rit college essay requirements

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

RIT Requirements for Admission

What are RIT's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into RIT and build a strong application.

School location: Rochester, NY

This school is also known as: Rochester Institute of Technology

Admissions Rate: 71.1%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at RIT is 71.1% . For every 100 applicants, 71 are admitted.

This means the school is lightly selective . The school will have their expected requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores. If you meet their requirements, you're almost certain to get an offer of admission. But if you don't meet RIT's requirements, you'll be one of the unlucky few people who gets rejected.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

RIT GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 4

The average GPA at RIT is 4 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 4, RIT requires you to be at the top of your class . You'll need nearly straight A's in all your classes to compete with other applicants. Furthermore, you should be taking hard classes - AP or IB courses - to show that college-level academics is a breeze.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 4, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

RIT hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to RIT will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

RIT SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1352

The average SAT score composite at RIT is a 1352 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes RIT Moderately Competitive for SAT test scores.

RIT SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1290, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1440. In other words, a 1290 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1440 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

RIT has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, RIT will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and RIT forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1290, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

RIT ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, RIT likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 31

The average ACT score at RIT is 31. This score makes RIT Strongly Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 29, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 33.

Even though RIT likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 29 or below, you'll have a harder time getting in, unless you have something else impressive in your application.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 29 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

However, in our research, we found that RIT does in fact offer an ACT superscore policy . To quote their Admissions Office:

If an applicant takes the SAT or the ACT more than once, the highest score from each test section will be combined to determine a new total or composite score.

Superscoring is powerful to your testing strategy, and you need to make sure you plan your testing accordingly. Of all the scores that RIT receives, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all ACT test dates you submit .

For example, say you submit the following 4 test scores:

Even though the highest ACT composite you scored on any one test date was 20, RIT will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 20 to 32 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and RIT forms your Superscore, you can take the ACT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your ACT score is currently below a 29, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the ACT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the ACT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

RIT considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require or recommend it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is lightly selective, you have a great shot at getting in, as long as you don't fall well below average . Aim for a 1290 SAT or a 29 ACT or higher, and you'll almost certainly get an offer of admission. As long as you meet the rest of the application requirements below, you'll be a shoo-in.

But if you score below our recommended target score, you may be one of the very few unlucky people to get rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of RIT here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement Required for all freshmen
• Letters of Recommendation 1
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $65
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes portfolio of original artwork for Schools of Art, Design and Film and Animation; interview for BS/MS physician assistant program

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• Scores Due in Office February 1

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language
• Social Studies 3
• Electives 4

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes January 15 March 1
• Yes November 1 January 31
• Yes November 1 December 1

Admissions Office Information

• Address: One Lomb Memorial Drive Rochester, NY 14623
• Phone: (585) 475-2411
• Fax: (585) 475-7424

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in RIT, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to RIT.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than RIT. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for RIT, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for RIT, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If RIT is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2024 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

1920 SAT Score Standings

Here's how you compare to other students and how many colleges you are competitive for:

Out of the 1.67 million test-takers, 181974 scored the same or higher than you.

You can apply to 1213 colleges and have a good shot at getting admitted.

If you apply to these schools, with this score, you have a very low chance of getting in.

Top Choice Colleges Chances

We've collected data from millions of students and thousands of colleges to figure out your chances at getting admitted with a 1920 SAT score. You'll also see how your chances improve with a higher SAT score.

To add a school to your list, type in part of the school name, choose from the dropdown, and click the button.

• be competitive for 67 more schools in the country
• raise your chances of getting into target schools from 64.15% to 67.69%

Check Out a Different Score

Curious about what your profile is with a different score? Choose any score from the entire SAT score range to see what you'd be able to do!

If You Liked Our Advice...

Our experts have written hundreds of useful articles on improving your SAT score and getting into college. You'll definitely find something useful here.

Subscribe to our newsletter to get FREE strategies and guides sent to your email. Learn how to ace the SAT with exclusive tips and insights that we share with our private newsletter subscribers.

You should definitely follow us on social media . You'll get updates on our latest articles right on your feed. Follow us on all of our social networks:

Calculate for all schools

Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, rit admissions requirements.

Hey guys! I'm really interested in applying to the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), but I'm not sure what the specific requirements are for admission. Can anyone help break down what they're looking for in terms of GPA, test scores, and extracurricular activities? Thanks in advance!

