
University of Rhode Island
A beautiful campus near the ocean offers a welcoming community and countless options for creating your future.
Acceptance rate
72.2%
SAT (mid 50%)
1020–1280
Avg net price
$21,440
after aid
Testing
optional
2027 cycle
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and University of Rhode Island’s admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
Getting in is the hard part. University of Rhode Island admitted 72.2% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.
Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 1020–1280 on the SAT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.
The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what University of Rhode Island actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.
What they value
Challenge Your Vision, Discover Possibilities
At the University of Rhode Island, we’ll encourage you, inspire you, and challenge you to join us on a path of discovery to learn what fascinates you, to question assumptions, and to grow.
The University offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate academic degrees, certificates, and minors, including over 90 majors and 100 minors, with options for unique double majors, interdisciplinary minors, and world-renowned international programs.
- Undergraduate Degrees90+ majors, 100+ minors, Bachelor's
- Graduate DegreesMaster's, Ph.D., Certificates, 5-year programs
- Marine ScienceOceanography, Environmental Sciences
Verified from web.uri.edu and uri.edu and web.uri.edu and uri.edu and uri.edu and uri.edu and uri.edu.
The essays
Supplemental essay prompts
The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.
What theme would you pick for your Colloquium? To guide you through your statement, consider answering the following questions within your writing: Why does this theme matter to you personally? Why would this topic grab the attention of other high schoolers and URI students? What makes this theme super relevant to what's happening in the world today?
Up to 250 words
Every prompt, with how to approach each →
Verified from https://web.uri.edu.
Cost and aid
What you will actually pay
The sticker price is about $34,321, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $21,440.
There are many ways to make your education affordable, and the university helps you learn what you need to know.
Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $69,743.
Verified from https://web.uri.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.
Campus life
The feel of the place
“Go to the beach, meet new people, and make URI your own, a Tuesday here is about exploration and connection.”
You can explore the campus, go to the beach, or work out at the Anna Fascitelli Fitness and Wellness Center.
Quick answers
University of Rhode Island FAQ
- Is University of Rhode Island test-optional?
- For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at University of Rhode Island is optional.
- How hard is it to get into University of Rhode Island?
- Very hard. University of Rhode Island admits 72.2% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1020 to 1280 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
- How much does University of Rhode Island cost?
- The list price is about $34,321, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $21,440.
- Is University of Rhode Island worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $69,743 ten years after enrolling, and 72% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.
Launching soon
Ask Spike anything about University of Rhode Island.
Spike answers from University of Rhode Island’s own site, then helps you figure out your move. Join the waitlist to get in early.
One email when Spike opens. No card, no account. About the waitlist.