Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester Institute of Technology has steadily improved in national rankings. It moved up from 105 to 91 in the U.S. News & World Report over three years. Globally, the university gained ground in the THE rankings, rising to the 601–800 band in 2025.

The rankings below compare year-wise performance across major national and global evaluations.

Different subjects perform at different levels in rankings. Now, examine which programs stand out at the Rochester Institute of Technology.

Subject-Wise Rankings 2024/2025

Rochester Institute of Technology shows strong subject performance in both creative and technical fields. According to THE rankings, Computer Science ranks in the 501–600 band, while Business and Economics fall between 601–800. This spread reflects the university’s broad academic focus and applied learning model.

The table below gives a closer view of how key disciplines are ranked internationally.

Want to know where the university stands on the subject of your choice? Check out Rochester Institute of Technology rankings to get a complete overview of global, national, and subject-wise rankings. 

With subject-wise and overall rankings in mind, let’s take a look at how to apply to Rochester Institute of Technology.

Rochester Institute of Technology follows a flexible admission calendar. For undergraduates, Early Decision I and Early Action both close by November 1, while Regular Decision deadlines extend to mid-January. Graduate programs accept applications year-round, making it easier to join during the fall, winter, and spring periods.

The intake plans below help you decide when and how to apply based on your academic path.

Want to know more about admissions? Explore Rochester Institute of Technology admissions to understand the eligibility criteria, dates, and deadlines. 

With your intake timeline set, it’s time to review what programs you can apply to. Let’s explore the courses offered at Rochester Institute of Technology

Each year, Rochester Institute of Technology welcomes a diverse student body, including 12,888 full-time degree-seeking undergraduates. The university sets clear expectations for academic readiness, language proficiency levels for English, and visa compliance. 

Start with the academic qualifications you’ll need for undergraduate or graduate admission.

Admission Requirements

To study at Rochester Institute of Technology, you must meet academic, language, and visa eligibility. Most graduate programs ask for a minimum GPA of 3.0, while undergraduates must hold a strong high school record. A good IELTS band score of 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 79 is expected. 

For standardized testing, SAT scores between 1280 and 1460 or ACT scores of 29 to 33 are typical for those who choose to submit them. Once admitted, you must apply for a student visa using your I‑20 form. 

Let’s begin with the academic qualifications needed to apply to Rochester Institute of Technology.

Academic Qualification

Rochester Institute of Technology sets different academic standards for undergraduate and graduate applicants. 

Most graduate programs, like MS in Computer Science,  require a minimum GPA of 3.0, along with a detailed statement of purpose and resume. Undergraduate programs focus mainly on transcripts and program-specific portfolios for creative majors.

The requirements below help you prepare the right academic documents for your application.

Note: The requirements listed above are overall. A specific program may have specific requirements. Please check the official website before applying. 

Language Proficiency

Rochester Institute of Technology accepts multiple English proficiency tests. A TOEFL iBT score of 79 or IELTS band score of 6.5 is the general expectation. You can also take the internal RIT English Language Exam, which may lead to additional coursework based on placement.

You’ll find the accepted tests and expected scores in the table below.

Note: The requirements listed above are overall. A specific program may have specific requirements. Please check the official website before applying. 

Competitive Exams

Rochester Institute of Technology does not require GRE Scores or GMAT scores for most graduate programs. However, undergraduate applicants submitting test scores typically fall within a strong SAT or ACT range. Submitting high scores may strengthen your application for selective programs.

The table below shows average scores accepted by the university.

Note: The requirements listed above are overall. A specific program may have specific requirements. Please check the official website before applying. 

Visa Requirements

After admission, you must complete U.S. student visa formalities to secure your study permit. Rochester Institute of Technology issues the I-20 or DS-2019 once you verify funds. The visa process includes SEVIS fee payment, consulate appointments, and proof of financial readiness.

The visa requirements listed below help you prepare for your student entry to the U.S.

Once you’ve gathered these documents and submitted your visa application, you’re ready to plan around important application deadlines.

Rochester Institute of Technology offers more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields. You’ll find strong offerings in STEM, business, health sciences, arts, design, and liberal studies. Whether you're targeting research, industry-specific skills, or creative development, the university maintains a hands-on, project-based teaching style.

You can choose your program based on your long-term goals and academic strengths.

