College Comparison
Caltech vs Rice University: 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
Rice University
Houston, TX
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | Rice |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 7.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 1500–1570wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 34–36 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255 | $58,128wins |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902 | $12,640wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $89,718 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2% | 95.7%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 97.6% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 6:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 4,562wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Rice 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%
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $128,566
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.8%
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 3:1
Rice Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,128
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,640
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.7%
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