<p>Collegelalum is absolutely correct in saying that ethnicity should NOT be a factor in acceptance to Caltech. Caltech does NOT practice affirmative action, though MIT does. Caltech looks for excellence and drive, focus, and passion for science. It considers outside factors, such as musical talent, artistic ability, well-roundedness, and community activities, but they are not major factors in acceptance. If you look at MIT and Caltech’s percentage of URM’s, you can tell who selects students based on ethnicity. MIT has 21+ percentage of URMs, while Caltech has 6%. I find it refreshing to be at a school which recognizes a student for their excellence and proven ability, and which doesn’t take URM’s over other better-qualified students. There is still a great deal of diversity here, but NO one feels they were admitted because of an ethnic advantage.</p>