Caltech entrance requirements?

Hey there! I'm getting ready to apply to colleges and I have my eyes on Caltech. Can anyone provide me with more information on their entrance requirements? Like, what sort of coursework, test scores, and extracurricular involvement should I have to be a competitive applicant?

Hello! It's great that you're interested in applying to Caltech. As a highly selective institution, Caltech is looking for students with strong academic profiles, well-rounded extracurricular activities, and fit for their unique educational environment.

Coursework: Caltech expects applicants to take the most challenging courses offered by their schools. You should have a strong foundation in math and science, with an emphasis on advanced coursework such as AP or IB classes if possible. Typically, the minimum coursework includes:

- 4 years of math (including calculus);

- 1 year of physics;

- 1 year of chemistry;

- 3 years of a foreign language;

- 4 years of English; and

- 1 year of U.S. history or government.

Test Scores: Starting from the 2024-2025 application cycle, Caltech is no longer test-optional. You will need to submit either SAT or ACT scores. While Caltech doesn't have a strict cutoff, most admitted students have scores in the top percentiles. Aiming for a score above 1500 on the SAT or a 34 on the ACT is a good goal.

Extracurricular Involvement: Caltech is seeking students who show passion and expertise in their chosen fields. Your extracurricular activities should demonstrate your commitment to math, science, or technology and highlight any significant achievements, such as participating in math or science competitions, publishing research papers, or receiving awards for your work.

Keep in mind that quality is more important than quantity in your extracurriculars. Caltech wants to see depth in your involvement, so focus on a few activities that genuinely interest you and where you can make a meaningful contribution.

Finally, don't forget about the importance of essays and letters of recommendation. These materials help paint a comprehensive picture of you as an applicant and substantiate your potential for success at Caltech. If you're looking for tips on how to tackle your Caltech-specific essays, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-caltech-essays

Remember, Caltech looks for a strong fit with its collaborative and research-focused environment. Make sure to learn about their culture and emphasize your alignment with their values in your application. Good luck in your application process!