Northwestern University vs Rice University
Northwestern University is the more selective of the two at 8%, versus 8% at Rice University. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.
Northwestern University vs Rice University: the differences that matter
How Northwestern University and Rice University stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.
Northwestern University and Rice University are almost equally selective (8% vs 8%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.
The two also read applications a little differently. Northwestern University leans more on application essay, recommendations, extracurricular activities, while Rice University puts more weight on class rank, standardized test scores. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.
On test scores, Northwestern University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1560 and Rice University's is around 1560. Their admitted ranges are nearly identical. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.
What each school weighs
Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.
Frequently asked questions
Is Northwestern University or Rice University harder to get into?
Northwestern University is harder to get into, with a 8% acceptance rate versus 8% at Rice University.
What's the difference in SAT scores between Northwestern University and Rice University?
Northwestern University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1560, and Rice University's is around 1560.
What are my chances at Northwestern University and Rice University?
That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.