California Institute of Technology

If there are aspects of your life or social or personal identity that you feel are not captured elsewhere in this application, please tell us about them below. 

Your STEM Future: Academic Interests

Caltech has a rigorous core curriculum and students don't declare a major until the end of their first year. However, some students arrive knowing which academic fields and areas already most excite them, or which novel fields and areas they most want to explore.

If you had to choose an area of interest or two today, what would you choose?

Note that you are under no obligation to follow this choice if admitted.

Indicate your proposed area of interest at Caltech or select 'Undecided'. If your specific interest is not captured on this list, select 'Other'.

If you have one, indicate your second area of interest at Caltech, or select 'Undecided'. If your specific interest is not captured on this list, select 'Other'.

Why did you choose your proposed area of interest? If you selected ‘other’, what topics are you interested in pursuing?

Your STEM Present: Curiosity

Regardless of your STEM interest listed above, take this opportunity to nerd out and talk to us about whatever STEM rabbit hole you have found yourself falling into. Be as specific or broad as you would like.

When not surveying the stars, peering through microscopes, or running through coding marathons, Caltech students pursue an eclectic array of interests that range from speed-cubing, reading, yoga, playing musical instruments and theater arts, to solving puzzles, hiking, painting, and building or inventing new gadgets. We understand that everyone needs an outlet or two.  

What is a favorite interest or hobby, and why does it bring you joy?

Your STEM Past: Prior Experiences

At Caltech, we investigate some of the most challenging, fundamental problems in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. We are interested in learning more about your engagement with STEM. 

Please share two STEM-related experiences:

1. Tell us how you initially found your interest and passion for science or any STEM topic and how you have pursued or developed this interest or passion.

2. Tell us about a STEM-related experience from the last few years and share how and why it inspired your curiosity.

Did you have a hard time narrowing it down to just one interest or hobby? We understand – Caltech students like to stay busy, too. Tell us about another hobby or interest!

Creativity in Action

The creativity, inventiveness, and innovation of Caltech's students, faculty, and researchers have won Nobel Prizes and put rovers on Mars. But Techers also imagine smaller-scale innovations every day, from new ways to design solar cells to how to 3D-print dorm decor to experimenting in the kitchen. How have you been a creator, inventor, or innovator in your own life?

Caltech's Values

Caltech’s values include respect for a diversity of thoughts and ideas. How have you cultivated this value in your own life?