College Comparison
Caltech vs University of Arizona: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Caltech
Pasadena, CA
School
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | University of Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 85.7% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 1160–1420wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 21–30 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255 | $41,095wins |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902 | $15,960wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $59,979 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2%wins | 65.9% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 87.7% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 19:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 40,769wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Caltech edges out University of Arizona on 5 of 9 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Caltech Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.1%
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $128,566
- ✓Graduation Rate: 93.2%
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.8%
University of Arizona Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1160–1420
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $41,095
- ✓Avg Net Price: $15,960
- ✓Total Enrollment: 40,769
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