2025 admissions data

University of Rhode Island Acceptance Rate

How Hard Is It to Get In?

A straight answer: 72.2% acceptance rate.

This means for every 100 applicants, only 72 actually get in. No guessing. University of Rhode Island is a UNIV institution located in Kingston, RI — competition varies by program, but this is the official average.

The University of Rhode Island could be an ideal match if you're seeking a balanced academic experience, particularly if you're interested in fields like engineering or oceanography, which have robust offerings here. Conversely, if you prioritize a campus known for a highly individualized academic experience or small class sizes, URI's 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio might not fully satisfy that need. At URI, you’ll find over 100 majors spread across nine colleges, but the breadth might come at the cost of depth in some specialized areas. As a public university, the lower in-state tuition is appealing, especially for Rhode Islanders, but out-of-state students should weigh the higher costs against potential financial aid options, as 99% of students receive some form of support. So, if you’re adaptable and looking for experiential learning opportunities, particularly in funded internships, URI might be worth considering; however, those who thrive in more secluded and personalized learning settings might find it less ideal.

Who Actually Gets In? (Men vs Women)

Quick breakdown so you get the real picture:

Men

70.2%

Acceptance Rate

Women

75.3%

Acceptance Rate

If you think one gender has an edge — the data tells what’s up.

Applications vs Admits: The Funnel That Matters

This is where the reality hits:

Applied

26,987

Admitted

19,475

🎓

Yield Rate: N/A

This shows how many admitted students choose University of Rhode Island. High yield = high confidence. Low yield = students had better options.

What Scores Do You Need?

If you're applying without knowing what scores to aim for… that’s how rejection letters happen.

SAT Score Range

Math500–630

Reading520–650

ACT Score Range

EnglishN/A

MathN/A

Aim for the 75th percentile if you want peace of mind.

What the University of Rhode Island Acceptance Rate Can — and Can’t — Tell You

Looking up the University of Rhode Island acceptance rate is a natural starting point for applicants trying to understand admissions competitiveness. The number is easy to find and easy to compare, but it’s often misunderstood.

An acceptance rate of 72.2% represents outcomes across thousands of applications, not individual chances. It combines students with strong academic preparation, borderline applicants, and exploratory submissions into one statistic, which limits how precisely it can be interpreted.

Why Acceptance Rates Vary Year to Year

Acceptance rates don’t just change because universities become more or less selective. They fluctuate based on how many students apply, how programs manage enrollment, and how applicants self-select.

At University of Rhode Island, shifts in applicant interest—especially in certain majors—can influence admissions outcomes. When demand increases in popular programs, competition intensifies even if the overall acceptance rate remains stable.

A Better Way to Think About Admissions Chances

Rather than using the acceptance rate at University of Rhode Island as a prediction tool, students should see it as a benchmark. It helps identify whether a school belongs in a reach, target, or safety category, but it doesn’t replace self-assessment.

Applicants who focus on academic fit, preparation, and realistic expectations often find that acceptance rate data makes more sense in hindsight than it does upfront.

Admissions Insight

One distinctive feature of the University of Rhode Island is its commitment to experiential learning, which significantly influences student success and future opportunities. With over 6,700 students engaged in experiential learning annually, URI offers extensive hands-on learning experiences that go beyond traditional classroom settings. From internships and co-ops to community service and research projects, students gain practical skills and real-world insights applicable in their fields. This approach not only enhances understanding of theoretical concepts but also builds a professional network before graduation. In fields like nursing or oceanography, where practical experience is invaluable, URI ensures that students can apply their knowledge and hone their skills in actual working environments. However, such opportunities often demand a considerable time commitment, potentially leading to a heavier workload. This balance of academic rigor and experiential learning can be a double-edged sword. While it empowers students with essential skills for their career paths, it can also create stress for those who may struggle to manage multiple commitments. Therefore, students must thoughtfully consider how this workload aligns with their personal strengths and career ambitions. If you can navigate the demands of both your coursework and hands-on experiences, you'll likely find URI’s balance of theory and practical application beneficial. Understanding how to manage time effectively will be crucial in maximizing your educational outcomes while also enjoying your college experience. If you're not prepared for the intensity of an actively engaged academic life, you might want to rethink your fit here. Essentially, URI’s approach to blending education with practical experience paves the way for graduates who are not only well-prepared academically but also equipped with the skills needed for success in competitive job markets.

Holistic Admissions? Or Score-Centric?

Some colleges love essays and activities. Some love high numbers.

Application Fee: $65

Fee Waiver Available: Yes

Application Portal: web.uri.edu/admission

Your Chances of Getting Into University of Rhode Island

Let’s keep it real:

✅ Great scores + strong extracurriculars → Solid chance
🔶 Good scores + average profile → Toss-up
❌ Below 25th percentile → You’re relying on miracles

If you’re international, competition goes up a notch. If you're applying to CS, Business, or Engineering → multiply difficulty by 2.

What's my real shot?

Acceptance Odds Estimator

Estimate your admission probability at University of Rhode Island based on your unique profile.

GPA

Test Score (SAT/ACT)

Extracurriculars

Pro Tip: Many more factors influence admission. For a deeper analysis that includes major, essays, and personal context — use Orbit's values-based matching.

Try Right Fit Matcher

Is University of Rhode Island a Reach, Target, or Safety School?

One of the most common reasons students research admissions data is to categorize schools. Where does University of Rhode Island belong on your list? Is it a reach, a realistic target, or a safer option?

There’s no universal answer. For some applicants, University of Rhode Island may represent a strong target where preparation aligns well with admissions expectations. For others—especially those applying to competitive programs—it may function more like a reach.

How to Think About Your Chances Holistically

Admissions outcomes depend on more than a single statistic. Academic rigor, consistency, course selection, and clarity of intent all influence how applications are reviewed. That’s why two students with similar GPAs can experience very different results.

Using admissions data effectively means pairing it with self-assessment. When students understand both their own profiles and how the university evaluates applicants, decisions become clearer and more grounded. In that sense, acceptance data isn’t about predicting outcomes—it’s about making smarter choices before applying.

Should You Apply to University of Rhode Island?

If 72.2% feels scary — that’s the point. High stakes → high payoff.

Will I be a standout here?
Do I like the vibe?
Can I afford it? (Check scholarship opportunities)
Is this my best-fit major here?

Explore University of Rhode Island

Jump to related stats for this same university.

Admissions Overview

Requirements, deadlines & funnel

ACT Scores

Percentiles, ranges, and what’s competitive

FAQs About University of Rhode Island Acceptance Rate

What is the acceptance rate at University of Rhode Island?

The acceptance rate at the University of Rhode Island varies each year; current data is not available. It's best to check their admissions website for the most recent statistics.

How much is in-state vs out-of-state tuition?

In-state tuition at the University of Rhode Island is $16,408, while out-of-state tuition is $35,804. Financial aid options can significantly impact overall costs.

What are the most popular majors at URI?

Some of the most popular majors at the University of Rhode Island include Engineering, Nursing, and Oceanography, reflecting the university's robust offerings in these fields.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio?

The student-to-faculty ratio at the University of Rhode Island is 17:1, which allows for a balanced academic environment where students can cultivate relationships with their professors.

Is URI test-optional for admissions?

The test policy at the University of Rhode Island is currently unknown. It's advisable to check directly with the admissions office for the latest updates on testing requirements.

Final Verdict: Don’t Play It Casual

University of Rhode Island isn’t a lottery — but it sure feels like one if you apply blind.

Know where you stand. Play strengths. Show why you belong.

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