California Institute of Technology

Founded in 1891, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a private institution located in Pasadena, California. Caltech is well known for its science, engineering, and technology programs. Likewise, its research and discovery initiatives are internationally recognized. This small, prestigious school’s notable alumni include NASA astronaut and Apollo 8 crewmember Frank Borman, American physicist Willam Colgazier, and co-founder of Intel Corporation Gordon Moore.

Ranked 11 in the nation, Caltech is a very selective school. Its acceptance rate is 7%, and its graduation rate is 89%. The tuition rate for undergraduates is $56,364 per year, plus fees. Caltech offers 28 undergraduate majors across six academic divisions, plus 30 graduate programs. Just over 2,200 total students are enrolled. Caltech follows a semester-based academic calendar.

Caltech produces a significant amount of research, receiving grants from institutions such as NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Health and Human Services, among others. Close to 90% of undergraduate students participate in research while earning their degrees. Housing at Caltech consists of 11 student residences and houses. Residences are described as “self-governing living groups,” as they integrate living, dining, and study. Dinner is served by student waiters, a Caltech tradition to build community. Freshmen are required to live on campus, but more than 80% of students remain in their houses for all four years.

The Caltech Beavers compete in the NCAA Division III Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Students who love football enjoy easy access to the annual Rose Bowl. Integral to student life is the Honor Code, which dictates that “No member of the Caltech community shall take unfair advantage of any other member of the Caltech community.” Off Campus, students can explore the town of Pasadena, 11 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles. Old Pasadena is home to a popular shopping and dining district, distinguished by its Victorian and art deco buildings.