College Comparison
Amherst College vs California Institute of Technology
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Pasadena, CA
Total Enrollment
1,914
2,430
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
987
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
3:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
2.6%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1490–1580
1530–1580
ACT Range
33–35
35–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$75
Total Applicants
13,743
13,856
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$78,762
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$18,902
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$58,479
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$58,479
Room & Board
$18,390
$20,283
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$72,373
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$128,566
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
California Institute of Technology is in Pasadena, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $18,902 at Caltech. Amherst College is $656 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Caltech, the typical SAT range is 1530-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Caltech has a graduation rate of 94%. Caltech has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Amherst College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Caltech has a ratio of 3:1. Caltech offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Amherst College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,591. At Caltech, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $72,373.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $128,566 for Caltech graduates. Graduates from Caltech tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Amherst College is located in Amherst, MA in a city: small setting. Caltech is located in Pasadena, CA in a city: midsize setting.