The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), founded in 1877, is one of the world's preeminent colleges of art and design. RISD's rigorous studio-based education combines intensive making with liberal arts studies, fostering creative thinkers who address complex global challenges. The college offers 19 undergraduate majors, with particularly strong programs in illustration, industrial design, and architecture. RISD's campus in Providence's College Hill neighborhood features specialized facilities like the Nature Lab, Edna Lawrence Nature Lab, and the RISD Museum, which houses 100,000 works of art.
RISD's 'critical making' pedagogy encourages students to explore ideas through material practice and experimentation. The college's proximity to Brown University allows for cross-registration and dual degree programs. RISD's Wintersession provides unique opportunities for focused study outside traditional majors. Alumni include MacArthur 'genius' grant recipients, Oscar winners, and leaders in design fields who shape culture and commerce worldwide. RISD's blend of artistic excellence and intellectual inquiry prepares graduates to redefine creative practice.
Rhode Island School of Design Acceptance Rate
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is one of the most selective universities in the USA. With an acceptance rate of 13.81%, the institution utilizes a Holistic Review process to identify students with exceptional intellectual depth.
Admissions Guidelines
- Elite Standards: Admitted students typically rank in the top 2-5% of their high school class.
- Curriculum Rigor: AP, IB, or Honors courses are essential to validate academic readiness.
- Character & Impact: Beyond grades, leadership, research, and unique 'spikes' in extracurriculars drive decisions.
At this level of selectivity, meeting average GPA and test scores is considered the 'baseline.' Because RISD values intellectual curiosity, your supplemental essays and personal recommendations are critical in distinguishing your application from thousands of other high-achieving candidates.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Rhode Island School of Design Admission Requirements
RISD GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at RISD is 3.71. RISD is highly selective.
Mostly A’s with a few B’s will keep you competitive. Taking AP/IB courses related to your field will improve your chances.
If your GPA is between 3.41 and 3.71, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
RISD GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Highly selective; GPA is within the typical admitted range.
Recommended Strategy: Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT) in the top 5th percentile.
Admissions at RISD utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.71, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.71 – 4.00 | Competitive Reach | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.51 – 3.70 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.31 – 3.50 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.30 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At RISD, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Calculated via College Portal’s Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards.
Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. For the 2026 academic cycle, the landscape of standardized testing has shifted back toward Test-Required policies at the majority of highly selective and Ivy+ institutions. Following a multi-year "Test-Optional" pilot, data-driven results have led universities like Harvard, Yale, Brown, and the University of Texas at Austin to reinstate the SAT and ACT as mandatory components of the application.
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2025 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Rhode Island School of Design Average SAT Score: 1480
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Rhode Island School of Design is 1480 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it very Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do very well to score 1480 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1540 SAT or 33 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Rhode Island School of Design allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1370, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to RISD. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 735 | 690 | 780 |
| SAT Reading | 720 | 680 | 760 |
| SAT Composite | 1480 | 1370 | 1540 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1370 then you are below most of the admitted students at RISD and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1540 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1500
Can I get into Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) with a 1550 SAT?
With a 1550 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) are good but the admission staff at RISD tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at RISD is 32.
ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Rhode Island School of Design very Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do very well to score 32 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 29 | 26 | 32 |
| ACT English | 32 | 29 | 35 |
| ACT Composite | 32 | 30 | 33 |
Can I get into Rhode Island School of Design with a 33 ACT?
With a 33 ACT Score, your chances of admission at Rhode Island School of Design are good but the admission staff does not check your ACT Score only. The College Admission process tests your all-around personality and academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission.
View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 32.RISD Profile
Name: Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
City: Providence
State: Rhode Island
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 02903-2784
Campus: Main
Accredited by: New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
Elite Strategy: The 'Spike' Approach
To be successful at a world-class institution like RISD, you must move beyond being 'well-rounded' and demonstrate that you are institutionally necessary.
Elite schools favor 'pointy' students; those who are world-class in one niche. Achieve national-level recognition or produce original research rather than joining ten generic clubs.
Demonstrate 'self-driven learning.' This includes graduate-level coursework, mastering a complex skill independently, or attending top-tier summer programs (RSI/TASP).
Avoid safe, cliché topics. Use the supplemental essays to showcase creative risk-taking, quirky intellectualism, and authentic personality.
Admissions officers prioritize 'Founders' and 'Change-makers' over 'Office-holders.' Document quantifiable impact—what did you build that didn't exist before?
Does a degree from RISD Worth It?
Getting into RISD can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. RISD offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision. Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at RISD is USD: 80568.35 and unemployment rate is 3.14%.
How much does a degree from RISD Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at Rhode Island School of Design is USD: 78857. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Rhode Island School of Design is much less than this.
How can I get a scholarship?
14.04% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 28.56 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to RISD and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Rhode Island School of Design, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist RISD as your choice in the form.
How much a RISD Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 68140. An average RISD graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Rhode Island School of Design. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occidental College | Occidental College, CA | 1461 | 33 |
| Colorado College | Colorado College, CO | 1445 | 33 |
| George Washington University | George Washington University, DC | 1433 | 33 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus, GA | 1447 | 31 |
| Tulane University of Louisiana | Tulane University of Louisiana, LA | 1443 | 32 |
| Bates College | Bates College, ME | 1446 | 32 |
| University of Maryland-College Park | University of Maryland-College Park, MD | 1463 | 34 |
| Babson College | Babson College, MA | 1435 | 32 |
| Hillsdale College | Hillsdale College, MI | 1433 | 32 |
| Stevens Institute of Technology | Stevens Institute of Technology, NJ | 1447 | 33 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Rhode Island School of Design. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeastern University Oakland | Northeastern University Oakland, CA | 1472 | 32 |
| Scripps College | Scripps College, CA | 1480 | 33 |
| Grinnell College | Grinnell College, IA | 1486 | 33 |
| Boston University | Boston University, MA | 1473 | 33 |
| Brandeis University | Brandeis University, MA | 1473 | 33 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Rhode Island School of Design. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Claremont McKenna College | Claremont McKenna College, CA | 1514 | 34 |
| Harvey Mudd College | Harvey Mudd College, CA | 1537 | 35 |
| Pomona College | Pomona College, CA | 1520 | 34 |
| Wesleyan University | Wesleyan University, CT | 1513 | 34 |
| Yale University | Yale University, CT | 1534 | 34 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Apparel and Textiles
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Architecture
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Design and Applied Arts
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Interior Architecture
- Systems Science and Theory
- Woodworking
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island School of Design Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $68140 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
Question: What is the tuition fee?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is quite high, approximately $78857 or more per year for out-of-state students, so it is important to consider additional funding options.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are lower, 50% or less. It's important to apply early and showcase a strong academic profile.
Question: What is the acceptance rate?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Rhode Island School of Design is 13.81 which is low, typically between 10% and 20%. Admission is very competitive, and a strong academic profile is necessary.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.71. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission?
Answer: While there is no single 'cutoff' that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.41, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.41, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
Question: What are my chances with a 3.41 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.31 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
Question: Can I apply to Rhode Island School of Design if my GPA is below 3.31
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.71, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement
Answer: Admission to Rhode Island School of Design is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1480 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1370-1540
Question: Is it possible to transfer from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting Admissions?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by Rhode Island School of Design.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.