Rice admissions
Rice Acceptance Rate: 8.7%
Everything you need to know about getting into Rice University — acceptance rate, test scores, GPA benchmarks, and what admissions officers actually value.
Accepts fewer than 1 in 10 applicants. Strong academics alone are not enough. With an acceptance rate of 8.7%, Rice University is among the most competitive schools to apply to. For the Class of 2026, this means you need more than strong numbers — your whole application matters.
What it takes to get into Rice
Based on Common Data Set (CDS) reporting, here is how Rice weights each admissions factor:
Key takeaways for applicants
Academics are the foundation. Aim for a GPA at or above 4.12 and SAT scores in the 1490–1570 range. Take the most rigorous courses available to you.
Essays are critical. Rice rates application essays as “Very Important.” Your personal statement and supplemental essays are a key differentiator.
Test policy: Rice is test-optional. You may submit SAT/ACT scores if they strengthen your application.
Frequently asked questions
What is the acceptance rate at Rice University?
The acceptance rate at Rice University is approximately 8.7% for the Class of 2026. This means roughly 11 students apply for every admitted student.
What SAT score do I need for Rice?
The middle 50% SAT range at Rice University is 1490–1570. Scoring within or above this range positions you competitively, though admissions are holistic.
What GPA do I need for Rice?
The average unweighted GPA of admitted students at Rice University is 4.12. Course rigor matters as much as the GPA number itself — admissions officers want to see the most challenging curriculum available to you.
Is Rice hard to get into?
With a 8.7% acceptance rate, Rice University is extremely selective. Beyond strong numbers, you need compelling essays, meaningful extracurriculars, and strong recommendations.
More about Rice
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