Short answer: the middle 50% of first-year students who enrolled at Rice University scored about 1510 to 1570 on the SAT, with an average of 1553. That means a quarter of enrolled first-years scored 1510 or lower and a quarter scored 1570 or higher. These numbers come from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard.
Rice at a glance
SAT middle 50%: 1510 to 1570 | Average: 1553
Reading and Writing: 740 to 770 | Math: 770 to 800
ACT middle 50%: 34 to 35
Admission rate: 8%
Rice SAT scores by section
| Section | 25th percentile | 75th percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Writing | 740 | 770 |
| Math | 770 | 800 |
| Total (sum of sections) | 1510 | 1570 |
The total row adds the two section numbers, so treat it as a close estimate, not an exact percentile of total scores. For comparison, the average SAT score for the class of 2026 was 1045 (528 Reading and Writing, 517 Math), according to College Board.
Does Rice require the SAT?
Not required, but recommended. Rice says it does not require testing, but it recommends that first-year and transfer applicants submit SAT or ACT scores if they have them. Students without scores still get full consideration.
- One-way switch: if you apply without scores, you can add them later. But once you say you will submit scores, you cannot switch to test-optional.
- Superscoring: Rice uses your highest score in each section across all dates.
- No preference: if you send both the SAT and ACT, Rice uses whichever helps you more.
- Self-report: US high school students can self-report. Admitted students who enroll send official scores.
- Test deadlines: October SAT for Early Decision I, December SAT for Early Decision II and Regular Decision.
- SAT code: 6609.
What SAT score should you aim for?
Rice’s middle 50% is about 1510 to 1570. Because Rice recommends scores, sending one in that range is the expected path. At 1570 or higher, the score is a clear plus.
Be careful with the one-way rule. If you are unsure about your score, apply test-optional first and add the score later if it comes in at 1510 or above. Math at Rice runs 770 to 800, so a 770 is only the 25th percentile.
Where do you stand against Rice’s range?
Take a free full-length practice test and compare your section scores to 770 (Reading and Writing) and 800 (Math).
How to close the gap
- Find your weaker section by comparing each score to Rice’s 75th percentile above.
- Practice at the top difficulty level. Scores in this range come from getting the hardest questions right. Try these hard SAT math questions and this hard SAT English practice test.
- Drill your weak skills in Targeted Practice.
- Compare schools with similar ranges in the College Finder.
Frequently asked questions
What SAT score do you need for Rice?
There is no cutoff, but the middle 50% of enrolled first-year students scored about 1510 to 1570.
What is the average SAT score at Rice?
College Scorecard lists an average of 1553.
Does Rice require the SAT?
Not required, but Rice recommends sending SAT or ACT scores. Rice superscores, and once you choose to submit you cannot switch to test-optional.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard: Rice University (latest admissions data, accessed October 2026).
- Rice Admission, First-Year Domestic Applicants.
- Rice Admission, Frequently Asked Questions.
- College Board Newsroom, Class of 2026 SAT results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What SAT score do you need for Rice?
There is no cutoff, but the middle 50% of enrolled first-year students scored about 1510 to 1570.
What is the average SAT score at Rice?
College Scorecard lists an average of 1553.
Does Rice require the SAT?
Not required, but Rice recommends sending SAT or ACT scores. Rice superscores, and once you choose to submit you cannot switch to test-optional.