I was wondering whether or not Rice University offers any merit consideration for ED applicants. Technically, there is no need to provide any from the university’s perspective, as all ED applicants will attend if they get in. However, it would still be a great thing if they did do it. Does anyone have any insight/experience to answer this?
Thanks!
I wouldn’t count on receiving a merit scholarship at Rice. Rice gives very little merit aid but does meet full financial need (as Rice calculates it). Rice also funds athletic scholarships.
Yeah, I know it’s rare to get merit from Rice, but I was asking if they even give any to ED applicants. On their website, it says 20% of accepted applicants get a scholarship offer, so I was wondering if this applies to ED as well.
ED students are considered for merit aid. However, you should be aware that Rice channels most of its “merit aid” to people who have compelling non-academic achievements or belong to under-represented groups. This can be good or bad depending on your point of view but you should definitely not count on merit aid simply because you have high test scores, National Merit, math/science awards, etc. Good luck!
Ah, thanks so much @ricegrad! Yeah I’d be super grateful if I could even get into Rice, but a man can dream LOL. Fingers crossed, and best to you too!
Is there a deadline for an application to be considered for merit at Rice for RD? Many schools require earlier submission of application (ahead of RD deadline) to be considered. I cannot find a similar requirement for Rice, but I would appreciate verification.
It is my understanding that all applicants are considered for merit scholarships. Rice does not have an earlier deadline or separate application process for merit as some other schools do. Merit Scholarships | Office of Financial Aid | Rice University
Yes that’s right, all domestic applicants applying for freshman admission are automatically considered for merit aid. Do keep in mind though that Rice’s “merit aid” is primarily used to reward nonacademic merit and bolster the number of URMs on campus.
What do you mean by nonacademic merit?
Nonacademic merit would mostly consist of community service or community leadership accomplishments, though achievements in non-scholastic areas like athletics or music could also qualify.