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Rhode Island School of Design: Courses, Fees and Acceptance Rate
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Last updated on 18 Nov '24, by Nikita Peter (Study Abroad Expert)RISDWhat’s new?
The deadline for international students seeking admission to the Rhode Island School of Design is
- For graduate courses the application deadline is Jan 5, 2025.
- The Regular Decision application deadline for undergraduate students is Jan 16, 2025.
- About Rhode Island School of Design
- Popular Program
- Scholarships
- Admissions 2025
- Fees
- Placements
- Rankings 2025
- Rhode Island Vs Parson Vs Pratt Institute: Which is Better?
- Studying in USA
- Notable Alumni
- Rhode Island School of Design Campus Life
- RISD FAQs
About Rhode Island School of Design
Rhode Island School of Design is a private Art and Design School in Providence, Rhode Island. The school was founded in 1877 and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. As of 2024, the RISD is ranked 4 by subject according to a top-ranking publisher. RISD consists of approx. 2,090 undergraduate students with around 448 graduate students and 34% international students.
The infographic given below offers information about the Rhode Island School of Design:
Things to Know About Rhode Island School of Design
Some important things to know about the Rhode Island School of Design are listed below:
|
Particulars |
Validations |
|---|---|
|
Acceptance Rate |
19% |
|
Location |
Providence, Rhode Island |
|
Total No. of Students |
2500+ |
|
Public or Private University |
Private School |
|
Annual Tuition Cost |
|
|
Popular Programs |
|
Rhode Island School of Design History
Rhode Island School of Design was founded in 1877 in Providence, Rhode Island as both a school and museum. It was one of the first independent colleges of art and design. RISD was founded by a group of women way before the women in America gained the right to vote. The college emerged with the desire to support the state’s thriving textile and jewelry industries in particular with Freehand Drawing & Painting and Mechanical Drawing and Design eventually being introduced as the first courses offered at RISD. Claudius Buchanan Farnsworth was a member of the Rhode Island General Assembly and the first president of RISD’s board. He was responsible for bringing the school’s original application for incorporation before the state’s legislative body in 1877.
The RISD offers its students a campus with a RISD museum allowing them to explore 100,000 works of art and design and provide them with the opportunity to expand their creative practices and connect with the local communities along with a library of over 150,000+ art books, and periodicals. Students can opt for on-campus residence halls which provide them with a social, safe, and inclusive opportunity throughout the program. RISD also ensures the health and wellness of its students and also provides delicious and nutritious meal options to the students. With an acceptance rate of 19% admission to RISD college is moderately competitive. RISD offers excellent academics in both graduate and undergraduate programs. Some of the popular courses offered by RISD are BFA in Graphic Design, MFA in Graphic Design, BFA in Film and Animation, and many more.
Check out the below videos of Rhode Island School of Design for more Information:
Others
64%
Asian
22%
Hispanic
8%
Black
4%
Out of state
58%
Foreign
40%
In state
1%
24 and under
98%
25 and over
1%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
UG Enrollment
PG Enrollment
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Q: Is Rhode Island School of Design hard to get into?
According to US News and World Report 2024, the Rhode Island School of Design has an acceptance rate of 19%, which means out of every 100 applications only 19 are selected, which makes it highly competitive to get selected into the university
The university gives preference to students having higher grades or have exceptional academic or research experience. Hence, having higher grades increases your chance of getting selected at Rhode Island School of Design.
Here is the list of all the eligibility criteria to get into Rhode Island School of Design.
Q: What is Rhode Island School of Design famous for?
Rhode Island School of Design is a private, nonprofit university was established in 1877, in the city of Providence, Rhode Island. The university is known for its state of the art research facility and high quality education to the its students. the university enrolls students from all the states of USA and many countries in the world.
- Top Ranked University:
According to US News and World Report 2024, the Rhode Island School of Design is ranked among:
#4 in Regional Universities North,
#5 in Best Fine Arts Program,
According to QS World Universities Rankings 2024, the Rhode Island School of Design is ranked at #7 among World Universities Ranking by Subject.
