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California Institute of Technology

The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs for international students. Below is an overview of the application process, available courses, fees, and English language requirements for the 2026 academic year.

Courses and Subjects

The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) offers a diverse array of academic programs across its six divisions, encompassing both undergraduate and graduate studies. Here's an organized overview of the major departments and areas of study:

Academic Divisions and Departments

  1. Division of Biology and Biological Engineering (BBE)
    • Biology
    • Bioengineering
    • Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics
    • Neurobiology
    • Systems Biology
  2. Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (CCE)
    • Chemistry
    • Chemical Engineering
    • Materials Science
  3. Division of Engineering and Applied Science (EAS)
    • Aerospace (GALCIT)
    • Applied Physics and Materials Science
    • Computing and Mathematical Sciences
    • Electrical Engineering
    • Environmental Science and Engineering
    • Mechanical and Civil Engineering
    • Medical Engineering
  4. Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences (GPS)
    • Geology
    • Geochemistry
    • Geophysics
    • Planetary Science
    • Environmental Science
  5. Division of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS)
    • History and Philosophy of Science
    • Economics
    • Political Science
    • Psychology
    • Social Science
    • Philosophy
    • English
    • Languages
  6. Division of Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy (PMA)
    • Physics
    • Mathematics
    • Astrophysics
    • Applied & Computational Mathematics
    • Control & Dynamical Systems

Course Catalog and Areas of Study

Caltech's 2024–2025 academic catalog provides detailed information on courses, degree requirements, and academic policies. The catalog includes subjects such as:

  • Aerospace
  • Applied & Computational Mathematics
  • Applied Physics
  • Astrophysics
  • Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics
  • Bioengineering
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Geology
  • History and Philosophy of Science
  • Materials Science
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Medical Engineering
  • Neurobiology
  • Physics
  • Social Science

You can explore the full catalog here:

Majors and Minors

Caltech offers a range of undergraduate majors and minors, including:

  • Applied and Computational Mathematics
  • Astrophysics
  • Bioengineering
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Geological and Planetary Sciences
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Physics
  • Political Science

For a comprehensive list of majors and minors, visit:

 
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Tuition Fees

  • Undergraduate Tuition: For the 2025–2026 academic year, undergraduate tuition is approximately $60,864. Additional costs for housing, meals, books, and personal expenses bring the total estimated annual cost to around $80,000.
  • Graduate Tuition: Graduate tuition for the 2025–2026 academic year is approximately $60,864. However, as most graduate students receive financial support, their out-of-pocket expenses are often reduced.
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IELTS Requirements

  • International applicants whose native language is not English or who have not attended an English-language secondary school for at least two years must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test (DET) scores. The minimum required scores are:
    • TOEFL iBT: 100
    • IELTS: 7.0
    • DET: 120
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Application Process

Undergraduate Programs

International applicants follow the same application procedures as U.S. students, with some additional requirements:

  • Application Portal: Caltech uses the Common Application, the Coalition Application, and the Quest Bridge Application.
  • Application Fee: $75; fee waivers are available for eligible students.
  • Standardized Tests: Caltech has suspended the SAT and ACT test score requirement for first-year applicants for the 2025–2026 academic year.
  • English Proficiency: International applicants whose native language is not English or who have not attended an English-language secondary school for at least two years must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test (DET) scores. The minimum required scores are:
    • TOEFL iBT: 100
    • IELTS: 7.0
    • DET: 120
  • Academic Requirements: Applicants should have completed coursework in calculus, physics, and chemistry. Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses are recommended.
  • Financial Aid: Caltech offers need-based financial aid to international students. Applicants seeking financial aid must submit the CSS Profile and may be required to provide additional documentation. It's important to apply for financial aid at the time of admission, as those who do not apply or qualify upon admission may not be eligible in subsequent years.

Graduate Programs

Caltech's graduate programs have specific application processes and requirements that vary by department:

  • Application Portal: Applications are submitted through Caltech's Graduate Studies Office. The application portal for Fall 2026 admissions will open in October 2025.
  • Application Fee: $100; fee waivers may be available for eligible applicants.
  • Academic Requirements: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent before beginning graduate study. Specific prerequisites vary by program.
  • Standardized Tests: GRE requirements differ by department; applicants should consult the specific program's admissions page for details.
  • English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores. Minimum score requirements vary by department.
  • Financial Aid: Most graduate students receive financial support in the form of fellowships, research assistantships, or teaching assistantships. Funding packages typically cover tuition and provide a stipend for living expenses.

Application Deadlines

  • Undergraduate Applicants:
    • Regular Decision: January 3, 2026
  • Graduate Applicants:
    • Deadlines vary by department; applicants should consult the specific program's admissions page for exact dates.

Additional Information

For comprehensive and up-to-date details regarding applications, courses, fees, and other inquiries, please visit Caltech's Undergraduate Admissions and Graduate Studies Office websites.

Please note that application procedures and requirements may change, so it's essential to refer to the official university sources for the most current information.

 

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