• STEM Courses: Choose from top programs in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Robotics, Data Science, and Applied Mathematics. These courses feature co-op terms with companies like Microsoft and Lockheed Martin.
• Engineering Degrees: Includes Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Environmental, and Microelectronic Engineering. Many are ABET-accredited and offer access to dedicated research centers like the Kate Gleason College of Engineering labs.
• Business & Management: The Saunders College of Business offers BBA, MBA, and MS in Finance, Marketing Analytics, and Global Supply Chain. Programs are STEM-designated and include co-op or capstone consulting options.
• Art, Design, and Media: Home to one of the top design schools in the U.S., with programs in Industrial Design, Animation, Film, Illustration, and New Media Design. These include studio-based instruction and access to facilities like MAGIC Spell Studios.
• Health Sciences and Psychology: Includes Biomedical Sciences, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Nutrition, and Psychology. Many programs involve clinical placements and industry certifications.
• Liberal Arts and Humanities: Programs include International Studies, Philosophy, Criminal Justice, and Political Science. You’ll also find interdisciplinary majors that combine humanities with data or tech.
• Unique Interdisciplinary Degrees: Courses like Cyber Security, Human-Centered Computing, and Packaging Science combine engineering, design, and business in tailored formats not commonly found elsewhere.

Knowing your tuition obligations is just as important as selecting a program. You can now look at the program fees at Rochester Institute of Technology

When calculating the cost of studying in the USA, tuition is your largest expense. At Rochester Institute of Technology, full-time graduate students pay $59,102 (INR 50.5L) annually, while undergraduates pay $58,324 (INR 49.8L). Part-time and online options are also available, offering flexibility with per-credit pricing.

The breakdown below shows tuition across learning modes and program types.

Note: The INR conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

Tuition is only one part of your total expenses as an international student. You’ll now see how living costs affect the total cost of studying at Rochester Institute of Technology

When planning your budget, you must account for the full cost of living in the USA. At Rochester Institute of Technology, the estimated yearly cost of housing, meals, books, and healthcare comes to around $20,240 (INR 17.3L). These figures vary slightly depending on your lifestyle and housing choices.

The estimates below help you prepare for typical student expenses beyond tuition.

Note: The INR conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

Understanding living costs ensures your funding covers both tuition and daily needs. You can now review scholarships available at Rochester Institute of Technology in 2025.

Rochester Institute of Technology sets clear tuition rates for key programs in 2025. Graduate programs like the MBA and MS in CS or Mechanical Engineering cost $59,102 (INR 50.5L) per year. 

Undergraduate majors in Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science cost $58,324 (INR 49.8L) annually. These consistent fees reflect full-time enrollment rates.

The fee structure below helps you compare costs for popular programs.

Note: The INR conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

These numbers help you plan for both graduate and undergraduate funding. You can now review the total cost of studying at Rochester Institute of Technology in 2025.

Paying for your education becomes easier with the scholarships offered at Rochester Institute of Technology. The average need-based grant for first-year students stands at $41,332 (INR 35.35L), and nearly 78% of incoming undergraduates receive financial aid. 

These awards cover both merit and financial need, giving you a strong chance to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Below are the internal scholarships you can access as an RIT student.

Internal Scholarships

Rochester Institute of Technology offers several internal scholarships, many of which are renewable and can significantly reduce tuition. The RIT Merit-Based Scholarship provides up to $27,000 (INR 23.1L) per year automatically upon admission. 

Other awards like the GENIUS Olympiad Scholarship and RIT/FIRST Scholarship reward competition and activity-based participation.

The fully funded scholarships listed below give you multiple ways to lower your cost through academic or extracurricular achievement.

Once you explore these internal opportunities, you can now turn to external scholarships that offer added financial support

External Scholarships

External scholarships give you the chance to reduce your total cost, especially if you plan to study abroad through affiliated programs. 

Awards like the CIEE and IES Abroad scholarships offer up to $10,000 (INR 8.5L) based on merit, need, or specific academic focus such as engineering.

The fully-funded scholarships in the USA below show how you can fund study abroad opportunities beyond internal aid.

Note: The scholarships mentioned above are study abroad financial aid options available for international students only. 

After securing your funding, your next goal is to evaluate career outcomes. Now, review placement opportunities at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Student life at Rochester Institute of Technology blends academic focus with hands-on engagement across campus. With over 300 clubs and organizations, you’ll find groups that match your interests in science, art, politics, or gaming. These experiences also complement your academics, especially as you prepare for international internships during your program.

Here’s how the university keeps your life active, creative, and connected.