- Variety of Courses: Rhode Island School of Design offers at undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across disciplines such as Fine arts, Architecture, Design, Animation, Graphic and Industrial Design.
- Highly distinguished and learned faculties: the faculty at Rhode Island School of Design is highly learned and distinguished which enables students to be the best in their field of study.
- High Placements: According to Alumni Survey for Class of 2021 released by the Rhode Island School of Design, in December 2022, more than 77% of its graduates were found to be employed and 18% pursuing higher education. The average salary of a graduate of Rhode Island School of Design is approximately INR 33-35L. During the period of 2000-2020, there are 11 winners of Prestigious MACARTHUR ‘GENUIS’ AWARD, among other awards.
- Low Student to Faculty Ratio: According to US News and World Report 2024 the student to faculty ratio at Rhode Island School of Design is 9:1, which provides a quality and interactive classroom experience to its students.
Q: What are the popular sectors that indian students prefer for doing part-time jobs at Rhode Island school of Design?
Some sectors that may be of interest to Indian students for doing part-time jobs at Rhode Island School of Design include:
Graphic Design: There are 20 graphic design jobs available in Providence, RI, which is close to the Rhode Island School of Design.
Liberal Arts: The Rhode Island School of Design has a diverse selection of Liberal Arts courses, and the Department comprises ten full-time and twenty-eight part-time faculty members.
Healthcare: There are 27 Indian jobs available in Rhode Island, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care Physician, and Child Protection Practitioner.
Two Days Week Jobs: There are 781 two-day week jobs available in Providence, RI, which may be suitable for students looking for part-time work.
Q: What is the most preferred course by indian students at Rhode Island school of Design?
Fine Arts is the most popular major at Rhode Island School of Design, with a top-ranked master's programme in fine arts that can include a range of specializations, such as photography, sculpture, and painting. Some of the popular courses at the university include MFA in Photography, BFA in Film, Animation and Video, BFA in Photography, Master of Architecture, BFA in Painting, MFA in Painting, MFA in Graphic Design, BFA in Graphic Design, Bachelor of Architecture.
Q: Is getting part-time jobs easy while studying at Rhode Island school of Design?
Finding part-time jobs while studying at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is possible. RISD offers resources for students seeking employment or internships, including information about jobs, entrepreneurship opportunities, and connecting with RISD alumni networks. Additionally, job search websites such as HigherEdJobs, Indeed, and LinkedIn list various part-time job opportunities at RISD. These resources can help students find part-time jobs that fit their schedules and academic commitments.
Popular Program
Amongst the multiple courses offered by the college, all first-year undergraduate students at RISD need to enroll in Experimental & Foundation Studies to ensure that students receive a basic understanding of RISD’s approach to studio learning. RISD offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across various courses such as Fine Arts, Architecture, Animation, Design, and Graphics. As of 2024, based on credible information on the web Rhode School of Design enrolls around 2044 undergraduate and 532 graduate students with approximately 33% international students. Some of the most popular courses offered by the Rhode Island School of Design include BFA/MFA in Graphic Design and BFA in Film/Animation/Video.
The pie chart given below provides information on the various popular courses offered at Rhode Island School of Design
Note: The 'Others' in the pie chart refers to some popular courses such as Marketing, Interior Architecture, Apparel Design, etc.
Undergraduate Degrees Offered at Rhode Island School of Design are mentioned below-
|
Undergraduate Degree |
Duration |
|---|---|
|
BFA Apparel Design |
4 years |
|
BArch Architecture |
5 years |
|
BFA Film/Animation/Video |
4 years |
|
BFA Furniture Design |
4 years |
Graduate Degree Offered at Rhode Island School of Design-
|
Graduate Degree |
Duration |
|---|---|
|
MFA in Graphic Design |
2 years |
|
MFA in Illustration |
2 years |
|
MFA in Digital + Media |
2 years |
Guided 4.7K students to USA universities.
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12.3K+ students got admitted through us.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Q: What are people's opinions on Rhode Island school of Design for MFA?
