California Institute of Technology Acceptance Rate

California Institute of Technology (Caltech), located in Pasadena, California, is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and highly selective admissions process. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), Caltech's overall acceptance rate is reported to be approximately 2.7%, reflecting an incredibly competitive applicant pool. This selectivity is driven by a growing number of applications each year, with thousands of highly qualified students vying for a limited number of spots. Factors such as Caltech's emphasis on STEM excellence, small class sizes, and prestigious reputation contribute to this low rate. Fortunately, Caltech provides transparent admission statistics through its official website and Common Data Set reports, offering insight into the admissions landscape.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 2.7% for the Class of 2028, with approximately 13,000 applicants and only about 350 admitted students, marking one of the lowest rates in the nation.
• Early Action/Decision Rate: Data specific to early action or decision is not publicly available for Caltech, as the university does not offer a binding early decision option. However, historical trends suggest early applicants may have a slightly higher acceptance rate, estimated at around 3.0%.
• International Student Rate: Specific data for international students is unavailable for the latest cycle. Based on prior years, the rate is estimated at around 2.5%, reflecting intense global competition for limited spots.

Over the past decade, Caltech's acceptance rate has trended downward, indicative of increasing competitiveness as more students apply to top-tier STEM institutions. The absence of a binding early decision program means that the admissions process remains highly selective across all rounds, with no significant advantage for early applicants. International student admissions are particularly competitive due to Caltech's global reputation in science and engineering. Compared to peer institutions like MIT or Stanford, Caltech's acceptance rate is among the lowest, often below 3%, underscoring its status as one of the most selective universities in the United States. For the most accurate and up-to-date data, prospective students are encouraged to visit the official Caltech admissions website at www.admissions.caltech.edu.