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Explore Rhode Island Colleges

Colleges in Rhode Island

Explore 12 colleges and universities in Rhode Island, including 2 public institutions and 10 private schools. Compare tuition costs, acceptance rates, and find your perfect fit.

12

Total Colleges

2

Public

10

Private

Rhode Island at a Glance

Avg Acceptance Rate

5895%

Average acceptance rate for Rhode Island colleges

Avg Net Price

$31,303.167

After financial aid

Avg In-State Tuition

$35,604.75

For public universities

Top Ranked School

#14

Brown University

Rhode Island Colleges Directory

Browse 12 colleges in Rhode Island, sorted by ranking and selectivity.

Brown University: BAS & Planon integration streamlines work order processes  | Planon
#2 Mathematics
Brown University

Providence, RIPrivate

5%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$80,124/yr

SAT RANGE

1510-1580

GRADUATION RATE

96%

"Ivy League pioneer of the Open Curriculum, where students declare concentrations instead of majors and skip mandatory core courses."

Martin Hall, Providence College, Providence Rhode Island. Formerly George M. Bradley House.
#69 Business
Providence College

Providence, RIPrivate

51%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$74,820/yr

SAT RANGE

1250-1390

GRADUATION RATE

87%

"Providence College is located in Providence, RI."

Office of Strategic Initiatives
#78 Communications
University of Rhode Island

Kingston, RIPublic

72%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$28,666/yr

SAT RANGE

1020-1280

GRADUATION RATE

73%

"Rhode Island's land-grant public university excels in oceanography and pharmacy amid Kingston's historic village charm."

George W Carr House, Providence RI
Rhode Island School of Design

Providence, RIPrivate

19%
Acceptance Rate
TOTAL COST

$73,061/yr

SAT RANGE

1396-1530

GRADUATION RATE

89%

"Rhode Island School of Design is located in Providence, RI."

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island Colleges

Rhode Island has 12 colleges and universities. This includes 2 public institutions and 10 private institutions. The state offers a diverse range of educational opportunities from community colleges to major research universities.

Brown University is the highest-ranked university in Rhode Island, ranked #14 nationally. The state is home to several prestigious institutions offering world-class education across various fields.

The average tuition at Rhode Island colleges varies by institution type. For public universities, the average in-state tuition is $35,605 per year. Out-of-state students pay an average of $38,439. After financial aid, the average net price is $31,303.

The average acceptance rate for colleges in Rhode Island is 59%. However, acceptance rates vary significantly by institution, with some highly selective universities accepting less than 10% of applicants while others maintain open enrollment policies.

To qualify for in-state tuition at Rhode Island public universities, you typically need to establish residency for at least 12 months before enrolling. Requirements usually include living in the state, having a Rhode Island driver's license, registering to vote in the state, and demonstrating intent to remain. Specific requirements vary by institution, so check with your chosen school's admissions office.

Rhode Island is located in the Northeast region of the United States. Home to the Ivy League and some of America's oldest universities, the Northeast offers a rich academic tradition with diverse urban and rural campuses.

Rhode Island offers a range of affordable college options. The average net price after financial aid is $31,303. Public universities in Rhode Island provide particularly strong value for in-state residents, with lower tuition rates and access to state financial aid programs.