College Comparison
California Institute of Technology vs Stanford 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
Stanford, CA
Total Enrollment
2,430
18,625
Undergrad Enrollment
987
7,904
Student-Faculty Ratio
3:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
2.6%
3.6%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1530–1580
1510–1580
ACT Range
35–36
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$90
Total Applicants
13,856
57,326
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,762
$79,018
Avg Net Price
$18,902
$26,000
Tuition (In-State)
$58,479
$57,693
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,479
$57,693
Room & Board
$20,283
$21,325
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
61.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$72,373
$62,755
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
78.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$128,566
$124,080
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Explore by Location
California Institute of Technology is in Pasadena, CA
Stanford is in Stanford, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Caltech is $18,902 per year, compared to $26,000 at Stanford University. Caltech is $7,098 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Caltech typically score between 1530-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Stanford University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Caltech has a graduation rate of 94%, while Stanford University has a graduation rate of 96%. Stanford University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Caltech has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, while Stanford 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 Stanford University, 61% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,755.
The median earnings for Caltech graduates 10 years after enrollment is $128,566, compared to $124,080 for Stanford 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. Stanford University is located in Stanford, CA in a suburb: large setting.

