Is Caltech generally harder to get into than USC?

Caltech is generally harder to get into than USC, particularly for applicants pursuing highly technical STEM fields. Its entering class is far smaller, and it looks for exceptional depth in advanced math, science, research, problem-solving, and intellectual curiosity. USC is also highly selective, but it enrolls a much larger and more academically varied class across fields such as business, film, arts, humanities, engineering, and science.

Caltech fits a student who wants an intensely science- and engineering-centered undergraduate experience and has already pursued demanding preparation beyond strong grades alone. Competitive applicants often show sustained engagement with quantitative work through advanced coursework, research, competitions, independent projects, or other serious exploration. Treat Caltech as an especially high-reach option even with outstanding STEM credentials; USC should also be approached as selective, with competitiveness varying somewhat by school or program.