The opinions about the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) for MFA are mixed. Some students and graduates praise the rigorous and beneficial nature of the programs, citing the school's high ranking and its preparation for the creative world. However, there are also negative opinions, with some expressing concerns about the school's lack of preparation for students who are not among the wealthiest, as well as its high cost.
Q: Why choose Rhode Island school of Design for an MFA in the USA rather than University of California, Davis?
Here are some factors to consider:
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD):
- Ranked third in the world for art and design
- Located in Providence, Rhode Island, which is known for its vibrant arts scene and cultural attractions
- Has a smaller student body, which can lead to more personalized attention and a closer-knit community
- Known for its rigorous and challenging curriculum, which can help prepare students for successful careers in the art
University of California, Davis (UC Davis):
- Ranked second in the world for art and design
- Located in Davis, California, which is known for its beautiful campus and proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area, offering access to a variety of cultural and artistic opportunities
- Has a larger student body, which can provide more opportunities for networking and collaboration
Q: Is a BFA in Graphic Design good at Rhode Island School of Design?
Graphic Design is one of the largest departments at the Rhode Island School of Design with over 150 undergraduates exposed to an ocean of opportunities ensuring the students’ strong understanding of design principles, theories of communication, and strategies for proper solving. BFA in Graphic Design is a four-year course offered by RISD along with professional internships during summers and the entire semester. Students design projects on designing books, magazines, UX and websites, film, graphics, and magazines.
Q: Should I do a BFA in Film/Animation/Video from the Rhode Island School of Design?
BFA in Film/Animation/Video is a 4-year course offered by the Rhode Island School of Design ensuring students’ learning by focusing on making documentaries, animated work, experimental and narrative films by using multiple techniques such as GCI, stop-motion animation, and more. Multiple RISD Alumni are employed at studios like Pixar, and DreamWorks, or networks like HBO, PBS, and FOX. Thus, if this course aligns with your interest then opting for it can be beneficial.
Q: What is the Experimental and Foundational Studies about at RISD?
Experimental & Foundational Studies is a curriculum offered to the first-year undergraduate major students of RISD College. The main aim behind this curriculum is to provide a shared understanding of studio learning. EFS incorporates three programs- Drawing, Design, and Spatial Dynamics. Students work on challenging assignments with constant feedback and guidance from the faculty.
Scholarships
Applicants will be considered for the RISD Scholarship based on the financial aid application process during the time of admission to RISD’s Scholarships.
Special Scholarships-
First-year students with high academic achievements and artistic achievements are offered several scholarships each year by RISD. The scholarship comprises two awards of a minimum $10,000 given to students participating in the National YoungArts Foundation competition and two awards worth $10,000 are given to students participating in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. To be eligible for these scholarships, students must apply for the YoungArts Foundation competition or the Scholastic Art & Writing Award. Financial aid controlled by the Rhode Island School of Design is unavailable to special, visiting, international or, exchange students.
Scholarships awarded by the Rhode Island School of Design to undergraduate international students include:
- Graduate Fellowship
- Graduate Assistantship
Other scholarships that international students can apply for are-
|
Scholarship name |
Amount |
Scholarship type |
|---|---|---|
|
Unimoni student stars 2023 |
?3 L |
External |
|
JN Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship |
?10 L |
External |
|
K.C. Mahindra Scholarships for Post-Graduate Study Abroad |
?10 L |
External |
|
Young Women in Public Affairs Award |
?4.2 L |
External |
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Q: What are the top scholarships for Indian Students at Rhode Island school of Design and how to avail them?
Some of the top scholarships for Indian students at RISD are:
RISD Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on financial need at the time of admission and assume full-time enrollment.
Kanti and Hansa Jasani Family Textile Scholarship: This scholarship offers three $1,000 scholarships to Indian students, specifically Indian citizens with a focus on textile-related careers.
AATCC Foundation Scholarships: The AATCC Foundation provides scholarships to students attending a US university, including Indian students.
