Basic Facts on Financial Aid

There are three categories of financial assistance sources available to Rice students and families.  Need-based aid is available to United States citizens and documented permanent residents only and is calculated from a family's financial records. Merit-based aid is available to freshman applicants only and rewards exceptional talents within our applicant pool. Deferred payment plans are available to all families regardless of financial status.

You should become familiar with some of the financial aid terms used when discussing your application for financial aid and the types of assistance available. A common understanding of terms will help you clearly communicate with your financial aid officer after you have completed your application for assistance.