California Institute of Technology

Rank 7
Location California Institute of Technology
Established 1891
Famous For Science, Engineering

Overview

Situated in picturesque Pasadena, California, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is regarded as a leader of pure and applied sciences, earning global acclaim since its inception in 1891.

Caltech's six academic divisions specialize in science and engineering, managing substantial sponsored research funds. The sprawling 124-acre campus offers a supportive community through its House System, a nurturing space where freshman students are required to reside.

California Institute of Technology's impact transcends borders, shaping sustainability science, quantum physics, earthquake monitoring, protein engineering, and soft robotics. The university's remarkable distinction lies in its impressive 79 Nobel laureates, a testament to its indelible mark on global research and discovery.

Caltech's legacy of scientific exploration calls out to international students with a thirst for knowledge and a passion to shape the future. Embracing this esteemed institution means becoming a vital member of a remarkable community that fuels innovation and fosters exploration, setting the stage for a profound and transformative educational experience.

Services for International Students

International students are embraced by a comprehensive range of support services aimed at ensuring their smooth transition and success. The International Students Office (ISO) serves as a hub for guidance on immigration, cultural adaptation, and practical matters. The Caltech Y, a student-led organization, fosters a sense of community through its diverse programs and events, enhancing cross-cultural understanding.

The International Peer Advocates (IPA) program connects incoming students with experienced peers who provide invaluable insights and assistance. The Graduate International Friendship Society (GIFS) creates a welcoming space for international graduate students, facilitating connections and easing integration.

The Student Counseling Center offers mental health support, while the Career Development Center aids students in exploring career paths. Furthermore, student societies like the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE) and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) promote cultural awareness and academic growth. Caltech's commitment to international students' welfare underscores its dedication to fostering a thriving global community.

Ranking

  • 15th in QS World University Rankings 2024
  • 10th in U.S. News Best Value Schools Ranking 2024
  • 7th in U.S. News National Universities Ranking 2024
  • 7th in THE World University Rankings 2024
  • 7th in THE US College Rankings 2022
  • 11th THE World Reputation Rankings 2022

Accommodation

Caltech offers a diverse range of student accommodation options tailored to cater to various needs. The Bechtel Residence is a standout choice, boasting individual rooms and suites with amenities like data ports, WiFi access, and individual climate control. The residence houses common lounges, kitchens, laundry rooms, and study spaces, promoting a comfortable and productive living environment. Bechtel offers a variety of configurations, including individual singles, 4-bedroom suites, 6-bedroom suites, 8-bedroom suites, and 12-bedroom suites, each equipped with private facilities.

In addition to Bechtel, there's Marks/Braun House, which features single and double rooms, as well as Avery House, offering single, double, and triple room options with accessible facilities, lounges, kitchens, and dining areas. The North Houses (Lloyd House, Page House, Venerable House) and South Houses (Blacker House, Dabney House, Fleming House, Ricketts House) provide further choices, ranging from singles to triples, with various common areas and amenities.

About Location

The California Institute of Technology is located in Pasadena, California. Situated just 11 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles, the campus offers a blend of academic excellence and a vibrant community. Pasadena itself boasts a rich cultural scene, including museums, galleries, and theaters, along with picturesque parks and gardens that provide relaxation and recreational opportunities.

The surrounding area offers a diverse range of attractions, from exploring the Norton Simon Museum's art collection to enjoying performances at the Pasadena Playhouse. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby San Gabriel Mountains offer hiking and outdoor activities.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), a major international gateway, is approximately 30 miles away from Caltech's campus. The convenient proximity to the airport ensures easy access for international students and visitors, connecting them to destinations around the world.

Alumni

  • Douglas D. Osheroff - Nobel laureate whose pioneering work in low-temperature physics led to breakthroughs in superfluidity.
  • William Shockley - Nobel laureate and co-inventor of the solid-state transistor, a foundational technology for modern electronics.
  • Vernon Smith - Nobel laureate recognized for his innovative research in experimental economics and auction theory.
  • Fernando J. Corbató - Turing Award laureate whose work revolutionized computer operating systems.
  • John McCarthy - Turing Award laureate and inventor of the Lisp programming language, shaping the field of artificial intelligence.
  • Harrison Schmitt - Astronaut and Senator who made history as the only geologist to walk on the Moon.
  • Kip Thorne - Nobel laureate for his groundbreaking contributions to astrophysics and his role in detecting gravitational waves.

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