, state residency, and demonstrated interest don’t play a role at all.

To make sure you’re ready academically, Caltech requires these high school courses:

• 3 years of English (4 years recommended)
• 4 years of math
• 2 years of science with at least 1 year of lab (4 years recommended)
• 1 year of social studies (3 years recommended)
• 1 year of history
• 3 years of a foreign language (recommended but not required)

Keep these requirements in mind to get a better sense of how to get into Caltech. The key is to show not only academic excellence but also a genuine passion for exploring new frontiers in STEM.

Caltech GPA Requirements

Caltech doesn’t have an official GPA cutoff, but real talk—you need to have a high GPA. Admissions are incredibly selective, and even though Caltech looks at your application holistically, your GPA is a major factor. Your GPA is an important marker of how well-prepared you are for the rigorous academics at this prestigious school.

Caltech average GPA

Admitted Caltech students typically have an average GPA of around 4.2. That’s above the standard 4.0 scale because it includes weighted GPAs from advanced classes like AP or IB. Also, roughly 95% of admitted students ranked in the top 10% of their graduating class. In other words, these students didn’t just take the challenging courses—they nailed them.

If Caltech is your goal, aim for a GPA of 4.2 or higher to stay competitive. Students who do well in tough STEM courses and consistently push themselves academically tend to catch the attention of the admissions team.

What to do if your GPA is below average

If your GPA doesn’t quite hit that 4.2 mark, focus on other areas where you shine. Highlight your passion for STEM, your involvement in research, or leadership roles in STEM-related clubs or activities. You can also talk about challenges you’ve overcome or specific experiences that have shaped your academic journey. While GPA is important, Caltech looks at everything.

Caltech SAT Requirements

Caltech has brought back standardized tests as a key part of the admissions process for first-year applicants. While there’s no strict minimum score, you’re going to need impressive numbers to stand out. With Caltech’s low acceptance rate and its focus on STEM, a strong SAT score can give you a serious edge.

Caltech average SAT

Though Caltech hasn’t released official SAT data for recent admissions, the average SAT composite score for admitted students has historically hovered around 1545. Here’s how it breaks down:

25th Percentile SAT Composite Score	Average SAT Composite Score	75th Percentile SAT Composite Score
1530	1545	1570

For the individual sections:

Section	25th Percentile Score	Average Score	75th Percentile Score
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW)	740	750	760
SAT Math	790	795	800

It’s clear that a near-perfect math score is the norm for many admitted students, which highlights just how much Caltech prioritizes STEM skills. To stay competitive, shooting for the 75th percentile or higher—especially in math—can really boost your application.

But if your scores are closer to the 25th percentile, don’t stress too much. Exceptional research experience or standout extracurriculars can still help you catch the admissions team’s attention.

Does Caltech require SAT?

Caltech now requires the SAT or ACT for applicants applying for Fall 2025 and beyond. This is a change from their pandemic-era test-free policy.

The decision to bring back the SAT was based on a recommendation from a faculty committee that found test scores helpful in evaluating academic preparedness, particularly for a STEM-heavy curriculum like Caltech’s. Even during the test-free period, over 95% of enrolled students still submitted scores, showing just how much weight those numbers carry.

Yes, Caltech’s admissions process looks at the whole picture—test scores, essays, extracurriculars, and letters of recommendation. But having solid SAT scores adds another layer to your profile and shows you’re ready for the intense academic challenges Caltech is known for.

If you’re mapping out how to get into Caltech, knowing that tests are back on the table can help you plan your application strategy wisely.

Caltech ACT Scores

If you’re aiming for Caltech, standardized test scores are back on the table. While there’s no official minimum ACT score, you’ll want to aim high to stay competitive in the pool of applicants. The better your ACT score, the stronger your overall application will be.

Caltech average ACT

The average ACT composite score for those who get into Caltech is around 35. Here’s a breakdown:

25th Percentile ACT Composite Score	Average ACT Composite Score	75th Percentile ACT Composite Score
35	35	36

Basically, you’ll need to shoot for a near-perfect score of 36 if you want to keep up with the competition. Caltech is all about STEM, so strong scores across all sections—especially math and science—will boost your chances.

