
1200 E. California Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91125-0001, USA


California Institute of Technology holds accreditation from the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. This regional accrediting body ensures that the institution meets rigorous standards for quality and effectiveness in higher education.
California Institute of Technology maintains a selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of approximately 3%, placing it among the most competitive institutions. Prospective students are not required to hold a high school diploma or equivalent; however, a complete secondary school record is mandatory. Recommendations from educators or mentors are also a required part of the application.
The submission of admission test scores is recommended but not strictly required. Applicants must provide TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency, while other standardized tests aside from TOEFL are suggested but not compulsory.
The institution does not operate under an open admission policy and permits dual credit, though it does not offer consideration for Advanced Placement credits or college credit for dual enrollment. While computers are not mandatory for admission, the option to lease a computer is available.
The California Institute of Technology charges an application fee that prospective students must pay to submit their admissions materials. However, the institution offers fee waivers for applicants who demonstrate financial need, ensuring that the cost does not become a barrier for qualified students seeking admission. These waivers can be requested through the standard application platforms used by the university.
Applicants eligible for fee waivers typically include those who meet specific income guidelines or participate in certain assistance programs. Additionally, fee waivers may be granted for students attending high schools with limited resources or for those who face other economic hardships. It is recommended that prospective students review the application instructions carefully to understand how to apply for a waiver and what documentation might be necessary.
By providing fee waivers, California Institute of Technology aims to promote equitable access to its rigorous academic programs, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply without financial strain.
California Institute of Technology does not host an on-campus ROTC branch unit. Instead, prospective students interested in Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs may participate through ROTC units at cooperating host institutions. This arrangement allows students to fulfill ROTC requirements while enrolled at California Institute of Technology by affiliating with nearby institutions that operate these military training programs.
California Institute of Technology allows transfer students to enroll in the fall term, although admissions are considered highly competitive given the institute's status as one of the most difficult to enter. The institution does accept transfer credits, facilitating the continuation of prior academic work for incoming students. However, details regarding acceptance of credits from specific examinations such as CLEP or DANTES are not provided.
California Institute of Technology offers its students opportunities to participate in a variety of study abroad programs designed to complement their rigorous academic curriculum. These programs primarily focus on research collaborations, internships, and specialized coursework in partnership with international institutions renowned in science and engineering. Students can engage in faculty-led research projects overseas, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in global contexts while gaining practical experience.
Additionally, the institute supports exchange programs that enable students to attend classes at partner universities abroad, enriching their educational experience with diverse cultural perspectives and academic approaches. These exchanges often emphasize interdisciplinary studies, reflecting the institution's commitment to innovation and cross-field collaboration.
Short-term study abroad options are also available, providing intensive workshops and seminars during academic breaks. These aim to expose students to emerging technologies and scientific developments worldwide without interrupting their academic progress.
Through these varied formats, California Institute of Technology ensures that its students have access to international academic environments that enhance their research capabilities and broaden their global outlook within the STEM fields.
High school completions
High school diploma or equivalent is not requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
Data not availableSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
YesCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
NoOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Very hardGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall