College Comparison
Caltech vs WashU (St. Louis): 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
WashU (St. Louis)
St. Louis, MO
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Caltech | WashU |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.1%wins | 12.0% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 1500–1570wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | N/A | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,255 | $62,982wins |
| Avg Net Price | $18,902wins | $22,117 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $128,566wins | $86,182 |
| Graduation Rate | 93.2% | 94.5%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 95.9% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1wins | 7:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 1,023 | 7,897wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Caltech edges out WashU 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
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.8%
WashU Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $62,982
- ✓Graduation Rate: 94.5%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 7,897
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