Rice University Acceptance Rate 2025
Quick Answer
Rice University maintains one of the most selective acceptance rates in the United States at just 8% for the 2025 admissions cycle. With a total cost of attendance of approximately $64,144 annually and an average net price of $13,370 for students receiving aid, Rice combines exceptional academic rigor with strong financial support. Graduates earn a median of $89,718 ten years after enrollment, reflecting the institution’s reputation for producing successful professionals across multiple fields.
Preparing for test? Kaplan’s test prep has helped millions score higher.
Learn More →Acceptance Snapshot
Rice University’s acceptance rate of 8% places it among the most competitive universities in the nation. As of the data collected in April 2026, this ultra-selective admission rate reflects Rice’s position as a highly sought-after institution. The university’s low acceptance rate indicates that admitted students represent the top tier of applicants nationally, with exceptional academic credentials and distinctive personal qualities.
The 8% acceptance rate means that for every 100 applications received, only 8 students gain admission. This competitive landscape underscores the importance of a strong application, including rigorous coursework, compelling essays, and demonstrated interest in Rice’s unique residential college system and academic programs.
Year-over-year, Rice maintains consistently low acceptance rates, reflecting sustained demand from high-achieving students worldwide and the university’s commitment to maintaining its academic standards and institutional character.
SAT & ACT Scores
While specific 25th-75th percentile score ranges for the 2025 cycle were not available in the provided dataset, Rice University historically admits students with exceptional standardized test performance. Prospective applicants should verify current score ranges directly with the Office of Admission, as these figures are updated annually and provide crucial benchmarks for self-assessment during the application process.
Students interested in Rice should prioritize strong performance on both the SAT and ACT, as test scores remain a significant component of the holistic admissions review.
Get expert feedback on your university application essay
Learn More →Tuition & Costs
Rice University charges the same tuition rate for both in-state and out-of-state students: $64,144 per academic year. This unified pricing structure reflects Rice’s commitment to treating all students equitably regardless of residency.
The total cost of attendance of $64,144 annually includes tuition, fees, room, board, and other educational expenses. However, it’s important to note that this sticker price differs significantly from what most students actually pay, thanks to Rice’s generous financial aid program.
Financial Aid Overview
Rice University is committed to making education accessible through robust financial aid. The average net price for students receiving aid is $13,370 annually, which is substantially lower than the published sticker price of $64,144. This dramatic difference reflects Rice’s need-based financial aid program, which aims to eliminate financial barriers for admitted students.
The median student debt upon graduation stands at $11,000, indicating that many Rice graduates complete their degrees with manageable debt levels. This favorable financial outcome is made possible by Rice’s endowment-funded aid policies and commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students.
Students from families earning various income levels should apply without concern about affordability, as Rice’s aid policies are designed to ensure that admitted students from all socioeconomic backgrounds can afford to attend.
Graduation Rates
Rice University demonstrates exceptional student success with a completion rate of 95.19%, significantly exceeding the national average for four-year institutions. This high graduation rate reflects the quality of Rice’s academic programs, student support services, and the motivation of its highly selective student body.
The strong completion rate indicates that Rice students not only gain admission to a prestigious institution but also successfully navigate their academic programs and earn their degrees on time. This metric is particularly important for prospective students and families evaluating the likelihood of degree completion.
Post-Graduation Earnings
Rice University graduates achieve strong financial outcomes in their careers. The median earnings for alumni ten years after enrollment are $89,718, reflecting the value of a Rice degree in the job market across various industries and professions.
This figure demonstrates that Rice’s academic programs effectively prepare students for competitive, well-compensated positions in their chosen fields. Earnings vary by major and career path, with engineering, computer science, and business graduates typically earning among the highest salaries, while liberal arts and humanities graduates also achieve solid career outcomes.
Popular Majors
Rice University offers a diverse array of academic programs through its schools of engineering, architecture, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. The university’s residential college system encourages interdisciplinary exploration, allowing students to pursue double majors and minors across schools.
While specific enrollment data by major was not available in the provided dataset, Rice is particularly renowned for its engineering programs, computer science, chemistry, physics, economics, and business administration. Students should consult Rice’s official academic pages for current enrollment statistics by major and detailed program information.
Demographics
Rice University serves a student body of 4,776 students, creating an intimate learning environment at a research university. The specific demographic breakdown by race, ethnicity, and gender for the 2025 cohort was not included in the available dataset.
Prospective students interested in Rice’s campus diversity and demographic composition should consult the university’s official institutional research pages or contact the Office of Admission for current enrollment statistics by demographic category.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rice University’s acceptance rate for 2025?
Rice University’s acceptance rate is 8%, making it one of the most selective universities in the United States. This means that admitted students represent the top tier of applicants nationally in terms of academic achievement and personal qualities.
How much does Rice University cost?
Rice University charges $64,144 in annual tuition and fees for all students, regardless of state residency. However, the average net price for students receiving financial aid is $13,370 annually, reflecting Rice’s commitment to making education affordable through need-based aid.
What are typical SAT and ACT scores for admitted students?
While specific score ranges were not available in this dataset, Rice admits students with exceptional standardized test performance. Prospective applicants should contact Rice’s Office of Admission directly for current 25th-75th percentile score ranges, as these are updated annually.
How much financial aid does Rice provide?
Rice is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students. The average net price of $13,370 annually demonstrates the substantial aid provided, with the median student debt at graduation standing at just $11,000.
What is Rice’s graduation rate?
Rice University has a completion rate of 95.19%, significantly higher than the national average. This reflects the quality of Rice’s academic programs and the success of its students in earning degrees.
How much do Rice graduates earn after graduation?
The median earnings for Rice alumni ten years after enrollment are $89,718. Earnings vary by major and career field, with engineering and computer science graduates typically earning among the highest salaries.
How many students attend Rice University?
Rice University has a student body of 4,776 students, providing an intimate learning environment with close faculty-student interactions while maintaining the resources and research opportunities of a major research university.
Does Rice offer financial aid to international students?
While specific international aid policies were not detailed in the provided dataset, prospective international students should contact Rice’s Office of Admission directly to discuss financial aid eligibility and the application process.
Data Sources
The statistics and figures presented in this article are derived from the U.S. Department of Education’s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard, with data current as of April 2026. Acceptance rates, tuition figures, financial aid data, graduation rates, and post-graduation earnings reflect the most recently available institutional data.
Important Note: College admissions data and institutional policies change annually. Prospective students and families should verify all current figures, including acceptance rates, tuition costs, financial aid policies, and academic program offerings, directly with Rice University’s official website and Office of Admission before making application and enrollment decisions.