But don’t stress too much if your score isn’t quite that high. If your extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations are stellar, they can help balance things out.

Does Caltech prefer the ACT or SAT?

Both ACT and SAT cover similar material, so either one is fine as long as it reflects your strengths, especially in math and science. If you’ve done better on the ACT, go ahead and submit that. If your SAT scores are stronger, that’s totally fine too. The key is choosing whichever test best showcases your abilities.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Caltech

To increase your chances of getting into Caltech, you’ll need to go beyond the basic requirements. Caltech is looking for students who not only excel academically but also show a strong passion for STEM, leadership, and personal growth.

1. Keep your GPA high.

Your GPA should be around 4.2 or higher to stay competitive for Caltech.

They also care about how hard you’ve pushed yourself, especially in tough STEM courses. They expect you to challenge yourself in advanced classes like AP Calculus BC, AP Physics C: Mechanics, and AP Chemistry. If your school offers IB courses or even college-level classes like linear algebra or thermodynamics, jump on those opportunities.

To make sure you stand out, aim for top scores in these challenging courses. They’re a strong indicator that you can keep up with Caltech’s demanding academic environment.

When taking hard classes, you have to truly understand the material. So, focus on mastering core concepts rather than just memorizing facts. If you get stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from teachers, classmates, or even online resources. Study groups are also great for staying on track with difficult subjects.

Balancing multiple advanced courses can get overwhelming fast, so time management is key. Be smart about your schedule. Don’t overload yourself, but make sure you’re pushing yourself in the right areas—especially in STEM. Staying consistent with high performance in tough classes will put you in a strong position for Caltech’s high academic expectations.

2. Focus on STEM extracurriculars.

Since Caltech is all about STEM, your extracurriculars should show you’re just as passionate about science, tech, engineering, or math. Getting involved in STEM activities helps you prepare for the intense curriculum Caltech is known for.

Plus, hands-on projects let you take what you learn in class and use it in the real world, which Caltech loves to see. If you’re thinking about how to get into Caltech, starting with STEM-focused activities is a smart move.

Now, you don’t need to be a robotics champ or a research prodigy to stand out (though, if you are, props!). The trick is finding activities that really click with your interests. If research is your thing, programs like the Research Science Institute (RSI) or the Garcia Research Scholar Program can give you serious lab experience before you even get to college.

Academic competitions are another great way to show off your brainpower. Joining contests like the American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) or the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) can help highlight your advanced STEM abilities. Robotics tilts like FIRST or VEX Robotics let you flex your teamwork and problem-solving skills, both highly valued at Caltech.

Even if you’re not into competitive events, summer programs like Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes or MIT’s Beaver Works Summer Institute can immerse you in tech and engineering fields, while PROMYS and the Ross Mathematics Program are perfect for math enthusiasts who love  theory.

In the end, it’s not about doing every STEM activity under the sun—it’s about finding what excites you and running with it. When you’re passionate about what you do, it’ll show in your application, and that could be the difference when you’re aiming for a spot at Caltech.

3. Ace the SAT/ACT.

Since Caltech has brought back the testing requirement, nailing your test scores is now a big part of how to get into Caltech. To really stand out, aim for scores in the top 75th percentile:

• For the SAT, you’re looking at a 1570 or higher, with a nearly perfect score in math.
• If you’re going for the ACT, shoot for a composite score of 36, particularly crushing the math and science sections since those are key for Caltech’s STEM focus.

So, how do you hit those numbers? It’s all about smart prep. Here’s what to do:

• Give yourself several months to study for the SAT or ACT. Use practice tests to figure out where you’re strong and where you need work. The earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to improve.
• Since Caltech is all about STEM, your focus should be on math and science sections. Try using resources like Khan Academy to solve tougher problems and build your skills.
• Take timed, full-length practice tests to simulate the actual exam. This not only helps with endurance but also with getting your timing right so you can pace yourself well on test day.
• After each practice test, go over what you got wrong. Understand why, and focus on mastering those problem types so they don’t trip you up again.
• Know the test strategies. For the SAT, be sharp on time management, especially in the math section. For the ACT, practice the science reasoning section—interpreting data and charts can be tricky if you don’t get enough practice.
• If you’re not hitting your target scores, consider a test prep course or hire a tutor. A good tutor can give you personalized strategies to tackle your weak spots.

