Rice University
The Vibe Check
Rice University offers a collaborative and intellectually vibrant atmosphere nestled on a beautiful, tree-lined campus in the heart of Houston. Students describe a culture of intense academic curiosity balanced by a uniquely supportive and friendly community spirit, often centered around the residential college system.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Houston
Students enjoy vibrant Houston life, exploring world-class museums, diverse culinary scenes, and major sports events just minutes from campus. The city's massive scale offers endless options, from hiking in nearby parks to experiencing the energy of the nation's fourth-largest city.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($89,718):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Rice's campus is a secure, enclosed 290-acre oasis with its own police department and comprehensive security protocols. While located in an urban setting, the university is situated in the Museum District, a generally safe and culturally rich neighborhood of Houston.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ High graduation and retention rates indicate strong student satisfaction and support.
- ✓ Generous financial aid meets 100% of demonstrated need, making it affordable for many.
- ✓ Prime location in Houston provides immense internship and cultural opportunities.
- ✓ The residential college system creates an instant, tight-knit community.
Cons
- ✗ Extremely competitive admissions process with a sub-8% acceptance rate.
- ✗ The intense academic environment can be highly demanding and stressful.
- ✗ Houston's urban sprawl requires transportation to fully explore beyond campus.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Rice University is nationally renowned for its top-tier programs in engineering, particularly space science and bioengineering, as well as its strengths in computer science, biology, and architecture. It is also famous for its unique residential college system, which fosters a close-knit community, and its significant research contributions.
Yes, Rice is one of the most selective universities in the United States, with an acceptance rate of just 7.88%. Successful applicants typically possess outstanding academic records, high standardized test scores (average SAT of 1553), and compelling extracurricular achievements that demonstrate a unique passion and fit for the university.
Campus life at Rice is defined by its 11 residential colleges, which serve as students' homes and social hubs, fostering a strong sense of community and tradition. Students are known for being both intellectually driven and collaborative, with a vibrant social scene that includes college-specific events, numerous student organizations, and the vibrant city of Houston as a backdrop.
Absolutely. Despite the high sticker price, Rice's value is exceptional due to its generous financial aid that reduces the average net price significantly. The 10-year median earnings of $89,718 for graduates, combined with the prestige of the degree and strong career outcomes, demonstrate a powerful return on investment.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1912
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 4,712
- In-State Tuition $58,128
- Zip Code 77005
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a high average starting salary of nearly $90,000 and a remarkably low average net price of $12,640, Rice offers an exceptional return on investment. The university's generous financial aid policy makes this elite education accessible, significantly reducing the burden of the high sticker price for most students.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.