Difficulty of getting into Caltech

Hey everyone, I've been really interested in applying to Caltech, but I'm not sure about how difficult it is to get accepted. Can someone give me an idea of what kind of stats and extracurriculars I should have to be competitive for admission?

Hey! Caltech is definitely a highly-selective institution, and admissions can be quite competitive. To give you a better idea of the applicant profile, I'll break it down into academics and extracurriculars.

Academics:

Caltech values a strong STEM background, so you'll want to excel in advanced math and science courses. Taking relevant Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses and scoring well on the exams can show your proficiency in these subjects. Generally, successful applicants have an unweighted GPA of around 3.9-4.0 and SAT or ACT scores in the upper percentiles, but remember that Caltech is now test-blind, so they won't be considering standardized test scores in their admissions process starting from Fall 2023.

Extracurriculars:

Caltech looks for students who are not just academically strong but also demonstrate a passion for STEM fields through their extracurricular activities. Tier 1 and Tier 2 extracurricular activities related to STEM can make your application more competitive. Examples include winning awards at national competitions like the Regeneron Science Talent Search, participating in prestigious summer programs, conducting independent research projects, or being involved in math/science clubs like Math Olympiad or Science Bowl. Additionally, experience in STEM-related internships, workshops, or volunteering programs can show your dedication to the field.

However, don't forget to showcase your interests and passions beyond STEM as well. Caltech values well-rounded students, so other activities such as playing an instrument, participating in clubs or sports, or engaging in community service can add depth to your application.

Lastly, Caltech's essays provide an opportunity for you to demonstrate your knowledge of the school and its values, as well as to share more about your life experiences and personal qualities.

In summary, to be competitive for Caltech admissions, you should aim to have a strong academic performance (particularly in STEM subjects), demonstrate dedication to your chosen field through significant extracurricular accomplishments, and convey a genuine interest in Caltech through your essays. Good luck with your application!