California Institute of Technology Ranked Top Small University in the World 2023
The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) has claimed the #1 spot in the Times Higher Education 2023 ranking of the best small universities worldwide.
Located in Pasadena, California, Caltech has under 3,000 students yet consistently punches above its weight in global rankings. This year, it achieved perfect scores for research, citations, and international outlook indicators.
Caltech stood out for its extremely strong research performance and high-impact scientific publications. Over 40% of its research output featured among the top 1% most cited globally, reflecting the pioneering work conducted there.
The university also attracts exceptional research funding, earning over $458 million in awards in 2022. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory managed by Caltech for NASA highlights its leadership in space research.
By focusing intensely on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Caltech cultivates excellence across its specialty areas. It performs cutting-edge research in fields like physics, astronomy, chemistry, biology, and computing.
The university is renowned for innovation and places great emphasis on translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world applications that benefit society. Over 250 companies have roots in Caltech research to date.
The curriculum rigorously prepares students to become next-generation researchers and leaders in STEM fields. Caltech has produced an astounding 38 Nobel laureates from its small but mighty cohort of elite students and faculty.
Earning the top global spot again validates Caltech’s reputation as a world-leading powerhouse in STEM education and research. Its consistent dominance demonstrates that intellectual strength comes not from size, but from uncompromising quality and commitment to academic excellence.
