College Comparison
California Institute of Technology vs Southern Methodist 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
Dallas, TX
Total Enrollment
2,430
12,116
Undergrad Enrollment
987
7,285
Student-Faculty Ratio
3:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
2.6%
63.4%
Average GPA
4.00
3.66
SAT Range
1530–1580
1340–1490
ACT Range
35–36
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$60
Total Applicants
13,856
15,245
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,762
$74,076
Avg Net Price
$18,902
$41,778
Tuition (In-State)
$58,479
$55,012
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,479
$55,012
Room & Board
$20,283
$19,064
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$72,373
$37,520
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
82.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
75.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$128,566
$78,354
More Comparisons
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Explore by Location
California Institute of Technology is in Pasadena, CA
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Caltech is $18,902 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Caltech is $22,876 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Caltech typically score between 1530-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Southern Methodist University, the typical SAT range is 1340-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Caltech has a graduation rate of 94%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. Caltech has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Caltech has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, while Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. 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 Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.
The median earnings for Caltech graduates 10 years after enrollment is $128,566, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist 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. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.

