I've been considering Rice for my top choice, but I'd like to learn more beyond just the basic stuff on their website. Anyone got a link to or insights from Rice's common data set?
Rice University is indeed a reputable institution in Houston, Texas, with a diverse range of programs and a supportive, close-knit community. Diving a bit deeper, let's discuss more details that might not be as readily available on their website:
Academically, Rice University is distinguished by its dedication to undergraduate teaching coupled with high-level research. The university boasts a 6:1 student to faculty ratio which ensures plenty of personal attention and opportunities for mentorship. It's strongest programs per various rankings indexes include Biosciences, Chemical Engineering, Physics, and Business, although it does have many other strong programs as well.
Rice commits to meeting 100% demonstrated need of its students and is one of the few schools in the country to offer need-blind admissions policies to domestic students, which means Rice does not consider an applicant’s ability to pay tuition in the admission process.
Moreover, Rice has the residential college system, which is largely self-governed and gives students a form of community within the larger university. The colleges host social events, set up academic support, and are generally a significant part of the Rice experience.
As for the school culture, Rice has a reputation as a school where nerdy, quirky students can thrive. It's got a vibrant campus culture and encourages "unconventional wisdom". The university’s annual Beer Bike race is a major highlight and is one example of how it promotes camaraderie and fun alongside intellectual curiosity.
As for admissions, Rice has gotten extremely competitive. As of recent data, the acceptance rate for regular decision applicants was just around 7%, but the school does have an Early Decision program. For the Class of 2028, the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students was 1510-1560.
About the university's Common Data Set: While we don't have permission to share a direct link, you can find Rice University's common data set by doing a quick online search of the term 'Rice University Common Data Set'. This is usually updated yearly and contains lots of useful statistical information that you might find useful.
I hope this deeper look into Rice University helps inform your decision!
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