College Comparison
Caltech vs Boston College: 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
Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | Boston College |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 15.7% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 1430–1540wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 33–34 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255wins | $67,680 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902wins | $39,866 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $103,937 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2%wins | 91.0% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 95.4% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 13:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 9,865wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Caltech edges out Boston College on 7 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%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,255
- ✓Avg Net Price: $18,902
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $128,566
Boston College Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1430–1540
- ✓Total Enrollment: 9,865
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