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College Comparison

Caltech vs University of Rochester: 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 Rochester

Rochester, NY

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricCaltechU of Rochester
Acceptance Rate3.1%wins35.9%
SAT Range (25th–75th)N/A1400–1540wins
ACT Range (25th–75th)N/A31–34
Tuition (Out-of-State)$63,255wins$64,348
Avg Net Price$18,902wins$30,248
Median Earnings (10 yr)$128,566wins$79,042
Graduation Rate93.2%wins84.5%
Retention Rate97.8%wins92.5%
Student–Faculty Ratio3:1wins9:1
Total Enrollment1,0236,488wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Caltech edges out U of Rochester 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

U of Rochester Strengths

  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1400–1540
  • Total Enrollment: 6,488

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