Freshman

You will be evaluated primarily on your academic record, including the required college preparatory units and class rank. Most accepted students rank in the top 50% of their class. In addition, the following factors will receive consideration: the College essay, recommendations, academic potential, school and community activities, and standardized test scores. All applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early admission (direct from junior year) may be available to students with superior academic records.

Traditional Freshman

Freshman Requirements

• 4 units of college preparatory English
• 2 units of the same foreign language
• 3 units of mathematics (algebra I, algebra II, and geometry)
• 2 units of social studies
• 2 units of laboratory science (biology and chemistry or physics)
• 1/2 unit in the arts
• 4 1/2 additional college preparatory units

Most accepted students rank in the upper 50 per-cent of their class. SAT or ACT scores required. GED with superior scores accepted in lieu of high school diploma.

Applying for Admission

Students interested in applying to Rhode Island College should submit:

1. Completed application form and nonrefundable $50 application fee
2. Official school records and recommendations
3. Results of SAT examination (ACT scores also accepted)

Deadlines

• December 15 for Presidential Scholarship consideration
• May 1

• November 15

Honors

The College Honors Program provides exceptional educational opportunities for academically superior students. Accelerated or intensive course work in very small classes permits greater student-teacher interaction and emphasizes individual research and creativity. A number of merit-based scholarships are awarded each year to selected honors students. Generally, to be considered for the freshman honors program, students must rank in the top 20 percent of their class, with a minimum combined SAT-I (verbal and mathematics) total of 1200. For more information, e-mail honors@ric.edu.

PEP (Preparatory Enrollment Program)

A limited number of recent graduates from Rhode Island high schools who have the ability and potential to succeed in college with appropriate academic support services, but who do not meet the College’s criteria for regular admission, may be selected to participate in the Preparatory Enrollment Program (PEP). Preference in selection is given to low-income students who are first-generation college students and to students with disabilities evidencing academic need.

The program consists of two academic phases intended to prepare participants fully for the college-level work they will face at Rhode Island College. The first phase begins in the spring prior to enrollment at the College. PEP students come to the campus one evening a week for six weeks to attend classes in study skills and to meet with their Student Support Services counselor. The second phase, which occurs during the summer, consists of seven weeks of intensive academic study. The students live on campus in College residence halls while taking classes in writing and mathematics, as well as one freshman-level course for college credit.

Class sizes are small, and individual and group tutoring sessions are frequent. Tutors live in the residence halls with the students, so that academic assistance is always nearby. College facilities, such as the library and computer laboratories, are completely open to PEP students. Upon successful completion of both the spring and summer components, PEP students enroll as freshmen and have full access to the College’s Student Support Services program.

The admission process involves a review of the student’s academic records, SAT-I scores and other standardized test scores (if appropriate), a statement written by the applicant, family/student financial information, and a guidance counselor recommendation. Some students selected for final consideration may be invited to participate in a personal interview.

Deadline

• Applications must be submitted by February 15.