Caltech applicants can now fulfill calculus, physics, and chemistry requirements through free online classes.
PASADENA, Calif.—Caltech Drops Admissions Requirement for STEM Students
In a groundbreaking move, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) has announced that it is eliminating its long-standing admissions requirement for calculus, chemistry, and physics courses. This decision comes as a response to the limited access many high school students have to these subjects.
Instead, Caltech will provide an alternative pathway for students who lack access to these courses. They will have the opportunity to participate in free select Science, Engineering, Technology, and Math (STEM) online courses, receive tutoring, and undergo a certification process through Khan Academy. This culminates in an assessment exam that can be used for admission consideration.
“Breaking Barriers for Talented STEM Students”
Jared R. Leadbetter, professor of environmental microbiology and chair of the first-year admissions committee, stated, “Our goal in admissions is to make barriers to access as low as possible for talented STEM students.”
The Caltech faculty acknowledges that not all students have access to the required STEM courses. The new policy aims to bridge this gap by providing an avenue for independent study of the relevant subject material.
Students who choose the Khan Academy program will need to complete an exam and achieve a score of 90 percent or higher to fulfill the Caltech course requirements. Additionally, Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate test scores can be used to meet the requirement.
According to federal data reported by the Los Angeles Times, only 65 percent of public high schools offered calculus classes in the 2017-18 school year. The availability of chemistry and physics courses was even more limited, with 88 percent and 74 percent of high schools offering them, respectively.
Caltech has also made changes to the short-essay questions in the application process. The new questions are designed to allow applicants to express how Caltech’s values resonate with them.
Furthermore, the revised application process now includes guidelines on the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in Caltech applications. The university emphasizes the responsible use of AI tools, such as ChatGPT or Bard, for brainstorming, grammar and spelling review, and research purposes. However, using AI to draft essay responses is considered unethical.
Caltech’s commitment to equity is evident in its efforts to ensure access to talent and make the university more inclusive.
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