Hello! It's great that you're considering applying to the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). Here's a breakdown of what RIT typically looks for in terms of GPA, test scores, and extracurricular activities:

1. GPA: RIT doesn't have a strict GPA cutoff, but the average unweighted high school GPA for admitted students is around 3.7. A competitive applicant will have a strong GPA in challenging courses (e.g., AP, IB, or dual enrollment), but RIT takes a holistic approach to admission, so other parts of your application can help make up for a less-than-stellar GPA.

2. Test Scores: For the 2024-2025 application cycle, RIT is test-optional, so you aren't required to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you do decide to submit your scores, the middle 50% of admitted students typically score between 1280-1430 on the SAT and 29-33 on the ACT. It's important to remember that since test scores are optional, a strong application without test scores can still result in an acceptance.

3. Extracurricular Activities: RIT values a well-rounded candidate with a variety of interests and activities. While there isn't a required number of extracurriculars, having a few activities that show your dedication, passion, and leadership will make your application stand out. It's better to focus on quality and depth of involvement rather than quantity. Ideally, you should have a mix of activities that align with your intended major, showcase your personality, and demonstrate your potential to make a positive impact both on campus and in your chosen field.

In addition to these factors, RIT also requires a personal essay, a letter of recommendation, and your high school transcript as part of the application. Additionally, if you're applying to a specific program, like the BFA in Film Production or the BS in Game Design and Development, you may need to submit a portfolio showcasing your work.

Good luck with your application, and I hope this helps you understand what RIT is looking for in its applicants!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Rochester Institute of Technology

Application management.

Undergraduate Admissions FAQs

No search results found for this entry

Visiting RIT

Is RIT hosting on campus tours?

We're welcoming families to campus for in-person campus tours, interviews/conversations, and information sessions. Learn all the ways you can experience RIT

What virtual visit opportunities are being offered?

We offer multiple opportunities to visit campus both virtually and in person. Learn more

Application Process

Are you still accepting applications for Spring 2025? Are merit scholarships and financial aid still available?

Applications for Spring 2025 will be reviewed on a space-available basis for first-year and transfer applicants.  Merit scholarships and financial aid are still available.

What is your SAT/ACT policy?

RIT adopted an SAT/ACT optional policy in May 2020. Students interested in being reviewed without SAT or ACT test scores should indicate this on the application for admission

How will you be treating “pass” grades and cancelled Regents Exams for applicants during the pandemic time period?

The Admissions Committee will be understanding of academic disruption caused by the pandemic.  Applicants will not be disadvantaged by “pass” grades on transcripts or cancelled Regents Exams.

How can I verify if you have received my admissions materials or check on the status of my application?

Log into your admissions portal (which you created when you applied for admission) to check on your status .

Is RIT's Early Decision Plan binding?

Yes, for more details please refer to our Friendly Early Decision policy .

Homeschooled Students

What academic coursework needs to be completed prior to applying?

Required academic coursework varies by your major of interest. Learn about What We Look For  and view academic preparation and requirements to make sure you have satisfied the expected academic coursework for admission consideration and contact us at [email protected] with any questions. 

What materials need to be provided with my admissions application?

Required documentation for admission consideration:

• An official homeschool transcript signed by your home school counselor/supervisor, including a detailed list of academic coursework and addendum with syllabi or course descriptions

In addition, please provide one or more of the following (all that are available):

• A transcript from a recognized homeschool clearing house program 
• A transcript from a traditional high school program you attended for part of your high school career
• Official high school equivalency results, such as GED, HiSET, or TASC
• Documentation from your local school district indicating the student has met or is making progress towards high school graduation
• An official college transcript 

Do I need to do anything else prior to enrolling?

Once you have confirmed your intent to enroll at RIT, all students, including home schooled students, must also provide proof of graduation or equivalency before the start of classes.  Those seeking and applying for financial aid must meet Ability-to-Benefit guidelines (click on “High School Diploma or Equivalent” section for additional details) in order to qualify for state and federal financial aid.

Honors Program

How do I apply or be considered for the Honors program?

Our holistic review process gives every application comprehensive consideration and Honors Program selection is included in this process. Approximately 1% of applicants are invited to the Honors Program, so the selection is extremely competitive.

• You are automatically considered just by completing an application for admission.
• There are no supplemental essays required for consideration.
• Only invited candidates will be notified of admission to the program.

How will I know if I have been admitted to the Honors program?

Only candidates who have been invited to the program will be notified.

• If you applied Early Decision I, you will be notified 2-3 weeks prior to January 15.
• If you applied Early Decision II, you will be notified 2-3 weeks prior to February 15.
• If you applied Early Action, you will be notified in late March.
• If you applied Regular Decision, you will be notified in late March.

How do I learn more about the Honors Program?

