College Comparison
California Institute of Technology vs Grinnell College
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Pasadena, CA
Grinnell, IA
Total Enrollment
2,430
1,788
Undergrad Enrollment
987
1,788
Student-Faculty Ratio
3:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
2.6%
14.5%
Average GPA
4.00
3.89
SAT Range
1530–1580
1410–1540
ACT Range
35–36
31–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$0
Total Applicants
13,856
9,758
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,762
$77,830
Avg Net Price
$18,902
$15,608
Tuition (In-State)
$58,479
$60,988
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,479
$60,988
Room & Board
$20,283
$16,842
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
94.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$72,373
$49,077
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
89.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
83.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
93.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$128,566
$62,830
More Comparisons
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Explore by Location
California Institute of Technology is in Pasadena, CA
Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Caltech is $18,902 per year, compared to $15,608 at Grinnell College. Grinnell College is $3,294 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Caltech typically score between 1530-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Grinnell College, the typical SAT range is 1410-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Caltech has a graduation rate of 94%, while Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%. Caltech has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Caltech has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, while Grinnell College has a ratio of 9:1. Caltech offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Caltech, 53% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $72,373. At Grinnell College, 94% of students receive aid with an average grant of $49,077.
The median earnings for Caltech graduates 10 years after enrollment is $128,566, compared to $62,830 for Grinnell College graduates. Graduates from Caltech tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Caltech is located in Pasadena, CA in a city: midsize setting. Grinnell College is located in Grinnell, IA in a town: remote setting.

