Skip to content

College Comparison

Caltech vs Williams College: 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

Williams College

Williamstown, MA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricCaltechWilliams
Acceptance Rate3.1%wins10.0%
SAT Range (25th–75th)N/A1470–1560wins
ACT Range (25th–75th)N/A33–35
Tuition (Out-of-State)$63,255wins$64,860
Avg Net Price$18,902$14,852wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$128,566wins$88,665
Graduation Rate93.2%96.5%wins
Retention Rate97.8%wins96.5%
Student–Faculty Ratio3:1wins6:1
Total Enrollment1,0232,060wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Caltech edges out Williams 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%
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,255
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $128,566
  • Retention Rate: 97.8%

Williams Strengths

  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1470–1560
  • Avg Net Price: $14,852
  • Graduation Rate: 96.5%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,060

Want a deeper comparison?

Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.

Open Compare Tool

Related Comparisons