First-Year Student Admission

Students talking in small groups on the quad

Consistently recognized for its value, Rhode Island College is one of the Top 10 Best Regional Public Universities in New England, according to U.S. News & World Report, 2021.

See What it's Like to be a RIC Student!

Anchor for a Day promotional graphic - two students walking on RIC campus

Anchor for a Day in February

On February 16, 17, 18 or 19 – attend a RIC class, tour campus, have lunch in our dining center, and spend the night in a residence hall. If you are interested in becoming a first-year student at RIC, please join us! Families are encouraged to attend as well to see all that the institution has to offer.

Register Now

Hope Scholarship at Rhode Island College color logo

Hope Changes Everything

It's a four-year degree, two years tuition-free! The new Hope Scholarship at RIC provides students across Rhode Island access to a high-quality bachelor’s degree for less than $25,000.*

Hope Scholarship Details

computer

Apply Now!

Rhode Island College is an exclusive member of the Common Application. All students applying for undergraduate admission must complete the Common Application.

Take Some Next Steps

Students talking near sculpture

Visit Our Campus

We're convinced that if you experience RIC for yourself you'll be eager to join our community.

Students reading a book

Meet an Admissions Counselor Near You

Our team may soon be coming to a location near you. Plan to come and meet us at an upcoming spring college fair.

Our Simple Admissions Process

Application Requirements

  1. The submitted Common Application, including the $50 nonrefundable application fee. Complete the Common Application. Select "apply for first-year" if you are applying to RIC after graduating high school. Please Note: If you have previously attended another college or university, select "apply for transfer" and view our transfer admissions requirements.
  2. Your official high school transcript. Rhode Island College requires at least 18 college preparatory units including:
    • 4 units/years of English
    • 2 units/year of the same foreign language
    • 3 units/years of mathematics (Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry)
    • 2 units/years of history or social science
    • 2 units/years of laboratory science
    • 5 additional college preparatory units (additional coursework in any of the above subjects, or other college preparatory elective courses offered by your high school)

Homeschool Applicants

Homeschool applicants must adhere to the same admissions requirements as traditional students. There are several ways to represent the required coursework: 

  • Have an established working relationship with a homeschooling agency that supplies curriculum outlines and that reviews and grades work completed and submit a transcript for that agency.
  • Submit your home-schooling plans to the appropriate agencies in your state to receive approval to grant a high school diploma.
  • Supplement your home learning with college courses and courses certified by a private tutor/teacher to meet the 18 college preparatory unit requirements. 

Become Part of the Rhode Island College Community

14:1
Student to faculty ratio allows you to have a meaningful learning experience with faculty who take the time to know you. Average class size of 20 .
local_atm
RIC prides itself on being ranked the most affordable four-year college in the Northeast.
school
A strong foundation in general education with a broad array of majors that prepares you for the workplace, advanced study, career exploration and experiential learning.
Rhode Island College entrance

Office of Undergraduate Admissions

We provide prospective students with information and assistance on the application process, scholarships, financial aid, transfer credits, and more.