College Comparison
California Institute of Technology vs University of Chicago
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Pasadena, CA
Chicago, IL
Total Enrollment
2,430
18,566
Undergrad Enrollment
987
7,598
Student-Faculty Ratio
3:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
2.6%
4.5%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1530–1580
1510–1580
ACT Range
35–36
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$75
Total Applicants
13,856
43,612
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,762
$81,288
Avg Net Price
$18,902
$18,967
Tuition (In-State)
$58,479
$61,179
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,479
$61,179
Room & Board
$20,283
$20,109
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
47.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$72,373
$62,300
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$128,566
$91,885
More Comparisons
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Explore by Location
California Institute of Technology is in Pasadena, CA
Chicago is in Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Caltech is $18,902 per year, compared to $18,967 at University of Chicago. Caltech is $65 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Caltech typically score between 1530-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Chicago, 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 University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 96%. University of Chicago has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Caltech has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, while University of Chicago has a ratio of 5:1. 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 University of Chicago, 47% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,300.
The median earnings for Caltech graduates 10 years after enrollment is $128,566, compared to $91,885 for University of Chicago 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. University of Chicago is located in Chicago, IL in a city: large setting.

