College Comparison
MIT vs Caltech: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more — updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
MIT
Cambridge, MA
School
Caltech
Pasadena, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | MIT | Caltech |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.7% | 3.1%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1580wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $60,156wins | $63,255 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,813 | $18,902wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $143,372wins | $128,566 |
| Graduation Rate | 96.1%wins | 93.2% |
| Retention Rate | 99.0%wins | 97.8% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 3:1 | 3:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 4,571wins | 1,023 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, MIT edges out Caltech on 6 of 8 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.
MIT Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1580
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $60,156
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $143,372
- ✓Graduation Rate: 96.1%
Caltech Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.1%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $18,902
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