Rice University Admission: Requirements, Process & More

Rice University Admission Requirements 

Below are the Rice University admission requirements for first-year undergraduate applicants:

• First-year applicants include students who will complete high school by the end of the current academic year.
• Those enrolled in high school and college courses are still considered first-year candidates.
• Students taking a gap year between high school graduation and college enrollment are also classified as first-year applicants.
• A high school diploma or equivalent is mandatory for enrollment.

Domestic applicants must hold one of the following:

• U.S. citizenship
• Permanent Residency
• DACA status
• Undocumented status (residing in the U.S. for an extended period)
• Refugee/Asylee status

International applicants include:

• Foreign nationals applying from outside or within the U.S.
• Individuals with valid F-1, J-1, H-1, and H-4 visas or pending Permanent Residency status.

Rice University Application Requirements

Below are the general application requirements and criteria:

1. GPA Requirements

• Applicants should have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (B grade) or an equivalent, in line with Rice University GPA requirements for graduate admissions.

2. GRE & GMAT Scores

• Some departments require the GRE or GMAT for admission. 
• For 2025 admissions, Rice University does not generally require the GRE, but some programs may still recommend or mandate it. However, meeting Rice University GPA requirements remains an important part of the application process.

3. English Language Proficiency (For International Applicants)

• Applicants whose native language is not English must submit proof of proficiency. Rice University accepts the following test scores (minimum requirements):
  
  • TOEFL iBT/Home Edition: 90
  • IELTS Indicator: 7.0
  • Duolingo: 115

4. Other Admission Requirements

• Application Fee: $85 (waived for certain doctoral applicants in Texas and bordering states).
• Additional Documents:
  
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV (as required by specific programs).
• Each graduate department at Rice University has its specific requirements and deadlines. To ensure you meet the Rice University application deadline, it's essential to consult directly with your program of interest. 

For instance, the Professional Science Master's Program has a Fall application deadline of February 15, while the Computer Science Ph.D. program's deadline is January 1

5. How to Apply 

Applying for a graduate program at Rice University involves several steps. To ensure a smooth application process, follow these guidelines:

• Identify Your Program of Interest: Explore the list of graduate schools and departments at Rice University and submit an interest form to receive more information.
• Review Tuition and Financial Aid: Understand the cost of study and available funding options. Many doctoral students receive tuition waivers and stipends to support their education.
• Check Admission Statistics: Research Rice University admission data, including enrollment numbers and degrees awarded, to gauge competitiveness.
• Explore Research Opportunities: Learn more about the innovative research happening at Rice University and how it aligns with your academic and career goals.
• Get to Know Houston: As a graduate student, you will be living in Houston, so explore the city's lifestyle, cost of living, and professional opportunities.

Rice University Acceptance Rates

Rice University Admission remains highly competitive, with an Early Decision acceptance rate of 13.2% for the Class of 2029. According to Yvonne Romero, vice president for enrollment, Rice received a record-high 2,970 ED applications, a 3% increase from last year, as more students show interest despite concerns about Rice University student housing cost. 

Additionally, 100 students were admitted through the QuestBridge National College Match program, up from 77 the previous year. As applications continue to rise, the Rice University acceptance rate has declined from 15.3% to 15.2% in the past two ED cycles. 

Rice University Application Deadlines

Rice University accepts applications twice a year for Fall and Spring admission, providing flexibility for prospective students. The Rice University admission requirements include submitting a PSM application, which opens on October 30 and closes on February 15 for Fall admission.

For those applying for Spring, the application window runs from June 30 to October 15. Aspiring students should carefully review the Rice University application deadline and prepare their applications accordingly.

Rice University Accommodation Options

Rice University provides a welcoming and comfortable living experience with both on-campus residential colleges and off-campus Rice University housing options. Knowing housing availability can help you prepare in advance if you're planning for Rice University admission.

Undergraduate Housing

Living on campus at Rice University is more than just having a place to stay—it’s about becoming part of a close-knit community. With 11 residential colleges, students enjoy comfortable living spaces, common areas for studying and socializing, and diverse dining options. 

Graduate Housing

Rice University has friendly and comfortable graduate housing to assist students in settling into life in Houston. You can choose from student housing options like Rice University dorms, including Rice Graduate Apartments, Rice Village Apartments, or Rice Village Townhomes.

Off-Campus Housing Resources

Amber Student provides reliable off-campus housing near Rice University, offering students a variety of affordable options, including apartments, shared houses, and private studio rentals. 

With rental prices ranging from $800 to $1,500 per month, students can find alternatives to Rice University dorms that suit their budgets and lifestyles. Many accommodations come with essential utilities like electricity, water, and Wi-Fi included in the rent. To secure the best options and manage Rice University student housing cost effectively, it’s advisable to start searching 4–6 months before moving. Amber Student simplifies the process by providing verified listings, flexible rent options, and end-to-end support, ensuring a smooth transition to student life in Houston.

A successful Rice University admission is an exciting step toward your academic journey. Amber helps you find the perfect housing near Rice University. Whether you need on-campus or off-campus options, we make your transition smooth. Start your journey with confidence—find your ideal home with Amber today!