What Is California Institute of Technology’s World Ranking? Overview of Programmes and Application Requirements

Among the world's leading research universities, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is renowned for its rigorous academic philosophy and innovative research capabilities, earning it an esteemed reputation internationally. Its long-standing excellence in science and engineering has consistently secured Caltech a top position in global rankings, making it a dream institution for countless students. At Zhihe Education, we aim to provide students with insights into Caltech’s popular programmes and application requirements, assisting those interested in pursuing their studies in the United States to grasp essential information and enhance their admission prospects.

Introduction to the California Institute of Technology

Founded in 1891 [1], the California Institute of Technology, located in Pasadena, California, spans an area of 124 acres (approximately 50 hectares). Caltech is one of the universities in the United States with the lowest student-to-faculty ratio, boasting over 300 professional professors who provide rigorous courses for around 1,000 undergraduates and 1,400 graduate students. This small yet highly esteemed private institution is characterised by its exceptional educational standards [2]. Notable alumni include the father of computer graphics, Ivan Sutherland [3], Intel co-founder and originator of Moore's Law, Gordon Moore [4], and an impressive tally of 48 Nobel laureates [5], underscoring Caltech's profound influence in the domains of science and computer studies.

California Institute of Technology building 

Source: California Institute of Technology

Global Rankings of the California Institute of Technology

In the QS World Rankings 2026, Caltech is positioned 10th globally [6], while in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, it is ranked 7th [7]. These remarkable achievements reflect the institution’s leadership in research capability, faculty quality, and academic education. Furthermore, according to the latest QS subject rankings, several disciplines at Caltech are in the global top 20, including the Natural Sciences and Physics & Astronomy, both ranked 7th [8][9], Engineering and Technology ranked 13th [10], Chemical Engineering also at 13th [11], and Biological Sciences ranked 18th [12], highlighting Caltech’s world-class research and teaching in science and engineering fields.

Popular Science and Engineering Programmes at Caltech

Caltech comprises six academic divisions and offers 26 undergraduate degree programmes [13]. Among the most popular and renowned courses are [14]:

1. Computer Science

The Computer Science department is one of Caltech’s strengths, focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects. Students can engage in Capstone projects or Mentored Projects [15], with a curriculum that integrates creativity and interdisciplinary elements (such as medicine and finance) to develop well-rounded technological talent.

2. Mechanical Engineering

The Mechanical Engineering department provides students with professional laboratories, design courses, and project work relevant to mechanical engineering, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experience. The curriculum covers areas such as robotics, control systems, thermodynamics, and mechatronics [16]. Students also have opportunities to participate in design competitions and industry collaborations, making it one of Caltech’s most sought-after programmes.

3. Physics

Caltech’s Physics department is one of the most prestigious disciplines worldwide, producing multiple Nobel laureates [17]. Additionally, the department maintains close collaboration with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) [18], achieving excellence in astrophysics, cosmology, and quantum information science.

4. Chemical Engineering

Caltech's Chemical Engineering programme ranks highly, with its curriculum centred on Molecular Engineering. Students learn to apply the fundamental principles of chemistry, physics, and biology to design products and processes at the molecular level, addressing challenges in cutting-edge areas such as sustainable energy, new material development, biotechnology, and medicine [19].

5. Electrical Engineering

As one of Caltech’s core departments, Electrical Engineering features numerous faculty members active in electrical, computer science, and biomedical engineering fields [20], helping students build a solid foundation of professional knowledge.

California Institute of Technology library 

Source: California Institute of Technology

Key Application Points for Caltech

Students interested in applying to the California Institute of Technology in the future are encouraged to understand the requirements for applicants and all necessary documentation. The following outlines the basic application criteria:

Secondary School Subject Requirements

Admission to Caltech is highly competitive, requiring applicants to demonstrate outstanding academic foundations and research potential. It is recommended that high school students take the following subjects: [21]

Mathematics: 4 years, including at least 1 year of calculus

Physics: At least 1 year

Chemistry: At least 1 year

Biology: Recommended for at least 1 year

English: 4 years

History/Social Sciences: At least 2 years (3 years or more recommended)

If a secondary school does not offer calculus, physics, or chemistry, Caltech will accept other performance alternatives, such as AP exams (scores must be 5) or IB exams (scores must be 6 or 7), or courses certified by Schoolhouse.world.

