Early Decision

What are the next steps?

Join the Class of 2029 by submitting your non-refundable deposit and accepting your offer of admission by January 4 in your Rice applicant portal. You’ll receive more information about housing, your residential college assignment, orientation and other matriculation information over the summer.

Is the enrollment deposit refundable?

The enrollment deposit is due January 4 and is non-refundable.

Why was I not offered a merit scholarship? Can I appeal this decision?

Every applicant is considered for merit scholarships, and there is no appeal process for this decision. If you are concerned about the financial commitment of attending Rice, we encourage you to contact the Office of Financial Aid. You may schedule a one-on-one appointment with a Financial Aid counselor here.

Are you hosting events for admitted students?

We will be offering on-campus events as well as virtual sessions in April. Stay tuned for more information coming in March.

Can I visit campus?

We are currently offering student-led and self-guided tours. More information can be found here. We will also be offering on-campus admitted student programming in April.

When are the admission and financial aid offices open?

Our offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT. We would be happy to assist you in person or via email and phone.

Will I need to submit mid-year and final transcripts?

Yes, your school counselor is required to upload your mid-year and final high school transcripts once they are available. Details on supported transcript submission options can be found here.

What happens if my school is delayed in sending my mid-year and final transcripts?

Your school counselor may contact our office at riceapps@rice.edu if there are any challenges with submitting your mid-year and final transcripts.

Can I receive credit for my AP and IB Exams?

Rice awards credit for scores of 4 or 5 on most AP Exams and scores of 6 or 7 on IB higher level exams. Rice also grants credit for some international examinations. Please visit the Office of the Registrar's Exam Credit webpage for more information. If you wish to transfer college credit completed during high school, your coursework must meet several criteria per the Registrar's Transfer Credit webpage.

When is orientation?

Orientation Week (O-Week) will be held in mid-August. The O-Week experience will include your residential college move-in, an introduction to campus traditions and course registration. Click here to learn more.

Is it possible to change my major or academic division?

You may change your major or academic division if admitted, though this should be given thoughtful consideration beforehand. Enrolled students have until the spring semester of their sophomore year to declare a major. The exceptions to this rule are music and architecture. You must be admitted to the music or architecture schools either as an entering student or as a current Rice student who applies and is accepted for the major. Admission out of the Shepherd School of Music to a different division of study requires that you complete a minimum of one full year of study in the Shepherd School of Music before transferring out. Contact the Office of Academic Advising to learn more about changing your field of study.