To avail these scholarships, international students need to complete the institutional financial aid form available via the Admissions applicant status portal. For the AATCC Foundation Scholarships, students should apply through the AATCC Foundation website.
Q: What scores do I need to have to get a scholarship at Rhode Island school of Design?
For some external scholarships at the Rhode Island School of Design, which are listed on the Going Merry website, they may require a minimum GPA of 2.25 for eligibility. To be considered for RISD scholarships, first-year applicants must complete the FAFSA, and the deadlines for financial aid submissions are November 15 for early decision and February 15 for regular decision. Additionally, RISD's average GPA for admitted students is 3.6.
Q: What is the graduate assistantship offered by the Rhode Island School of Design?
Graduate assistantship is assigned by the graduate programme director through each graduate programme during the admission process. The specific positions are not assigned until the beginning of each semester. International students without a social security number are refrained from the assistantship during the first semester.
Q: Does Rhode Island School of Design offer scholarships to International students?
For international students to receive the benefits of the scholarship offered by RISD College, students need to participate in the National YoungArts Foundation Competition which comprises two awards of at least $10,000 (INR 835,115). Two awards of a minimum $10,000 are also made to participants in the Scholastic Art & Writing Award in which international students can participate. Other scholarships awarded by the Rhode Island School of Design for undergraduate international students include Graduate Fellowship and Graduate Assistantship.
Admissions 2025
The infographic given below offers information about the Rhode Island School of Design admissions:
Application Deadlines
The regular decision application deadline is Jan 16, 2025. The university releases decisions in mid-March.
Admission Requirements for International Students
The main RISD application process is completed through the common application. The application documents required for both undergraduate and graduate students are mentioned below-
- English language proficiency test
- A portfolio of 10-12 examples presenting your best work
- An assignment (for undergraduates) and a statement of purpose (for graduates)
- 1-3 LORS
Acceptance Rate
Rhode Island School of Design’s acceptance rate is 19% hence making admission to the University moderately competitive.
Application Fee
International students must pay $60 as an admission fee at RISD for both undergraduate and graduate programs. An additional $10 fee is also charged for submitting an online portfolio. Both the fees are non-refundable.
Eligibility
At the undergraduate level, non-native English-speaking students are required to submit their English Proficiency score. Students can be exempted from taking the proficiency score if he/she has previously attended an English medium school. The English Proficiency score requirements laid down by RISD are-
|
English Exam Accepted |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
93 |
|
|
6.5 |
|
|
Duolingo |
115 |
For postgraduate admissions, the English Proficiency score required remains the same as the undergraduate score.
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Regular
Documents| Type of documents | Applicable for |
|---|---|
| SOP | Needed for few courses |
| LOR | Needed for few courses |
| Essays | Needed for few courses |
| CV | Needed for few courses |
| Additional documents | Required |
Important dates| Intake season | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | 5ᵗʰ Jan 2024 |
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Q: Can an average indian student join Rhode Island school of Design?
Yes, an average Indian student can join the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) if they meet the admission requirements and are accepted into the program. According to US News and World Report 2024, RISD has an acceptance rate of 19%. The school does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission, but applicants who speak English as a second language must submit results from either the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), or Duolingo (an online English test).
Q: What are the deadlines for submitting applications for Indian students at Rhode Island school of Design?
Here are the deadlines for applying to Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) as an international student:
Undergraduate Early Action Deadline: November 1
Undergraduate Regular Application Deadline: January 16
Graduate Application Deadline: January 5, 2024
International students should not send I-20 application materials until they are admitted to RISD. After receiving the I-20 form, students pay a SEVIS I-901 fee and schedule a visa interview at their the nearest US embassy or consulate.
Q: Are there many students from other countries studying at Rhode Island school of Design?
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) has a total of approximately 776 international students on campus, 518 of whom are undergraduates. The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is home to students from 65 different countries, with the majority of international students coming from China, South Korea, and Canada. Through its exchange programs with top art and design schools and universities worldwide, which provide students the chance to study abroad and participate in cross-cultural experiences, RISD further demonstrates its dedication to global participation.
