College Comparison
Princeton University vs Rice University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more — updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Princeton University
Princeton, NJ
School
Rice University
Houston, TX
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Princeton | Rice |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.5%wins | 7.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | 34–36 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,710 | $58,128wins |
| Avg Net Price | $10,555wins | $12,640 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $110,066wins | $89,718 |
| Graduation Rate | 97.1%wins | 95.7% |
| Retention Rate | 97.3% | 97.6%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 5:1wins | 6:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 5,579wins | 4,562 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Princeton edges out Rice on 6 of 8 measurable categories — including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Princeton Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 4.5%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $10,555
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $110,066
- ✓Graduation Rate: 97.1%
Rice Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,128
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.6%
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