College Comparison
California Institute of Technology vs Rice 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
Houston, TX
Total Enrollment
2,430
8,961
Undergrad Enrollment
987
4,789
Student-Faculty Ratio
3:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
2.6%
8.0%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1530–1580
1510–1570
ACT Range
35–36
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
13,856
32,473
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,762
$72,200
Avg Net Price
$18,902
$12,640
Tuition (In-State)
$58,479
$54,100
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,479
$54,100
Room & Board
$20,283
$18,100
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
56.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$72,373
$56,199
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$128,566
$89,718
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Explore by Location
California Institute of Technology is in Pasadena, CA
Rice is in Houston, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Caltech is $18,902 per year, compared to $12,640 at Rice University. Rice University is $6,262 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Caltech typically score between 1530-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Rice University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Caltech has a graduation rate of 94%, while Rice University has a graduation rate of 93%. Caltech has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Caltech has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, while Rice University has a ratio of 6:1. 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 Rice University, 56% of students receive aid with an average grant of $56,199.
The median earnings for Caltech graduates 10 years after enrollment is $128,566, compared to $89,718 for Rice 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. Rice University is located in Houston, TX in a city: large setting.

