I’m an international rising senior who is considering applying for either Rice or Rochester. Generally, I liked the university RiceU much more than URoch in terms of academic system, research opportunities, and student body. However, in physics programs rankings, URoch came always before Rice. So as a student who wants to study physics what do you think is going to be better?
I would not put too much emphasize on minor differences in rankings. Those change all the time. I would focus more on which you think it a good fit for you personally.
You’ve most likely accessed graduate department rankings, which can serve as a counterproductive resource for the selection of an undergraduate program. Note, for example, that the American Physical Society distributes its Apker Awards (the highest recognition in the U.S. for undergraduate research in physics) evenly across Ph.D. and non-Ph.D. granting institutions: https://www.aps.org/publications/apsnews/201808/apker.cfm. If you like Rice, apply to Rice.
Unless you are taking about picking one for ED, I don’t know why you have an or statement now.
Apply to both and see where you get in first. Neither place has guaranteed admissions. Once accepted, then take deeper looks at what research is available vs what interests you.
It’s not the case that Rochester always comes before Rice in physics research/grad rankings so I’d opt for Rice’s superior undergraduate education if choosing between these two schools. There are plenty of schools that do have better physics departments than Rice, Rochester just doesn’t happen to be one of them.
With respect to information oriented toward the selection of an undergraduate college, Rice appears in this U.S. News list pertaining to research opportunities:
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/undergrad-research-programs
I’m picking one for ED. I will apply for both for sure
It’s difficult choice. I’m choosing one for the ED, and I should also consider the much higher chance to get accepted in Rochester than in Rice. In terms of what fits me best, I’d say absolutely Rice
I see no reason to doubt what you feel drawn to. Both are good schools, so pick the one you like the best. You can do great at either. That part is up to you.
Take one more look at what the profs in each department specialize in (look on their individual web pages for each college) and assuming you like what you see, go ahead and apply. Then don’t look back. Enjoy the journey you get when acceptances (from whatever school) come in.
Do not ED to a school unless it is your first choice, is affordable, and you would be happy to attend if accepted even if you get no financial aid or merit. As an international student, you may face more hurdles as some schools are need aware for international students. The Rice Investment is not available for international students. https://financialaid.rice.edu/rice-investment-faqs
If that school is Rice, ED to Rice and RD to Rochester.
Rice is need aware for international students. https://financialaid.rice.edu/international-students