In short
Rice University is a private research university in Houston, Texas, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees with a focus on interdisciplinary studies and research. It provides a supportive campus environment and a significant urban setting for student growth.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1912
- Students
- 7,643
- International students
- 2,000
- Acceptance rate
- 8%
- Tuition (intl)
- €52–58k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Houston, United States
Rice University is a private research university located in Houston, Texas, known for its strong academic programs and collaborative environment. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines, including engineering, natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and business. Rice emphasizes a holistic approach to education, encouraging students to engage in interdisciplinary studies and research from their early academic years. With a commitment to innovation and community engagement, Rice University prepares students to become leaders who can address complex global challenges.
Why study here
- Access to top-ranked programs in engineering, business, and sciences, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.
- Opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary research and work closely with faculty members, fostering intellectual growth and skill development.
- Located in Houston, a major urban center that serves as a living laboratory for various fields of study and offers diverse cultural experiences.
- A supportive and inclusive campus environment that values diversity and encourages a commitment to lifelong learning.
Student life
Rice University fosters a vibrant campus life with a strong emphasis on community and student well-being. The residential college system provides a unique social and academic environment, promoting camaraderie and leadership development. Students have access to a wide array of clubs, organizations, and cultural events, enriching their college experience. The university's location in Houston offers opportunities to explore diverse cultural attractions, entertainment, and professional internships.
Fees
InternationalInternational students pay the same tuition as domestic students: approximately USD 58,000-60,000 per year for undergraduate study, plus mandatory fees. Including housing, food, books, and personal expenses, the total annual cost of attendance is roughly USD 80,000. Rice is need-blind for domestic applicants and meets demonstrated need; international students may apply for limited need-based aid.
HomeDomestic undergraduate tuition is approximately USD 58,000-60,000 per year, with Rice meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted U.S. students through grants rather than loans.
LivingOn-campus room and board and personal expenses add roughly USD 16,000-20,000 per year. Most undergraduates live on campus within the residential college system.
The application fee is $85 for most graduate programs. However, application fee waiver periods are sometimes available.
Admissions
Statement of Purpose1-2 pages, single-spaced, detailing interests, motivations, academic/professional experiences, and future goals.
Professional Resume/CVRequired for most graduate programs.
Letters of RecommendationThree letters, preferably from professors, academic advisors, or employers who can speak to quantitative abilities, ambition, and leadership skills.
Official TranscriptsRequired from all colleges and universities attended. Unofficial transcripts may be submitted initially, but official ones are needed upon acceptance.
GPAMinimum 3.0 GPA required for some graduate programs (e.g., Master of Global Affairs).
GRE ScoresRecommended for some programs (e.g., Master of Global Affairs), but not required for all. Economics PhD program requires GRE scores and does not waive them. Rice GRE code: 6609.
TOEFL (Paper-based)600 (minimum for some programs)
TOEFL (Computer-based)90 (minimum for some programs)
IELTS7 (minimum for some programs)
Rankings
Princeton Review#3 Best MBA Program in Finance
Max Planck Society of Germany 2014#1 in Materials Science and Chemistry
US News & World Report 2025#20 Best Undergraduate Engineering Program
US News & World Report 202413 Graduate Programs in Top 30
QS World University Rankings#119
University scholarships
Academic Cross Training Fellowship (Templeton Foundation)$220,000
Rice Need-Based Financial AidMeets demonstrated financial need
Accreditation
The Rice School of Architecture’s Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) professional degree is fully accredited by the National Architecture Accrediting Board (NAAB), qualifying graduates to sit for the professional licensing exam. M.Arch. programs are STEM designated, making international students from those programs eligible to apply for a three-year F-1 visa extension after graduation. Rice University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionRice University · United States
Accounting Ph.D.
