California Institute of Technology

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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!

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.