Head-to-head · 2026
Rice University vs The University of Texas at Austin
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 7 wins for Rice University, 0 for The University of Texas at Austin — Rice University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Rice University | The University of Texas at Austin |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 16.78 ✓ | 9.46 |
| Avg net price | $13,370 ✓ | $19,857 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $89,718 ✓ | $75,121 |
| Acceptance rate | 8% ✓ | 26.6% |
| Graduation rate | 94.6% ✓ | 88.9% |
| Median debt | $11,000 ✓ | $20,500 |
| Enrollment | 4,776 | 42,855 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1553 ✓ | 1395 |
| Wins | 7 | 0 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
The University of Texas at Austin costs $6,487 more per year than Rice University ($19,857 vs $13,370). Rice University graduates report $14,597 higher median earnings after ten years ($89,718 vs $75,121). On EduGradify's model that puts Rice University ahead on projected ROI (16.78 vs 9.46, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Rice University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Rice University is highly competitive at 8% acceptance versus 26.6% (selective) at The University of Texas at Austin.
Frequently asked
Rice University vs The University of Texas at Austin, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Rice University or The University of Texas at Austin the better value?
Rice University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (16.78 vs 9.46), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Rice University is cheaper — average net price $13,370 per year vs $19,857 at The University of Texas at Austin. The annual difference of $6,487 adds up to about $25,948 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Rice University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $89,718 vs $75,121 at The University of Texas at Austin. The annual gap in the federal data is $14,597.
Which school is harder to get into?
Rice University is more selective at 8% acceptance vs 26.6% at The University of Texas at Austin.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Rice University reports a A+ value grade; The University of Texas at Austin reports B.