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What additional expenses should I budget for in my first year as an international student in Caltech's BSc program?

29 Sept 2026 · Answered by Vandna Rani · 1 min read
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Beyond tuition, first year additional expenses for Caltech's BSc program total around INR 14,34,779. This includes INR 9,63,763 for hostel and meals, INR 3,52,578 for insurance, and INR 1,18,438 for books and supplies. Budget for all three categories alongside your tuition fee before you plan your finances.

Vandna Rani
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Tuition is only part of what you will spend in your first year at Caltech, so it pays to know the additional costs upfront. Beyond your tuition and fees, you should plan for roughly INR 14,34,779 in extra first year expenses. Here is exactly where that amount goes.

Caltech BSc First Year Additional Expenses

Fee ComponentAmount
Hostel and MealsINR 9,63,763
InsuranceINR 3,52,578
Books and SuppliesINR 1,18,438
TotalINR 14,34,779

Putting This Alongside Your Tuition

Your first year tuition and fees for the BSc program come to INR 48,50,248, so once you add these additional expenses, your total first year outlay climbs meaningfully higher. Factor both figures together when you approach a bank or your family for funding.

My Advice

Hostel and meals form the biggest chunk of this additional cost, so research on campus versus off campus housing options early to see where you can realistically save. Keep a contingency fund on top of these numbers, since actual living costs can shift once you arrive.

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