Caltech vs Princeton
How Caltech and Princeton stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Caltech | Princeton | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 3% | 4.4% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1530-1580 | Not reported |
| Testing policy | Required | Required |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | CA | NJ |
| Sticker price (per year) | $90,822 | $84,590 |
| Average cost after aid | $23,397 | $18,003 |
| Supplemental essays | 2 | 4 |
- Caltech is harder to get into than Princeton (3% versus 4.4%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Princeton is usually the cheaper option ($18,003 versus $23,397 per year on average).
- Princeton asks for more supplemental writing (4 essays versus 2), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Caltech vs Princeton FAQ
Is Caltech or Princeton harder to get into?
Caltech is harder to get into, admitting about 3% of applicants versus 4.4% at Princeton.
Is Caltech or Princeton cheaper?
After financial aid, Princeton is usually cheaper, about $18,003 per year on average versus $23,397 at Caltech.
See your real chances at Caltech and Princeton.
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