California Institute of Technology vs Peking University
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, United States
Peking University
Haidian, Beijing, China
Head-to-Head Headliner Comparison
Scan the essential comparative metrics side-by-side to guide your final choice.
| Comparative Indicators | California Institute of Technology | Peking University |
|---|---|---|
| QS World Rank (2025/2026) | #10 | #14 |
| THE World Rank (2025) | #7 | #13 |
| ARWU Shanghai Rank | #9 | #23 |
| US News Global Rank | #23 | #31 |
| Acceptance Rate | 3% | 5% |
| Annual Tuition (Intl) | $62,388 | $4,200 |
| Established Year | 1891 | 1898 |
| Total Students Count | 2,430 | 44,730 |
| Campus Safety Rating | 92 / 100 | 93 / 100 |
5-Year Ranking Trajectory
Compare dynamic overall prestige ranking shifts over the past 5 years (lower value = higher rank).
Executive AI Admissions Counselor Verdict
Global Prestige & Reputation Vibe
Caltech offers an intensely focused, small-scale, research-heavy STEM experience rooted in American academic rigor and innovation. Peking University presents a broad, comprehensive intellectual journey within a vast Chinese cultural and academic landscape, highly influential across Asia. Both are globally prestigious but cater to distinct cultural aspirations.
Elite Academic Strengths & Major Comparison
For unparalleled depth in Aerospace Engineering and advanced scientific research, California Institute of Technology is clearly superior. However, for a profound and leading education in Chinese Language and Literature, or East Asian studies generally, Peking University dominates.
Campus Culture & Daily Student Vibe
Choose Caltech if your singular focus is cutting-edge STEM research in a demanding, intimate US setting. Choose Peking for a comprehensive, culturally immersive education, seeking leadership in East Asian or global contexts.
Discipline Focus Showdown
Click on any subject in the QS Showdown table below to dynamically compare specific majors, annual tuition fees, and scholarship opportunities side-by-side.
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Click any subject in the QS Rankings Showdown table below to instantly unlock side-by-side program profiles and specific global international scholarships!
QS Subject Rankings Showdown
Head-to-head QS subject rankings. Click on any subject row to dynamically pull direct courses and scholarships in the Discipline Focus card above!
California Institute of Exclusive Edge
Peking University Exclusive Edge
Source: QS World University Rankings by Subject. Rankings reflect the best available year in our database.
Cost of Living Face-off
Detailed ballpark monthly student expenditure comparison based on city indices.
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