Applying to College
Admissions Requirements for Caltech
This article provides a detailed breakdown of the necessary academic qualifications, test scores, extracurricular accomplishments, and personal character traits sought by Caltech in its prospective students.
Aug 4, 2023
Introduction
The California Institute of Technology, fondly known as Caltech, commands a rich history and a sterling reputation. Founded in 1891, it has consistently been at the forefront of scientific research and technological innovation, earning an unmatched reputation in disciplines like physics, engineering, and computer science. Caltech has garnered countless accolades for its academic rigor and innovative spirit, and regularly ranks among the world's top universities. Its close-knit community of groundbreaking scientists and driven students continually push the boundaries of knowledge, seeking answers to the most complex questions of the universe.
Quick Numbers
Acceptance Rate: 3.9%
Test Optional/Blind: Caltech does not consider any form of standardized testing.
Average SAT Score: Caltech does not consider any form of standardized testing.
Average ACT Score: Caltech does not consider any form of standardized testing.
GPA: 3.9-4.0
Number of Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Two required, one optional.
Common Application Essay/Coalition/Questbridge: Any of the three
Number of Supplemental Essays: 4 required, 3 optional.
Interview: None
Early Decision/Early Action: Caltech offers a restrictive early action(REA) program. Meaning that you cannot apply to other schools early, but are allowed to reject an offer of admission.
Application Deadline: REA - Nov 1st, RD - Jan 3rd.
Financial Aid Deadline: REA - Dec 14th, RD - March 16th
Tests
Caltech does not use standardized testing in its admission decision.
Essays
Common App Essay
In terms of the Common App essay, Caltech, like many other schools, asks applicants to respond to one of the seven essay prompts provided by the Common Application, allowing students to showcase their unique perspectives and experiences in a personal and meaningful way.
Below is the full set of Common App essay prompts for 2023-24.
Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.(This is a very dangerous prompt, and it is recommended to discuss it with your high school counselor before undertaking it.)
In addition, students have the option to tell colleges any additional information that they might want to know. For example, extenuating circumstances that may explain a drop in grades for a certain semester.
Supplementals
Required Short Answer Questions
At Caltech, we investigate some of the most challenging, fundamental problems in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Identify and describe two STEM-related experiences from your high school years, either in or out of the classroom, and tell us how and why they activated your curiosity. What about them made you want to learn more and explore further? (Min: 100/Max: 200 words for each experience)
The creativity, inventiveness, and innovation of Caltech's students, faculty, and researchers have won Nobel Prizes and put rovers on Mars, but Techers also imagine smaller scale innovations every day, from new ways to design solar cells to 3D printing dorm decor. How have you been an innovator in your own life? (Min: 200 / Max: 250)
The process of discovery is best advanced when people from diverse backgrounds come together to solve the greatest challenges in their fields. How do your past experiences and present-day perspectives inform who you have become and how you navigate the world? (Min: 200 / Max: 250)
Optional Short Answer Questions
We know, we know ... you see optional and start to wonder if we mean it. But in this section, we truly do! See these as completely optional opportunities to show us more of your personality.
Optional. We promise.
If there are aspects of your identity that you feel are not captured elsewhere in this application, please provide that information below. (Max: 150 words)
When not surveying the stars, peering through microscopes, or running through marathons of coding, Caltech students pursue an eclectic array of interests that range from speed-cubing to participating in varsity athletics to reading romance novels. What is a favorite interest or hobby and why does it bring you joy? (Max: 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! (Max: 50 words)
Optional Academic Short Answer Questions
OPTIONAL: Have you had any extenuating circumstances regarding your coursework (such as limited course selection or disruptions) not described elsewhere in your application? If so, tell us about them here.
Some Caltech applicants engage in STEM competitions locally, nationally, and internationally (such as AIME, Science Olympiad, International Science Olympiads.) If you have received any STEM honors or awards, list them here (and scores, if applicable).
Conclusion
Navigating the admissions process for Caltech might seem daunting, but with the right tools at your disposal, it can be a manageable and successful endeavor. Delilah AI, with its advanced capabilities, is designed to guide you through one of the most challenging parts: writing your essays. It provides personalized suggestions and feedback, helping you craft compelling narratives that truly encapsulate your unique experiences, aspirations, and potential.
Don't let the task of essay writing stand in your way. Click the button below to get started with Delilah AI and elevate your application for Caltech to the next level. Let's make your dream of studying at Caltech a reality, together.