In spring 2022, 432 of the strongest young minds received the news that they were accepted for admission into Caltech, marking the culmination of years of hard work and the fulfillment of many dreams.

These students aren’t just exceptional—they bring an extraordinary aptitude for science and math along with a wealth of personal experience to the table. This year, we invited a record number of students from sub-Saharan Africa (seven), along with students from 25 other countries. The majority of the class—about 66 percent—attended public schools. And over half of admitted students are female.

"Science is better when there are many different minds approaching it, and we tried to build that into the class as much as possible," says Ashley Pallie, director of undergraduate admissions.

Caltech also continued its 14-year partnership with QuestBridge National College Match, which connects high-achieving, low-income students to top colleges, with a record 35 admissions to QuestBridge students.

Option diversity is also important to Caltech, with members of the incoming class selecting 25 majors as possible future fields of study. Proposed majors include geophysics, mathematics, mechanical engineering, chemistry, physics, computer science, political science, geochemistry, planetary science, and materials science.

Caltech faculty play a key role in the admissions process, reading applications and advocating for individual candidates. This, Pallie notes, is a level of engagement rare among the Institute's peers.

Caltech’s mission is to expand human knowledge and benefit society through research integrated with education. We investigate the most challenging, fundamental problems in science and technology and prepare outstanding students to become creative members of society. Composed of brilliant students from widely different backgrounds and experiences, the Class of 2026 is up to the task.