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California Institute of Technology vs University of California, Los Angeles

California Institute of Technology logo

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, United States

QS Rank: #10
University of California, Los Angeles logo

University of California, Los Angeles

Los Angeles, United States

QS Rank: #46

AI Counselor Verdict

Prestige & Culture PK

Caltech excels in deep, specialized science and engineering within a small, intensely focused research environment, renowned globally for rigor. UCLA offers a world-class, comprehensive public university experience, blending strong academics across diverse disciplines with a vibrant campus culture and wider prestige.

Discipline Matches & Majors

For unparalleled theoretical and experimental research, Caltech's Aerospace Engineering program is superior. Conversely, the University of California, Los Angeles, with its renowned School of Theater, Film and Television, dominates for students pursuing cinematic arts and media.

Decision Golden Rule

Choose Caltech if you seek singular, deep scientific or engineering inquiry within a demanding, research-intensive niche. Opt for UCLA if you desire a top-tier, comprehensive education, robust social opportunities, and diverse academic exploration.

Focus View

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.

No discipline selected yet

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

Geophysics#4
Geology#6
Earth and Marine Sciences#6

University of California, Exclusive Edge

Geography#7
English Language and Literature#8
Anthropology#8

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.

Pasadena Expenses
Rent & Utilities$1100/mo
Food & Dining$400/mo
Public Transport$90/mo
Total Monthly Budget
$1590 / month
Los Angeles Expenses
Rent & Utilities$2100/mo
Food & Dining$550/mo
Public Transport$130/mo
Total Monthly Budget
$2780 / month
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