Application Methods and Required Documentation

Caltech applications can be submitted via the Common Application or the QuestBridge application (for full scholarships, limited to US citizens or international students studying at US secondary schools) [22]. The application fee is $75 (fee waivers can be requested for those with financial need). The following materials are required: [23]

2 letters of recommendation from secondary school teachers (1 from a mathematics or science teacher, 1 from a humanities or social science teacher)

A school report (including background information and student performance)

Secondary school transcripts

SAT or ACT scores

AP or IB scores (if applicable)

English proficiency test scores (such as TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo)

Research papers or portfolios (if applicable)

Standardised Testing Requirements

Beginning in the autumn of 2024, Caltech will require applicants to submit standardised test scores (such as SAT or ACT). While the university has not explicitly set score cut-offs, students are encouraged to demonstrate strong abilities in mathematics, reading, and science to enhance their competitiveness based on Caltech’s high ranking and popularity in science and engineering programmes.

English Proficiency Requirements

Caltech requires international applicants to submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo (DET), meeting the following criteria: [24]

TOEFL: Total score of at least 100, with a minimum of 25 in each section

IELTS: Total score of at least 7.0, with a minimum of 7.0 in each section

Duolingo: Total score of at least 130, with a minimum of 130 in each section

Native English speakers are exempt from submitting these scores. Non-native speakers are also encouraged to submit English proficiency proof, even if they have attended an English-medium school.

Two Application Types for Caltech

Caltech applications are available through Restrictive Early Action (REA) and Regular Decision (RD) [25]. Students should be aware of the specific regulations pertaining to each:

Restrictive Early Action

Applicants may not submit Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED) applications to other private universities simultaneously; however, they may submit non-binding "Early Program" applications to public or international universities (such as the University of California system’s Early Action).

Applications under Restrictive Early Action may be deferred, automatically shifting to the Regular Decision round for further review.

If deferred, applicants may apply to other institutions and simply need to withdraw their application once accepted elsewhere.

If an applicant is ultimately denied in the Regular Decision round, they cannot reapply to Caltech that academic year.

Regular Decision

altech's standard application procedure.

Admission outcomes include acceptance, waitlist, or denial. Waitlisted students must respond by mid-April regarding their interest in remaining on the waitlist.

If spots remain after May 1, the school may consider additional admissions; the waitlist review process will conclude by mid-July 2026.

Application Timeline for the California Institute of Technology (2025–26)

Understanding the conditions and procedures necessary for applying to the California Institute of Technology will assist in preparing for the application process well in advance. Below is a compiled timeline for students interested in applying:

Item	Restrictive Early Action	Regular Decision
Nature	Non-binding; however, applicants may not simultaneously apply to other private universities for ED/Early Action	Standard application process, no restrictions
Application Deadline	1 November 2025	5 January 2026
Additional Document Deadline	6 November 2025	11 January 2026
Standardised Test (SAT/ACT) Submission Deadline	By 30 November 2025	By 31 December 2025
Notification Time	Mid-December 2025	Mid-March 2026
Reply Deadline for Admission	1 May 2026	1 May 2026

Tuition Overview for Caltech (2025–2026)

The estimated tuition fees for Caltech for the academic year 2025–2026 are as follows: [26]

Item	On-campus Accommodation	Off-campus Accommodation
Tuition	$65,622	$65,622
Fees	$2,586	$2,586
Room and Board	$12,105	$15,219
Meals	$8,886	$7,533
Books, supplies, and equipment (estimated)	$1,428	$1,428
Personal expenses (estimated)	$3,285	$5,067
Total	$93,912	$97,455

Additionally, please note:

The fee component does not include the student health insurance plan. Students must either purchase the university's insurance (costing $5,049 for 2025–2026) or obtain equivalent coverage independently.

All new undergraduate students are required to pay a one-time enrolment fee of $500.

California Institute of Technology campus 

Source: California Institute of Technology

Studying in the USA: Contact GROVE Education

Caltech not only consistently ranks among the world's elite institutions but is also widely praised for its research prowess, rigorous small-class teaching, and interdisciplinary learning environment. Gaining a thorough understanding of Caltech’s popular programmes and application timelines will help students plan more strategically. If you aim to stand out in the competitive admission landscape, feel free to contact Grove Education for tailored guidance and support to realise your aspirations of studying in the USA.

References

1. Caltech - History & Milestones

2. Caltech - At a Glance

3. Caltech - How a Small Class at Caltech Helped Launch a Computer Revolution

4. Caltech Magazine - Gordon Moore: A Legacy of Philanthropy

5. Caltech - Nobel Laureates

6. QS Top Universities - California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

7. Times Higher Education - California Institute of Technology

8. QS Top Universities - Natural Sciences - University Subject Rankings

9. QS Top Universities - Physics & Astronomy - University Subject Rankings

10. QS Top Universities - Engineering & Technology - University Subject Rankings

11. QS Top Universities - Chemical Engineering - University Subject Rankings