Troy,
NY
About RPI
As the first technological research university in the nation, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) has been at the forefront of scientific and technological advances since 1824. RPI alumni have been behind many key innovations that have changed the world, including the discovery of baking powder, the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, the development of sunscreen, the invention of the digital camera, and more.
With a focus on five signature areas of research, our students and faculty tackle the most pressing issues of our time. The Institute is made up of more than 30 research centers and key research platforms, such as the Shirley Ann Jackson, Ph.D. Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, dedicated to interdisciplinary biotechnology research the Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center, dedicated to the convergence of the arts, science, and technology and the Institute for Energy, the Built Environment, and Smart Systems (EBESS), dedicated to tackling climate change by decarbonizing urban environments at the systems level. RPI is also home to AiMOS, the most powerful supercomputer at a private university, which facilitates critical artificial intelligence research.
We offer more than 140 programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels across five schools, including the School of Architecture, the School of Engineering, the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, the Lally School of Management and the School of Science. Our accelerated degree program, ACCEL, gives students the option to earn a bachelor's degree in just three years or a bachelor's and master's degree in just four years, while still maintaining their financial aid and the key aspects of the college experience.
RPI is a community of talented and passionate individuals who work every day to change lives and advance society. Join us on our journey to change the world!
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is a private, nonprofit school in the suburb of Troy, New York. RPI was founded in 1824. The college enrolls around 6,947 students a year, including 5,614 undergrads.
RPI Acceptance Rate
It is very difficult to get into RPI. RPI admitted 57% of all applicants in 2022. In 2022, 16,661 students applied to RPI and 9,539 were admitted.
| Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Admissions Facts At-A-Glance | |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 57% |
| Early Decision Acceptance Rate | 70% |
| Early Action Acceptance Rate | 96% |
| Average GPA | 3.9 |
| Test Optional | Yes |
| Applicants Submitting ACT scores | 96% |
| Applicants Submitting SAT scores | 67% |
Click below to find out more about the admissions requirements and deadlines, student life, academics, majors and more.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Community Forums
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Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is locatedin the town of Troy, New York, in the city of Albany.
If you are interested in seeing RPI for yourself, plan a visit. The best way to reach campus is to take New York State Thruway to Troy, or book a flight to the nearest airport, Albany International.
You can also take a virtual campus tour to get a sense of what Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Troy are like without leaving home.
College Info
RPI Application Deadline
First-Year Applications are Due
Jan 15
Transfer Applications are Due
Jun 1
The deadline for Fall first-year applications to RPI is Jan 15.
The deadline for Fall transfer applications to RPI is Jun 1.
Check the school website for more information about deadlines for specific programs or special admissions programs
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is a member of the Coalition for College.
More than an application, the Coalition provides free tools and resources to help students through the college admissions process, beginning as early as 9th grade.
RPI SAT Scores
Composite SAT Range
1310 - 1460
Math SAT Range
680 - 780
Reading SAT Range
620 - 720
Estimated Chance of Acceptance by SAT Score
SAT Score
Estimated Chance
1460 and Above
1310 to 1460
1310 and Less
SAT Scores Needed to Get Accepted
The median SAT score for RPI students is 1393. Applicants with SAT scores of 1460 and above have a good chance of being admitted to RPI, while applicants with SAT scores between 1310 to 1460 have an average chance of admittance, and prospective students with an SAT score below 1310 have a low chance of being offered a spot at RPI.
RPI Tuition & Fees
Tuition & Fees
$79,434
In State$79,434
Out-of-StateStudent Life
Wondering what life at RPI is like? There are approximately 6,947 students enrolled at RPI, including 5,614 undergraduate students and 1,333 graduate students. 99% percent of students attend school full-time, 36% percent are from NY and 64% percent of students are from other states.
99%
Full Time1%
Part Time36%
In State64%
Out-of-StateData Source: IPEDs and Peterson's Databases © 2022 Peterson's LLC All rights reserved
Quick Facts
Total Enrollment
6,947
Campus Setting
Suburban
Acceptance Rate
57%
Tuition and Fees
In State
$60,074
Out-of-State
$60,074
Fall Freshmen
Application Deadline
Jan 15
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