Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Rice University vs University of Houston

Houston, TX · Houston, TX · Source: IPEDS federal database

Rice UniversityUniversity of Houston
Acceptance Rate7.9%69.5%
In-State Tuition$58,128$9,711
Out-of-State Tuition$58,128$22,191
Average Net Price$7,864$13,738
Graduation Rate96.0%65.0%

GradFax Analysis

Rice University accepts 7.9% of applicants. University of Houston accepts 69.5%. Rice University's tuition is $58,128. University of Houston's is $9,711. That's a $48,417 difference per year. Rice University graduates 96% of students in 6 years. University of Houston graduates 65%.

Bottom Line

University of Houston is public; Rice University is private. If you're an in-state student, University of Houston will cost significantly less. Check the net price numbers above before deciding.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Rice University profileUniversity of Houston profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Rice University or University of Houston?

Rice University. It accepts 7.9% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Rice University or University of Houston more affordable?

University of Houston has lower published tuition: $9,711 versus $58,128. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Rice University: 96% of students finish in 6 years. University of Houston is at 65%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Rice University vs University of Houston: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax