College Comparison
Caltech vs University of Massachusetts-Amherst: 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 Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | UMass Amherst |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 57.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 1300–1480wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 29–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255 | $39,293wins |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902wins | $23,691 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $71,631 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2%wins | 83.2% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 91.0% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 23,694wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Caltech edges out UMass Amherst on 6 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
- ✓Graduation Rate: 93.2%
UMass Amherst Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1300–1480
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $39,293
- ✓Total Enrollment: 23,694
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