Hey, everyone knows that Caltech is academically strong in science and engineering, but, in terms of admission of highschoolers applying, how much does it matter on your application if you aren’t very strong in english and history. By strong I mean having A’s but not taking AP’s or honours. I read somewhere that Caltech wants “spikes” in their students, meaning that they want students that have a primary focus on math and science. So, what are your thoughts?
Hello - I’m a current Caltech senior. I believe that Caltech Admissions would be relatively fine with a student in such a position. Caltech does seem to care about students being able to communicate effectively and being somewhat well-rounded (which I think is why a certain number of humanities classes are required to get an undergraduate degree at Caltech), but I do not think they have stringent expectations for incoming students (as long as they are fairly able to express themselves).
If students do have extra interests in English/history/etc., I think that they would appreciate that. But it’s definitely not necessary.