Consistent practice and a solid plan will get you closer to those high test scores Caltech wants. A top SAT or ACT score, especially in math and science, shows you’re ready for the academic challenges that lie ahead.

4. Nail your application essays.

When you’re applying to Caltech, you’ll need to submit one main personal essay through the Common App or QuestBridge, plus a few Caltech-specific supplemental essays. That personal essay is going to all the schools on your list, so it needs to tell a well-rounded, engaging story about you. The supplementary essays, on the other hand, let you tailor your answers to show how you align with Caltech’s STEM focus and values.

For your main personal essay, don’t just rattle off a list of achievements. Instead, talk about a specific experience that really shaped who you are.

Maybe you had a moment when your love for science clicked? Like building a robot from scratch or tackling a tough math problem no one else could crack? The key is to bring the reader into that moment. How did it feel? What challenges did you face? How did it shift the way you see the world? Storytelling like this shows off your curiosity, resilience, and problem-solving skills, which are huge at Caltech.

Your goal is to create a narrative that’s memorable and stands out. Think about the moments that sparked your passion for STEM or life in general, and build your essay around that. Use vivid details to keep the reader hooked and make sure the story highlights your strengths along the way.

Caltech essay prompts

Now, when it comes to the Caltech-specific supplemental essays, there are six required prompts and three optional ones. Even though the optional ones aren’t mandatory, answering them can help you show more of who you are.

Required prompts:

• Because of the rigorous courses in the core curriculum, Caltech students don’t declare a major until the end of their first year. However, some students arrive knowing which academic fields and areas already most excite them, or which novel fields and areas they most want to explore. If you had to choose an area of interest or two today, what would you choose? (There are dropdown menus from which you can choose up to two areas of interest.) Why did you choose your proposed area of interest? If you selected ‘other’, what topics are you interested in pursuing? (200 words)
• Regardless of your STEM interest listed above, take this opportunity to nerd out and talk to us about whatever STEM rabbit hole you have found yourself falling into. Be as specific or broad as you would like. (50-150 words)
• Tell us how you initially found your interest and passion for science or any STEM topic and how you have pursued or developed this interest or passion. (100-200 words)
• Tell us about a STEM-related experience from the last few years and share how and why it inspired your curiosity. (100-200 words)
• The creativity, inventiveness, and innovation of Caltech’s students, faculty, and researchers have won Nobel Prizes and put rovers on Mars. But Teachers also imagine smaller-scale innovations every day, from new ways to design solar cells to how to 3D-print dorm decor to experimenting in the kitchen. How have you been a creator, inventor, or innovator in your own life? (200-250 words)
• Caltech’s values include respect for a diversity of thoughts and ideas. How have you cultivated this value in your own life? (50-200 words)

Optional prompts:

• If there are aspects of your life or social or personal identity that you feel are not captured elsewhere in this application, please tell us about them below. (150 words)
• When not surveying the stars, peering through microscopes, or running through coding marathons, Caltech students pursue an eclectic array of interests that range from speed-cubing, reading, yoga, playing musical instruments and theater arts, to solving puzzles, hiking, painting, and building or inventing new gadgets. We understand that everyone needs an outlet or two. What is a favorite interest or hobby, and why does it bring you joy? (50-100 words)
• Did you have a hard time narrowing it down to just one interest or hobby? We understand—Caltech students like to stay busy, too. Tell us about another hobby or interest! (150 words)

Use these supplemental essays to give the admissions team a real sense of who you are. They want to hear your unique voice and see how your experiences have shaped your interests. Be specific, bring your stories to life with details, and don’t just stick to general statements. Connect your experiences directly to Caltech’s focus on STEM and innovation.

5. Get strong letters of recommendation.

Caltech requires three recommendation letters: two from teachers and one from your school counselor. The teacher recommendations should come from your last two years of high school, with one focusing on a STEM subject (like calculus or physics) and the other from humanities or social sciences (like English or history).

You can also throw in an extra rec from a coach, mentor, or boss if you think it’ll bring a fresh perspective to your application. Just make sure it adds something new.

