California Institute of Technology vs Zhejiang University
01 · Global Academic Standing
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) offers unparalleled, intense STEM rigor and global elite research prestige within a focused, intimate setting. Zhejiang University provides a comprehensive, large-scale academic environment with strong domestic standing and growing international recognition across a broader range of disciplines.
02 · Departmental & Subject Strengths
Caltech excels in highly specialized areas like Theoretical Physics, driving fundamental scientific breakthroughs. Conversely, Zhejiang University is a powerhouse in disciplines such as Materials Science and Engineering, reflecting its diverse and robust engineering strengths.
03 · Campus Environment & Cohort Culture
Choose Caltech if your passion lies in deep, foundational STEM research and a focused, intense academic culture aiming for global scientific leadership. Opt for Zhejiang if you seek a comprehensive, interdisciplinary engineering and science education with vast opportunities in China's rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Head-to-Head Indicator Showdown
| Comparative Dimension | California Institute of Technology | Zhejiang University |
|---|---|---|
QS World University Rank Global employer & academic reputation index | #7 (2027)+40 places | #47 (2027) |
THE World University Rank Teaching, research environment & citations | #7 (2027)+27 places | #34 (2027) |
ARWU Shanghai Rank Nobel/Fields alumni & highly cited researchers | #10 (2026)+14 places | #24 (2026) |
U.S. News Global Rank Global research reputation & publications | #23 (2027)+12 places | #35 (2027) |
Admissions Selectivity Estimated acceptance rate (lower = more selective) | 3%More selective | 18% |
Annual International Tuition Estimated undergraduate/graduate base fee | $62,388 | $4,500Lower tuition |
Founding Heritage Year of institutional establishment | 1891Lead | 1897 |
Student Cohort Scale Total enrolled degree-seeking students | 2,430 | 60,000 |
Campus Safety Index Composite campus & surrounding municipal safety | 92 / 100 | 95 / 100Lead |
10-Year Historical Ranking Trajectory
Decade-long global standing curve across major league tables (higher curve position = stronger rank).
QS Subject Rankings Showdown
Click any discipline row to inspect side-by-side degree programs, tuition, and scholarships below.
| Academic Subject (Click to Inspect Programs) | California Institute of | Zhejiang University |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences | #6 | #38 |
| Engineering & Technology | #9 | #31 |
| Chemistry | #12 | #21 |
| Chemical Engineering | #12 | #26 |
| Electrical and Electronic Engineering | #14 | #35 |
California Institute of · Specialist Subject Standings
Zhejiang University · Specialist Subject Standings
California Institute of Programs
Refer to the official California Institute of course catalog for current intake fees.
Zhejiang University Programs
Refer to the official Zhejiang University course catalog for current intake fees.
Cost of Living & Annual Budget Face-off
Estimated monthly student expenditure in Pasadena vs Hangzhou alongside annual international tuition.
California Institute of (Pasadena)
Zhejiang University (Hangzhou)
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