BS Chemistry at California Institute of Technology

Programme overview

Builds fluency in the molecular sciences through coursework and laboratory experience in organic and inorganic chemistry, chemical physics, theoretical chemistry, chemical biology and biochemistry; a Biochemistry Track is available and the diploma then reads Chemistry (Biochemistry).

Faculty: Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering | Department: Chemistry | Duration: 4 years (12 terms of enrollment; 486 units of passing grades required) | Study mode: full-time | Intake: Fall | Location: Pasadena, CA, United States

What you will study

Two-term general chemistry (Ch 1 ab) for all first-year students followed by advanced coursework, laboratory work and undergraduate research, with a senior research thesis for the Biochemistry Track.

Career pathways

Prepares students for graduate study and careers in teaching and research at colleges and universities, research for government and industry, chemical technology and leadership and policy positions.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

University-wide first-year admission (not major-specific; students enter an option after the common first year). Expected preparation: four years of math including one year of calculus, one year of physics, one year of chemistry, one year of biology recommended, four years of English, two years of history and/or social sciences. SAT or ACT required (individual subscores considered); two letters of recommendation (one STEM teacher, one humanities or social science teacher) plus a Secondary School Report and essays; English proficiency (TOEFL iBT, IELTS or Duolingo) for applicants whose first language is not English and who were not taught in English. Applications via Common App or QuestBridge; Restrictive Early Action deadline November 1, Regular Decision January 4, 2027. Caltech does not admit applicants who already hold a bachelor's degree from another institution (such applicants apply as transfers).

USD 68,574 a year (2026-27). Tuition only for full-time undergraduates in 2026-27 (excludes student fees, housing and food). Same rate for all undergraduates; tuition is billed for 12 terms. Source

First-year entry is in the fall term. Caltech does not admit transfer students for the winter or spring terms.

First-year applicants apply through the Common App or the QuestBridge Application. Restrictive Early Action applications are due November 1, 2026 (decision by mid-December; reply by May 1, 2027); Regular Decision applications are due January 4, 2027 (decision by mid-March). The application fee is $85. SAT or ACT scores are required (scores due before November 30, 2026 for Restrictive Early Action and before December 31, 2026 for Regular Decision).

Transfer applications are due February 1, 2027, with transfer exams due February 15, 2027, notification in mid-April and a reply deadline of June 1, 2027. The transfer application fee is $85, paid through the Beaver Breakroom application portal.

Apply through the official page: https://www.admissions.caltech.edu/

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