Caltech
Supplemental Essay Guide 2025-26

Caltech students don't declare a major until the end of first year, but applicants select up to two areas of interest from dropdown menus. "Why did you choose your proposed area of interest? If you selected ‘other’, what topics are you interested in pursuing? (200 words)"

"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. (50-150 words)"

"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. (100-200 words)"

"Tell us about a STEM-related experience from the last few years and share how and why it inspired your curiosity. (100-200 words)"

"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? (200-250 words)"

You have 250 words total to answer two of the four questions below — allocate the words however you like, and stick to the Caltech Honor Code.

1. "What is an interest or hobby you do for fun, and why does it bring you joy?"
2. "If you could teach a class on any topic or concept, what would it be and why?"
3. "What is a core piece of your identity or being that shapes how you view and/or interact with the world?"
4. "What is a concept that blew your mind or baffled you when you first encountered it?"

"Have you had any extenuating circumstances (such as limited course selection, inconsistent grades, or disruptions), that have affected your coursework, but that are not described elsewhere in your application? If so, tell us about them here. (150 words)"