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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

MetricCaltechNotre Dame
Acceptance Rate3.1%wins12.4%
SAT Range (25th–75th)N/A1440–1540wins
ACT Range (25th–75th)N/A33–35
Tuition (Out-of-State)$63,255$62,693wins
Avg Net Price$18,902wins$27,823
Median Earnings (10 yr)$128,566wins$99,980
Graduation Rate93.2%96.8%wins
Retention Rate97.8%98.2%wins
Student–Faculty Ratio3:1wins9:1
Total Enrollment1,0238,923wins

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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