College Comparison
Caltech vs University of Notre Dame: 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 Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | Notre Dame |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 12.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 1440–1540wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255 | $62,693wins |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902wins | $27,823 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $99,980 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2% | 96.8%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.8% | 98.2%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 9:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 8,923wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Notre Dame edges out Caltech 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%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $18,902
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $128,566
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 3:1
Notre Dame Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1440–1540
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $62,693
- ✓Graduation Rate: 96.8%
- ✓Retention Rate: 98.2%
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