Rice Interview

I have an on campus interview at Rice over the summer and I’m a bit confused. Do I need to apply to Rice before I have an interview with them? Are admissions for fall 2020 open? I’m just wondering because people seem be getting interviews after applying, but mine would be before applying. Thanks.

Edit: Their website says “We offer on-campus interviews to rising seniors beginning in June before their senior year. Prospective students will meet with Rice Admission staff or current Rice seniors to discuss their accomplishments and learn more about studying at Rice.” If I understand correctly, it’s okay for me to have an interview before I apply. Please tell me if I’m wrong, as I don’t want my parents to drive to another state for nothing (plus it would be embarrassing).

Also, after I apply, should I request an off-campus interview (so it would be my second interview)? The website says it’s for those who have already applied.

Thanks again and sorry if I’m a bit paranoid!

You can interview before you submit your application. No, you do not need the second interview.

Thanks for the clarification!

There are a bunch of schools that offer on campus interviews before students officially apply. I think schools do that because they understand that some students are traveling a distance for visits and are unlikely to be able to come twice. My daughter did two the summer before she applied.

The common app doesn’t open until August 1st.

Thanks for the information!

As others have said you can interview before you submit your application. If you wait until late in the fall there may not be any on campus interview slots left. Interviewing especially during a campus visit is a great way to demonstrate interest in Rice. You are smart to schedule your appointment to interview now as the spaces during the summer fill up rapidly.

Thanks! I have a campus tour at 11 and the interview at 1. Very excited.

For rising seniors or their parents reading this thread, Rice recently posted on campus interview slots for June, July, August and the first part of September. https://riceadmission.rice.edu/portal/interview-oncampus Rice will likely add more on campus slots as the year progresses. These on campus interview spots fill quickly. Rice also sets up interviews with an applicant’s local alumni later in the year. Note on the Rice admissions website that there is a priority deadline for requesting an interview. https://admission.rice.edu/apply/freshman/interviews