California Institute of Technology vs University of California, Los Angeles
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, United States
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States
Head-to-Head Headliner Comparison
Scan the essential comparative metrics side-by-side to guide your final choice.
| Comparative Indicators | California Institute of Technology | University of California, Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| QS World Rank (2025/2026) | #10 | #46 |
| THE World Rank (2025) | #7 | #18 |
| ARWU Shanghai Rank | #9 | #16 |
| US News Global Rank | #23 | #11 |
| Acceptance Rate | 3% | 9% |
| Annual Tuition (Intl) | $62,388 | $46,296 |
| Established Year | 1891 | 1919 |
| Total Students Count | 2,430 | 46,430 |
| Campus Safety Rating | 92 / 100 | 90 / 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 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.
Elite Academic Strengths & Major Comparison
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.
Campus Culture & Daily Student Vibe
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.
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
University of California, 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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