To get strong letters, you’ll need to build solid relationships with your teachers and counselor. Start early—don’t wait until the last minute. Show up in class, ask questions, and participate. Stay curious, seek help when you need it, and work hard. Teachers notice when you put in the effort, and that’ll come across in their letters.

When it’s time to ask for a recommendation letter:

1. Choose teachers who know you well and can talk about your academic and personal growth. Be respectful and ask if they feel comfortable writing you a strong recommendation. It helps to give them a rundown of your achievements, goals, and anything specific you’d like them to mention.

2. Don’t wait until the last minute—ask at least a month before the deadline and send a gentle reminder closer to it. Thoughtful, detailed letters from people who believe in your potential can be the key to getting into Caltech.

6. Apply through Early Action.

If Caltech is your dream school, applying through Restrictive Early Action (REA) might be the move. REA is non-binding, which means even if you get in, you’re not locked into attending. You’ll also find out your decision earlier, with applications due November 1 and notifications coming by mid-December.

While Caltech’s admit rates for Early Action and Regular Decision are pretty similar—around 5% for both—applying early shows you’re serious about Caltech. Plus, if you’ve already crushed your junior year calculus, chemistry, and physics courses, you’re probably in a good spot to submit your app early. If your application is ready to go and you’re excited about Caltech, REA can give you that early boost of confidence.

Another bonus of REA is flexibility. Since it’s non-binding, you still have time to explore other schools or compare financial aid packages without feeling rushed to commit. Having an early acceptance from Caltech in your pocket gives you peace of mind while you sort through your other options.

Caltech Application Deadlines

When you’re getting your Caltech application together, keeping an eye on the deadlines is essential. Here’s a quick breakdown of the important dates:

Date	Event
August	Application Start
November 1	Restrictive Early Action Deadline
Mid-December	Restrictive Early Action  Notification
January 3	Regular Decision Deadline
Mid-March	Regular Decision Notification
May 1	Reply Date (College Decision Day)

For those applying through REA, the deadline is November 1. You’ve got a little extra time—until November 6—to submit any required or supplemental materials. Your standardized tests, though, need to be done by November 30. By mid-December, you’ll find out if you’re admitted, deferred, or denied. If you’re accepted, you’ve got until May 1, 2025, to decide whether to attend.

If you’re going for RD, the application deadline is January 3. You can submit extra materials until January 8, but your test scores need to be in by December 31, 2024. Decisions will come out in mid-March, and the results will be one of three: admit, waitlist, or deny. If you’re admitted, just like with REA, you’ve got until May 1, 2025, to make your choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Caltech’s acceptance rate?

Caltech’s acceptance rate is incredibly low. For the Class of 2027, it was just 3.1%, making Caltech the toughest school to get into in the U.S.

2. Is Caltech test-optional?

Nope, Caltech is no longer test-optional. Starting with Fall 2025 applicants, you’ll need to submit either SAT or ACT scores as part of the admissions process.

3. What is Caltech known for?

Caltech is all about STEM—science, technology, engineering, and math. It’s especially famous for groundbreaking research in areas like physics, space exploration, and biology, plus its intense academic programs.

4. Is Caltech an Ivy League school?

No, Caltech isn’t part of the Ivy League, but it’s often considered a “hidden Ivy” because of its prestige and academic difficulty. Even without the Ivy League tag, it’s still one of the world’s top universities.

5. How much is Caltech tuition?

For the 2024-25 academic year, Caltech’s tuition is $63,402. With living expenses and other fees, the total cost can hit around $90,000 a year. But don’t worry—financial aid is available to help cover some of these costs if you qualify.

Takeaways

f you’re wondering how to get into Caltech, here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Caltech’s acceptance rate is just 3.1%, making it the most selective school in the U.S.
• Aim for a GPA of 4.2 or higher and take challenging STEM courses like calculus and physics.
• SAT or ACT scores are now required, with a 1570 SAT or 36 ACT as ideal benchmarks.
• Strong extracurriculars, compelling essays, and stellar recommendation letters are key to standing out.
• Working with a college admissions consultant could help give your Caltech application an extra boost.