Quick Stats: Caltech | US News #9 | SAT 1530-1580 | 3.2% acceptance | Required
SAT Requirements
For students applying for Fall 2026 entry and beyond, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) requires applicants to submit either SAT or ACT scores. This marks a significant shift from their previous test-optional and test-free policies.
Caltech will superscore the SAT, meaning the admissions committee will consider the highest score achieved in each individual section (Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing) across all reported test dates. Because of this superscoring policy, it is generally to your advantage to take the test multiple times if you believe you can improve your score in a specific section. You can use Score Choice to submit only the test dates that include your highest section scores.
SAT Score Breakdown
Caltech is exceptionally competitive, and admitted students typically submit near-perfect standardized test scores. The middle 50% SAT composite score for admitted students ranges from 1530 to 1580.
Here is the middle 50% breakdown by section:
- Math: 790-800
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW): 740-780
Given that the 25th percentile for Math is a 790, you essentially need a perfect or near-perfect Math score to be competitive. If you are preparing for the test, mastering advanced concepts is critical. Check out our Advanced Math guide and Algebra guide to ensure you are hitting the highest possible marks.
Admission Tips
- Demonstrate Exceptional STEM Aptitude: Caltech is heavily focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Your application must show not just interest, but profound capability in these areas through advanced coursework, research, or competitions.
- Maximize Your Math Score: With the middle 50% Math SAT score sitting at 790-800, a perfect 800 is practically the standard. Focus intensely on your quantitative preparation.
- Show Passion for Discovery: Caltech's holistic review process looks for students who are genuinely curious and driven to solve complex problems. Use your essays to highlight specific research interests or projects you've undertaken.
Application Deadlines
Caltech offers Restrictive Early Action (REA) and Regular Decision (RD) rounds. If you apply REA, you cannot apply Early Action or Early Decision to any other private institution.
| Round | Deadline | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Restrictive Early Action | November 1 | Mid-December |
| Regular Decision | January 5 | Mid-March |
Note: Standardized testing must be completed by November 30 for REA and December 31 for RD.
FAQ
What SAT score do I need for Caltech?
To be highly competitive, you should aim for a composite score between 1530 and 1580. Specifically, you should strive for a 790-800 on the Math section and a 740-780 on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section.
Is Caltech test-optional?
No. Starting with the Fall 2026 admissions cycle, Caltech requires all applicants to submit either SAT or ACT scores.
Does Caltech superscore the SAT?
Yes, Caltech superscores the SAT. They will take your highest Math score and your highest EBRW score across all your test dates to form your highest possible composite score.
What is the acceptance rate at Caltech?
Caltech is one of the most selective universities in the world. The acceptance rate typically hovers around 2.5% to 3.2% (recently dropping to 2.5% for the Class of 2028), making admission exceptionally competitive.