College Comparison
California Institute of Technology vs Northeastern University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Pasadena, CA
Boston, MA
Total Enrollment
2,430
32,553
Undergrad Enrollment
987
17,432
Student-Faculty Ratio
3:1
16:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
2.6%
5.2%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1530–1580
1440–1540
ACT Range
35–36
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
13,856
98,425
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,762
$78,680
Avg Net Price
$18,902
$32,116
Tuition (In-State)
$58,479
$59,100
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,479
$59,100
Room & Board
$20,283
$19,580
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
66.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$72,373
$50,421
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
35.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$128,566
$92,538
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Explore by Location
California Institute of Technology is in Pasadena, CA
Northeastern is in Boston, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Caltech is $18,902 per year, compared to $32,116 at Northeastern University. Caltech is $13,214 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Caltech typically score between 1530-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Northeastern University, the typical SAT range is 1440-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Caltech has a graduation rate of 94%, while Northeastern University has a graduation rate of 90%. Caltech has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Caltech has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, while Northeastern University has a ratio of 16:1. 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 Northeastern University, 66% of students receive aid with an average grant of $50,421.
The median earnings for Caltech graduates 10 years after enrollment is $128,566, compared to $92,538 for Northeastern University 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. Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting.