Rice University Admissions 2026: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs

Yes. As per the official enrollment statistics, Rice University acceptance rate is just 8%, which makes it very difficult for students to get selected into the university. A low acceptance rate signifies that only a 8 students out of 100 students are accepted into the university. Students are suggested to apply as soon as possible to avoid last minute hassle. Students are suggested to approach admission process with utter dedication showing strengths and talents to get into Rice University.

Undergraduate applicants must have a good GPA score, high aptitude test scores (ACT or SAT) for securing admission at Rice University. For graduate courses, international applicants with a 3.0+ GPA does not require to submit a GRE score, however, candidates having a GPA of less than 2.9 must submit a GRE test score along with relevant work experience and letters of recommendation. Rice University accepts the following ELP tests and their corresponding scores for admissions:

Below are the admission requirements for Rice University Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs:

Undergraduate requirements:

• ACT and SAT scores: SAT and ACT for your overall score. However, if you have taken the test more than once, you are suggested to submit the highest scores on the SAT or ACT. Individuals require a decent score, however, this is optional and compulsory. 

• Transcripts of your high school: Transcripts include your information and performance in high school and other scores such as entrance exams.

• SOP: An SOP is essential for the application process for Rice University. It helps the applicant to convey their talents, Academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants.

• Portfolio (Audition depending on your chosen course):  This depends on the course the applicant is choosing (Architecture), as this is not present in every program. However, having a creative and unique portfolio will help you get into the Rice University. (click here to: Make your portfolio look better)

• LOR: Applicants must submit 3 LOR from school faculty and counsellors. 

• English requirements: The following table explains the minimum score for each English exam the university is accepting: 

Postgraduate requirements:

• LOR:  programs ask for a 3 LOR, and with particular exceptions, who should write those letters. 

• Statement of purpose (an SOP): An SOP is essential for the application process for Rice University. It helps the applicant to convey their talents, academic excellence accomplishments and personal background of applicants. 

• Transcripts and degrees: the applicant must provide the university with transcripts of their academics with degree certificates. Similarly, applying for PhD or doctoral program may require a master’s degree and transcripts from all graduate institutions of the applicant. 

• English Language Proficiency exams: The following table explains the minimum score of each English exam the university is accepting: 

• Entrance exam: Graduate school entrance exams are most common, but however, the programs might require different exams from the applicants. The applicants might need a GRE (Graduate Record examination ). GMAT, exam for certain courses. 

• Resume/CV:  The University might also ask you for a CV or a resume, depending on the course you choose for professional experience. 

Cost of attending Rice University can vary depending on main factors such as course level of study UG and PG and accommodation status. International students considering the university could be a little higher than compared to US citizens. UG program academic tuition fee for international students is around  - INR 41.8 L per annum depending on the course. It is - INR 50.6 L - 52.8 L for PG programs. 

International students must pay an application fee of USD 75 each for undergraduate and USD 85 for graduate programs. The application amount is non-refundable if the students don’t get selected. A few professional programs may have different application fees depending on the course type. For instance, the Rice full-time MBA program charges USD 150 as an application fee.

Rice University and UT Austin are some of the top ranked universities that have a unique campus cultures and many academic courses. There are differences between both institutions and the common point is their reputation.
The table below shows the comparison of both universities based on rankings, fees and acceptance rate. The students will find this information useful while choosing one of these. Overall, this information could be useful for students who are considering them.

Here is the comparison highlighting the differences between the Universities:

(The comparison of fees was between the BTech course for UG and the MS course for PG)