California Institute of Technology vs Shanghai Jiao Tong University
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, United States
Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Shanghai, 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 | Shanghai Jiao Tong University |
|---|---|---|
| QS World Rank (2025/2026) | #10 | #47 |
| THE World Rank (2025) | #7 | #52 |
| ARWU Shanghai Rank | #9 | #30 |
| US News Global Rank | #23 | #54 |
| Acceptance Rate | 3% | 8% |
| Annual Tuition (Intl) | $62,388 | $6,000 |
| Established Year | 1891 | 1896 |
| Total Students Count | 2,430 | 42,752 |
| 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 unparalleled, hyper-focused STEM immersion in an intensely rigorous US environment, renowned globally for elite specialization. Shanghai Jiao Tong University provides a broader, comprehensive engineering and science education, integrated with China's dynamic industrial landscape, gaining strong regional and international acclaim.
Elite Academic Strengths & Major Comparison
Caltech's Theoretical Physics offers unmatched depth in fundamental sciences. Shanghai Jiao Tong University's Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering is a historic powerhouse, deeply integrated with industry in its unique specialized field.
Campus Culture & Daily Student Vibe
Choose Caltech for extreme academic rigor and pioneering fundamental research in a focused US setting. Opt for Shanghai Jiao Tong if you seek comprehensive, industry-connected engineering with significant career opportunities in the burgeoning Asian market.
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.
California Institute of Programs
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Shanghai Jiao Tong Programs
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Exclusive Scholarships Face-off
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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
Shanghai Jiao Tong 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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