College Comparison
Bowdoin 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
Brunswick, ME
Pasadena, CA
Total Enrollment
1,881
2,430
Undergrad Enrollment
1,881
987
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
3:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
2.6%
Average GPA
3.93
4.00
SAT Range
1470–1550
1530–1580
ACT Range
33–35
35–36
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$75
Total Applicants
13,265
13,856
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,440
$78,762
Avg Net Price
$20,786
$18,902
Tuition (In-State)
$60,952
$58,479
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,952
$58,479
Room & Board
$18,488
$20,283
% Receiving Aid
55.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,872
$72,373
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$82,735
$128,566
More Comparisons
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Explore by Location
Bowdoin is in Brunswick, ME
California Institute of Technology is in Pasadena, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bowdoin College is $20,786 per year, compared to $18,902 at Caltech. Caltech is $1,884 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bowdoin College typically score between 1470-1550 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.
Bowdoin 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.
Bowdoin College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Caltech has a ratio of 3:1. Caltech offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Bowdoin College, 55% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,872. At Caltech, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $72,373.
The median earnings for Bowdoin College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $82,735, 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.
Bowdoin College is located in Brunswick, ME in a town: fringe setting. Caltech is located in Pasadena, CA in a city: midsize setting.