Visit the Honors Program website for detailed information about the program and feel free to contact [email protected] with questions about the selection process.

Enrolling at RIT

If I defer my admission for one year or one semester, can I keep my scholarship and financial aid offer?

If you will not be taking 4 or more college courses during your deferral (gap) year or semester, then your scholarship award will remain the same. A FAFSA submission is required again for need-based financial aid consideration, but if your financial situation remains similar, you can expect a similar financial aid offer next year.

If you are enrolling at another college for a year, this is not considered a deferral and you will need to be reconsidered for admission, scholarship and financial aid as a transfer student.

When do I register for classes?

In late-July, academic departments register students for fall term classes. You will be notified when your preliminary schedule is available to view in the  Student Information System (SIS)  with your RIT Account and password.  Please be aware that as official Advanced Placement (AP) scores, official college transcripts, and RIT placement test scores are received, schedules will be adjusted accordingly.  Review  Undergraduate Academic Advising FAQs  for more information.​

When should I complete my residence hall contract?

Students beginning in the spring semester should complete their residence hall contract no later than January 2nd.  For fall semester students, it is strongly recommended you complete your residence hall contract by May 1.  Additional details can be found on  MyLife .

Is there other documentation I need to complete as an incoming student to RIT?

You will need to complete student health forms and send us your final high school transcript over the summer.  Find complete information about next steps

How does the MPE (Math Placement Exam) work?

The math placement exam (MPE) is used to place BS (Bachelor of Science) students in the appropriate initial mathematics and or statistics course(s).  Spring enrollees will be contacted by your academic advisor.  For fall semester students, please find more MPE information here .

Is there a Writing Placement Exam?

You will be contacted by your academic advisor.  Find more information

How do I obtain an Enrollment Verification from RIT?

Enrollment Verifications are provided by the Registrar's Office.

Do I need to take the Language Placement Exam (LPE)?

Only students who took a modern language in high school and plan to continue studying the same language at RIT need to take the Language Placement Exam (LPE) .

Transfer and Test Credit (Including AP/IB/A Level)

Does RIT award credit for Advanced Placement (AP) classes?

RIT is pleased to review your AP coursework for possible transfer credit. In order to receive credit for the courses, official AP test scores must be submitted to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions from the College Board. An exam score of 3 or higher is necessary to be considered for credit. In many cases, however, a minimum score of 4 is required to obtain credit for specific college courses. Each department will determine the specific amount of credit to be awarded. View the AP Credit Policy

What about International Baccalaureate (IB) courses?

RIT recognizes IB level work. Credit may be awarded for higher level examinations completed with a score of 5 or higher. Credit is awarded on a course-by-course basis and in the context of the student’s intended program at RIT. Each department will determine the specific amount of credit to be awarded. Students are requested to forward IB transcripts to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. View the IB Credit Policy

How do I get credit for college classes I took while in high school?

Transfer credit will be considered for relevant coursework where a grade of C or better was earned at a regionally accredited college or university. Official transcripts must be submitted and will be reviewed on a course-by-course basis. RIT also reviews work performed in courses and training programs evaluated by the American Council on Education (e.g., CLEP , DANTES, etc.). Each department will determine the specific amount of credit to be awarded. A partial database of currently established transfer credit rules from various universities and colleges is available.

Does RIT award credit for A Level results?

A Level results are reviewed on an individual basis for RIT credit. Please email  [email protected]  if you would like to receive credit for A Level results.

College Courses

How will courses taken during the pandemic with a grade of “P” be treated in regards to transfer credit?

In consideration of the alternate grading options being offered at many institutions of higher education in response to the pandemic, RIT will award transfer credit for any coursework taken between Spring 2020-Summer 2021 that is graded with a C or higher, Pass, or Satisfactory (or it's equivalent) grade from other regionally accredited colleges or universities and specific armed services course work. RIT will award credit for all Pass and Satisfactory grades regardless of the external school's determination of equivalent letter grades.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

I've received my financial aid offer, but I still have concerns about affordability. Is there anything else I can do?

You are welcome to appeal your financial aid offer to see if RIT can offer additional funding. Contact the Office of Financial Aid to learn more about the appeal process.

Is there a possibility of a deferred payment or a payment plan?

RIT offers a payment plan where a semester bill can be spread out over a 4 month period. There is a $42 fee for this service and you can find more information from Student Financial Services .

Will I be eligible for merit scholarships if I request to be reviewed without test scores (test-optional)?

Yes. RIT will continue to review all students for merit scholarships regardless if they have submitted test scores.