• Clubs & Student Organizations
  • 300+ clubs and recognized organizations spanning art, gaming, politics, music, science, theatre, cultural groups, academic societies, faith-based groups, Greek life, and more.
  • Club sports: Nearly 50 sports clubs, both competitive and recreational, ranging from Frisbee football to curling. 
  • Special interest housing: Five themed living communities like Engineering House, Arts House, and Computer Science House, fostering immersive experiences.
• Campus Events & Traditions
  • Imagine RIT: Innovation festival featuring student projects and performances, draws over 35,000 visitors.
  • Rochester Game Festival: Showcases video and tabletop games, with 1,300+ attendees.
  • Top-100 Bucket List: Includes must-do experiences like participating in field events or college-night outings at local cultural venues.
  • Regular Campus Life events: Cultural celebrations, mental health training (ASL-accessible), TigerFest mixers, and Rochester Pride Parade.
• Facilities & Recreation
  • Gordon Field House & Activities Center: Hosts intramurals, club sports, concerts, and major gatherings.
  • Park Point / College Town: Mixed-use complex next to campus—shops, dining, Simone Square hosts social events.
  • Student media hubs: WITR 89.7 FM (3,000 W station) and Reporter magazine keep campus voices alive.

Students who study in this setting later go on to do remarkable things in their careers. You can now get to know some of Rochester Institute of Technology’s most notable alumni.

Rochester Institute of Technology reports a strong career outcome rate of 93.4%, meaning most graduates find employment, pursue full-time study, or enter military and service roles soon after graduation. 

Each year, over 3,500 students join the co-op program, earning $17–24+ (INR 1.4K to 2K) per hour, while more than 8,000 participate in career fairs and employer sessions.

The key highlights below show how the university connects you with employers early and often.

• Career Services & Co-op Program Highlights
  • Career Connect platform (powered by Symplicity) posted nearly 60,000 co-op and full-time opportunities in the last year.
  • Students and alumni made about 4,145 appointments with career counselors last year. 
  • Over 8,000 attendees participated in university-wide career fairs
• Co-op Program Engagement
  • RIT’s co-op program is among the nation’s largest, with approximately 3,500 students participating annually across more than 2,000 companies
  • Average co-op wages range from $17/hour to $24+/hour (INR 1.4K to 2K), depending on major.
  • Before participating in a co-op, 1,589 students completed a preparatory course.
• Career Support Services
  • Services include career fairs, employer info sessions, workshops (e.g., mock interviews), and on-campus employment support.
  • Career advisors guide students on resume prep, networking, salary negotiation, finding part-time jobs and job search strategies.
  • Over 12,000 students engage in on-campus student employment annually.

Students use co-ops and career support as launchpads into top employers across industries. You’ll now see which companies regularly recruit from Rochester Institute of Technology.

Top Recruiters at Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester Institute of Technology graduates land roles in industries known for offering some of the highest-paying jobs in the world. Whether in engineering, tech, finance, or design, employers value RIT's hands-on learning model and strong work ethic. These companies often return each year to hire for both co-op and full-time positions.

You’ll get a sense of your future possibilities by looking at the recruiters below.

• Microsoft: Recruits software engineers, UI/UX designers, and data scientists, especially from computing and information sciences majors.
• Lockheed Martin: Hires mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineers for roles in defense, robotics, and avionics systems.
• Amazon: Offers both tech and business roles, including operations management, cloud computing, and data analytics.
• Tesla: Selects students from engineering and sustainability-related programs for roles in electric vehicle design and manufacturing.
• IBM: Provides placements in cybersecurity, AI systems, and software testing, often through co-ops before graduation.
• Apple: Focuses on user experience and hardware engineering, especially from RIT’s design and engineering schools.
• Deloitte: Recruits business analytics, accounting, and IT management students for consulting and tech advisory services.
• Wegmans Food Markets: A regional partner for business and supply chain management programs, offering both co-op and corporate roles.
• Paychex: Hires from RIT’s business and computer science departments for roles in finance tech and HR systems development.
• General Electric (GE): Places engineering and IT graduates into leadership training programs and digital manufacturing projects.

Now that you understand the placements and top recruiters, let’s take a look at the student life at RIT.

Rochester Institute of Technology has produced over 150,000 alumni worldwide, many of whom have shaped industries through innovation, leadership, and public service. From government officials to entrepreneurs and award-winning artists, RIT graduates continue to make their mark globally. 

You’ll see the range of impact RIT alumni have made across business, tech, sports, and the arts.