The Accounting Ph.D. program at Rice University is designed to train students for high-quality research and to become influential scholars in top academic institutions. The program focuses on developing essential skills in theory, research methods, and contemporary accounting issues. It leverages the broader strengths of Rice University in related fields like finance, economics, and statistics, providing a rigorous academic environment. Students will engage with world-class faculty who possess expertise in various accounting topics and a vibrant research culture. The curriculum includes advanced courses in economics, statistics, econometrics, and finance, alongside specialized accounting research seminars. The program emphasizes a close mentorship approach within the Rice tradition, ensuring personalized attention and guidance for each doctoral candidate. The goal is to equip students with the analytical and empirical skills needed to contribute significantly to accounting research and academia. The program offers a highly competitive financial package, making it an attractive option for aspiring researchers in the field of accounting.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
Rice University · United States
BioSciences Graduate Program
The BioSciences graduate program at Rice University offers research-based PhDs designed to provide rigorous training tailored to each student's scientific background and interests. The program emphasizes building a strong academic foundation alongside critical thinking and independence, preparing students for research careers. Students can gain experience in undergraduate teaching and mentoring in addition to their research training. Rice University employs a holistic, team-based approach to application review, seeking talented students from diverse backgrounds who will contribute unique perspectives to the campus community.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
Rice University · United States
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
The Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Rice University offers undergraduate and graduate programs designed to provide a strong foundation in scientific and technical principles. The undergraduate curriculum covers core chemical engineering concepts such as process fundamentals, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, thermodynamics, kinetics, reactor design, and process control. Students can tailor their studies by choosing electives in areas like biomolecular engineering, computational engineering, materials/nanotechnology, and energy/sustainability. The department also offers pathways to a Master of Chemical Engineering (MChE) degree. Graduate programs leading to MS and PhD degrees involve advanced coursework and original research culminating in a thesis, with research opportunities spanning diverse fields from catalysis and nanotechnology to biosystems engineering and sustainability.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Rice University · United States
Computer Science Graduate Programs
Rice University's Computer Science Department offers rigorous doctoral and master's degree programs designed to bridge theory and practice. These programs integrate recent research findings into the curriculum, preparing students for lifelong learning and professional development in the field. The department attracts top students globally and provides opportunities to conduct hands-on research with leading scientists. The faculty includes distinguished members of national academies and recipients of prestigious awards, with diverse research interests spanning algorithms, artificial intelligence, computer engineering, systems, programming languages, and software engineering. Graduate students benefit from this environment, engaging with faculty who are at the forefront of their disciplines.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Rice University · United States
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Chemical Engineering
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Chemical Engineering at Rice University is a research-intensive program designed to prepare students for advanced careers in academia or industry. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in chemical engineering fundamentals, including applied mathematics, kinetics and reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and transport phenomena. Students will engage in independent research, contribute significantly to the field, and develop professional communication skills through both written and oral presentations. The PhD program requires a significant amount of advanced coursework and culminates in a publishable thesis and a defense of that research. This program builds upon core chemical engineering principles and allows students to delve into specialized areas through advanced coursework and research. Graduates are expected to be capable of conducting original research and making substantial contributions to the field of chemical and biomolecular engineering.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Rice University · United States
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computational Applied Mathematics and Operations Research
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computational Applied Mathematics and Operations Research is designed for students who want to pursue advanced research in applied mathematics. The program aims to provide a strong foundation in graduate-level computational and applied mathematics across various sub-fields. Graduates will be equipped to conduct original research, effectively communicate their findings, and contribute to the field. While students are not typically admitted directly for a Master of Arts (MA) degree, it can be earned along the way to the PhD. The program requires a total of 90 credit hours for the PhD, including coursework and research, and culminates in a dissertation and public oral examination.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
72 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What is the total annual cost of attendance for international students at Rice University?
+
The total annual cost of attendance for international students, including tuition, mandatory fees, housing, food, books, and personal expenses, is approximately USD 80,000.
Does Rice University offer financial aid for international students?
+
International students may apply for limited need-based aid. Rice University is need-blind for domestic applicants and meets demonstrated need.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Minimum scores typically include a TOEFL paper-based score of 600 or a computer-based score of 90, or an IELTS score of 7, though requirements can vary by program.
What is the application fee for graduate programs at Rice University?
+
The application fee for most graduate programs is $85, with occasional waiver periods available. Some specific programs, like the SSPB PhD, automatically waive the fee for all applicants.
What makes Rice's location in Houston beneficial for students?
+
Located in Houston, the fourth largest city in the U.S., Rice offers students a vibrant urban environment and a living laboratory for various fields of study. The diverse community and economic landscape provide numerous academic and professional opportunities.
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