Rice University logo

Rice University

Houston, TX, USA · Ranking #23

Rice University is a prestigious private research university in Houston, Texas, known for excellence in science, engineering, business, and the humanities. Founded in 1912, Rice emphasizes interdisciplinary research, innovation, and close faculty-student collaboration. The campus features state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, cultural centers, and a tight-knit community with over 300 student organizations. Students benefit from rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, research opportunities, and access to internships with leading companies in technology, energy, and business sectors.

Rice University logo

Rice University

About the university

Rice University is a prestigious private research university in Houston, Texas, known for excellence in science, engineering, business, and the humanities. Founded in 1912, Rice emphasizes interdisciplinary research, innovation, and close faculty-student collaboration. The campus features state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, cultural centers, and a tight-knit community with over 300 student organizations. Students benefit from rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, research opportunities, and access to internships with leading companies in technology, energy, and business sectors.

Key information

  • Location: Houston, TX, USA
  • Ranking #23
  • QS #115
  • THE #124
  • US News #18
  • National ranking #16
  • Institution type: private

Popular faculties

  • Engineering
  • Natural Sciences
  • Business
  • Humanities
  • Social Sciences

Programs (29)

  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Marketing
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Law
  • Political Science
  • International Relations
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental Science
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology
  • Education
  • Fine Arts
  • Music

Student body

  • Total students: 8,000
  • Undergraduate: 4,500
  • Graduate: 3,500
  • International students: 29%

Campus life

Rice University provides a vibrant and close-knit campus community with over 300 student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. Students engage in collaborative research, clubs, arts, and volunteer projects. The university emphasizes innovation, leadership, and global engagement. Houston’s dynamic economy and proximity to leading industries offer students access to internships, professional networking, and career opportunities, enhancing both academic and social experience.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $900 - $1,800 / per month

Housing options

  • Residential colleges (11 colleges)
  • On-campus apartments (graduates)
  • Off-campus in Houston Museum District
  • Graduate student housing

Student clubs and organizations

  • Rice Thresher (newspaper)
  • Rice Engineering Student Council
  • Baker Institute Student Forum
  • Spontaneous Combustion (improv)
  • RPC (Rice Program Council)
  • Rice Owls Robotics
  • Pre-Med Society

Sports

  • Football
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Soccer
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field
  • Swimming
  • Volleyball
  • Cross Country
  • Golf

Career & internships

Employment rate: 94%

Partner companies

  • IBM
  • Microsoft
  • Google
  • Amazon
  • Deloitte
  • PwC
  • Raytheon

Internships: Rice University offers structured internships with top companies such as IBM, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Deloitte, PwC, and Raytheon. Students in engineering, natural sciences, business, humanities, and social sciences can participate in summer or part-time internships. Interns gain mentorship, practical project experience, and exposure to professional environments. Career Services provides guidance on resumes, interview preparation, and networking. Many internships lead to full-time employment.

Admission requirements

Required tests

  • SAT
  • ACT
  • TOEFL
  • IELTS
  • GRE

Required documents

  • Application Form
  • Academic Transcripts
  • GPA
  • Personal Statement
  • Letters Of Recommendation
  • Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT)
  • English Proficiency Test (TOEFL/IELTS)

Minimum GPA: 3.7

Tuition costs

  • $48,000 - $60,138 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 11.00%
  • Scholarships available: Rice University offers need- and merit-based financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. International students are eligible for merit scholarships and departmental awards. Graduate students can access fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships. Financial counseling and support services are available to assist students in managing expenses and focusing on academic and professional growth.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1912
  • Teaching languages: English, english
  • Study formats: offline

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