These alumni show what’s possible when technical skill meets long-term vision. Now, compare how RIT stacks up against two other top institutions in the U.S.

Rochester Institute of Technology is more than a tech-driven university. It has five campuses worldwide: New York, Dubai, Kosovo, Dubrovnik, and Zagreb. If you plan to study at one of the top universities in the USA for masters and bachelor's, you’ll spend much of your time in a campus that values both innovation and inclusion. 

Here’s what you’ll experience across the Rochester Institute of Technology campus environment.

• RIT New York Campus: 
  • “Brick City” & iconic art
    • The campus earned its nickname from the 15 million+ bricks used in its buildings, a warm, cohesive aesthetic.
    • Home to The Sentinel, a 73‑ft, 110‑ton steel sculpture by Albert Paley, America’s tallest campus sculpture.
  • Student media & tech clubs
    • WITR 89.7 FM is the student-run station with 3,000 W power, famous for “Reggae Sounds,” North America’s longest-running reggae radio show. 
    • K2GXT, the oldest on-campus club (since 1952), runs its own VHF/UHF amateur-radio repeater.
  • Major campus traditions & festivals
    • TigerFest, FallFest, FreezeFest, SpringFest, Imagine RIT, and Brick City Homecoming fill the calendar with concerts, ice skating, innovation showcases, charity runs, and guest speakers like Melissa Villaseñor and Hank Green
    • Imagine RIT draws ~35,000 visitors to explore student projects, games, robotics, art, design, all over campus.
  • Top-tier athletics venues
    • Gene Polisseni Center, a 4,300-seat multipurpose arena for Division I hockey and concerts.
    • The historic Frank Ritter Arena, now repurposed as temporary library space and soon to become an indoor turf field.
• RIT Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
  • One of the first to deliver full American-accredited degrees in the UAE, all accredited by UAE Ministry of Education and KHDA
  • The campus’ Innovation Centre, noted for avant-garde design, is considered among the “quirkiest college campus designs”
  • Hosts high-profile President’s Cup and Valedictorian awards in graduation ceremonies, with student delegates attending Rochester convocation
  • Shuttles and gender-segregated housing in Dubai Silicon Oasis support a diverse international student body of over 75 nationalities
• RIT Croatia (Zagreb) 
  • First Croatian private institution to issue dual U.S. and Croatian degrees in business, computing & design
  • Organizes Career Education Days, the nation’s first career fair, connecting students directly with employers
  • Requires 400–800 hours of professional experience before graduation, integrating internships deeply into all programs
  • Offers over €750,000 in annual scholarships & aid, enabling access for a diverse international student body
  • Powers 22+ Erasmus+ exchange partnerships across Europe, supporting semester-long academic mobility
• RIT Croatia (Dubrovnik)
  • Houses Incoming Global Scholars programs combining coursework with field learning in Adriatic ecosystems & cultural heritage
  • Integrates semester-long field excursions into hospitality, ecology, psychology programs for hands-on regional learning
  • Requires mandatory shared-apartment housing, fostering peer-led community and intercultural living skills
  • Includes a built-in copy center, library computer labs, and lounge spaces tied directly to academic programming
  • Recognized as a leading experiential education campus, 10 % of RIT Rochester study-abroad participants choose Dubrovnik annually
• RIT Kosovo (Prishtina)
  • Kosovo’s only institution awarding an American RIT degree, using same syllabi, standards, and faculty as Rochester
  • Offers live regional conflict and peace studies, featuring study tours to Albania, Bosnia, and Montenegro
  • Anchored in Prishtina’s Germia district, serving a fully international student body (~17 nationalities)
  • Provides experiential student clubs, sports, volunteer activities enriched by Kosovo’s vibrant youth culture
  • Alumni consistently go on postgraduate study or public-sector roles, advancing Kosovo’s democratic development .

The environment you live in directly shapes your learning experience. You can now turn to how the university ranks among national and international peers

Rochester Institute of Technology offers over 200 programs and maintains a strong placement rate of 94%, equal to Drexel and slightly above Illinois Tech. Its average graduate salary stands at $65,457 (INR 59.9L). 

RIT’s scholarship portfolio is extensive, featuring awards like the RIT Merit-Based Scholarship and the GENIUS Olympiad Scholarship, helping reduce the high tuition cost of $59,274 (INR 49.8L).

The comparison below helps you weigh each university’s strengths in academics, cost, career outcomes, and support.

Each university brings something different to the table, but RIT stands out for its strong co-op culture and broad academic range.