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Stanford University and California Institute of Technology are both private nonprofit institutions — Stanford University in Stanford, CA and California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Stanford, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 3.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,554
Tuition: $65,910/year
Student-faculty ratio: 6.0:1
Graduation rate: 91.9%
Top programs: Computer science, Social sciences, Engineering
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Stanford, CA with published program strength in Computer science and Social sciences.
Pasadena, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 2.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 987
Tuition: $65,898/year
Student-faculty ratio: 3.0:1
Graduation rate: 94.4%
Top programs: Computer science, Engineering, Physical sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Pasadena, CA with published program strength in Computer science and Engineering.
| Factor | Stanford University | California Institute of Technology |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 3.6% | 2.6% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1510–1580 |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 34–35 | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,554 | 987 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $65,910/year | $65,898/year |
| Average net price after aid | $13,807 | $16,075 |
| Graduation rate | 91.9% | 94.4% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $124,080 | $128,566 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 6.0:1 | 3.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Stanford, CA | Pasadena, CA |
| Largest program areas | Computer science, Social sciences, Engineering | Computer science, Engineering, Physical sciences |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (3.6% vs 2.6%). Stanford University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($13,807 vs $16,075). California Institute of Technology reports the higher graduation rate (94.4% vs 91.9%). Stanford University is the larger undergraduate campus (7,554 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Stanford University and California Institute of Technology
Stanford University has an acceptance rate of 3.6%; California Institute of Technology is around 2.6%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Stanford University tuition is $65,910/year. California Institute of Technology is $65,898/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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