Rice University’s academic schedule is a carefully crafted plan that ensures students can balance their academic commitments with other aspects of their lives. The schedule includes a variety of flexible options, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to their individual needs and preferences.
Academic Calendar
The academic calendar provides a framework for the school year, including the start and end dates of each semester, breaks, and holidays. The calendar is updated annually and can be found on the Rice University website.
Fall Semester
- Start: Late August
- End: Mid-December
Spring Semester
- Start: Mid-January
- End: Early May
Breaks and Holidays
- Labor Day (September)
- Thanksgiving (November)
- Winter Break (December)
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January)
- Spring Break (March)
- Easter (April)
- Memorial Day (May)
Course Load
Students typically take four courses per semester, with each course meeting twice per week for 75 minutes. The course load can vary depending on the major and year of study.
Registration
Registration for classes occurs online through the Rice Student Information System (RISIS). Students are encouraged to register early to ensure they get the courses they need.
Add/Drop Period
Students have two weeks at the beginning of each semester to add or drop courses without penalty. After the add/drop period, students can only change their schedules with the approval of their academic advisor.
Grading System
Rice University uses a letter grading system, with grades ranging from A to F. The grading scale is as follows:
| Grade | GPA Value |
|---|---|
| A | 4.0 |
| A- | 3.7 |
| B+ | 3.3 |
| B | 3.0 |
| B- | 2.7 |
| C+ | 2.3 |
| C | 2.0 |
| C- | 1.7 |
| D+ | 1.3 |
| D | 1.0 |
| F | 0.0 |
Academic Support
Rice University provides a wide range of academic support services to help students succeed in their studies. These services include:
- Tutoring
- Writing Center
- Math Center
- Learning Skills Center
- Counseling and Psychological Services
Time Management Strategies
Managing time effectively is crucial for success in college. Here are some time management strategies that Rice University students can use:
- Create a schedule and stick to it.
- Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable ones.
- Prioritize tasks based on importance and urgency.
- Take breaks when needed.
- Get enough sleep.
Tips for Success
In addition to following the academic schedule and using effective time management strategies, Rice University students can also benefit from the following tips for success:
- Attend class regularly.
- Take notes in class and review them regularly.
- Ask questions in class and during office hours.
- Study in a quiet place where you can focus.
- Form study groups with classmates.
- Get help from your professors and academic advisors when needed.
**Contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at (713) 348-5400.
The Office of Undergraduate Admissions can be contacted
by email at [email protected].
Or write to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions
6100 Main Street, MS-52
Houston, Texas 77005**