College Comparison
Caltech vs UC Berkeley: 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
UC Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | UC Berkeley |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 11.7% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255 | $45,627wins |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902 | $14,979wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $92,446 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2%wins | 92.9% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 96.8% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 33,073wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Caltech edges out UC Berkeley on 5 of 8 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%
UC Berkeley Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,627
- ✓Avg Net Price: $14,979
- ✓Total Enrollment: 33,073
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