College Comparison
Stanford University 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
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
School
Caltech
Pasadena, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Stanford | Caltech |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.9% | 3.1%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1580wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $62,484wins | $63,255 |
| Avg Net Price | $12,136wins | $18,902 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $124,080 | $128,566wins |
| Graduation Rate | 92.8% | 93.2%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 97.8% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1 | 3:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 7,841wins | 1,023 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Stanford edges out Caltech 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.
Stanford Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1580
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $62,484
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,136
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.8%
Caltech Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.1%
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $128,566
- ✓Graduation Rate: 93.2%
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 3:1
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