How does Caltech assess international applicants (undergraduate)?

Colleges and Universities A-Z California Institute of Technology
1

In brief, I’m a UK student looking to apply to Caltech via the common application. I’m predicted A*'s and A’s and I’m hoping to fall in the 750-800 range of scores in my SAT’s. However there are a few things that I can’t find definite answers for:

-Interviews: I know in the US, interviewers have to be approached by students (that’s what I read on Harvard) but I can’t find anything on Caltech’s website about interviews… especially for international students. I’m guessing that there are at least one or two alumnae from C.I.T in the UK but I have no idea.

-GPA: So I know this causes a lot of confusion with international applicants. I am the top in every class that I am in… bar in one module of A Level Further Maths. However, just how would I tell the admissions committee this without sounded big headed and/or using an essay to convey it? I’m guessing to say I have a GPA of 4.0 would be near illegal given that, that could be a misleading figure.

Advanced Placements and Honors: Am I frowned upon for not having these?

Thanks for taking the time to read this if you’ve gotten this far :).

2

I was accepted for the Class of 2020 and will be attending in the fall. I can’t answer all of your questions because I was a domestic applicant, but Caltech doesn’t do interviews for admissions. I’m also pretty sure that they evaluate you based on what your school offers, so lack of APs shouldn’t be a problem if you have a rigorous schedule for whatever system your school uses.

3

Admissions officers are familiar with the different educational systems of different countries. They will evaluate you in light of what is typical for your country and what was available to you in your school. No worries!