Q: What are the documents required in the visa process for Indian students at Rhode Island school of Design, USA?
According to the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) website, Indian students who plan to enroll at RISD will be asked to complete and submit an I-20 application via the RISD. Once submitted and reviewed, an I-20 will be created and sent to the student. After receiving the I-20 form, students pay a SEVIS I-901 fee and schedule a visa interview at their the nearest US embassy or consulate. Admitted international students enrolling at RISD must submit results from any of these three options: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. If academic credentials are not written in English, they must be translated into English by an approved translator before submission. SAT or ACT results are not required for admission.
Q: How is applying to Rhode Island school of Design different from applying to other universities in USA?
Applying to Rhode Island School of Design is similar to applying to other universities in the US, in that applicants need to submit their credentials electronically using the online methods or mail paper versions of official transcripts, recommendations, and test reports to the RISD Admissions Office. However, RISD is a specialised art and design school, so applicants need to submit artwork, test scores, and essays/statements. RISD has advanced tools and resources for students to use, and the campus hosts some 80,000 artworks.
Fees
For the academic year 2024-25, the Rhode Island School of Design cost for undergraduate students is around $85,986 (INR 7,183,588). This includes outside expenses such as housing, food, books, supplies, transportation, and other additional expenses.
For postgraduate students, the Rhode Island School of Design’s cost is around $91,864 (INR 7,674,658). This includes outside expenses such as housing, food, books, transportation, etc. An application fee of $60 (INR 5,011) needs to be paid by international students for both graduate and undergraduate programs.
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
M.Arch(1 course) | INR 49 L | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 93 & Above, Duolingo: 115 & Above |
BFA(2 courses) | INR 52 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 93 & Above, Duolingo: 115 & Above |
MFA(2 courses) | INR 49 L - 52 L | Duration: 2-3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 93 & Above, Duolingo: 115 & Above |
M.A.(1 course) | INR 52 L | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 93 & Above, Duolingo: 115 & Above |
B.E. / B.Tech(1 course) | INR 52 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 93 & Above |
B.Arch(1 course) | INR 52 L | Duration: 5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 93 & Above |
B.J.M.C.(1 course) | INR 50 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 93 & Above, Duolingo: 115 & Above |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Q: How my application is reviewed at Rhode Island School of Design?
Your application for admission at Rhode Island School of Design is reviewed on the following parameter:
- Rigor of your high school curriculum
- Difficulty of coursework
- Extra-curricular or leadership activities
- Awards
- Special talents or skills possessed by a student
- Letters of recommendation (optional)
Q: What does Rhode Island School of Design look for in an applicant?
The Rhode Island School of Design look for certain qualities to assess the applications into MBA program, applicants having following qualities are desired:
- Professional work experience.
- Academic potential
- Proven success working in teams
- Cultural diversity or international work or travel experience.
- Leadership qualities
- Effective communication skills.
Q: How expensive is it to live at Rhode Island school of Design?
The cost of living at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) includes tuition, fees, housing, and dining. Here is a breakdown of the estimated costs for the 2023-24 academic year:
Tuition: $58,690 per year or $29,345 per semester
Activity fee: $270 per year or $135 per semester
Academic and technology fee: $800 per year or $400 per semester
Estimated housing and dining: $15,850 per year or $7,925 per semester
In addition, housing rates per semester are as follows:
Shared rooms (double, triple, and quad): $7,925
Single rooms: $9,022.
Q: Is a score of 85 in TOEFL good for Rhode Island school of Design?
No, RISD requires a minimum result of 93 on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or 6.5 on the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) for applicants who speak English as a second language, including US citizens. All applicants who speak English as a second language, including US citizens, must submit results from one of these tests. RISD does not accept other English proficiency tests.
Q: Is Rhode Island school of Design cheaper than University of California, Davis?
The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) are both prestigious institutions, but their costs vary. To compare the costs, we can look at the tuition and fees for each school.
Rhode Island School of Design: According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the 2022-2023 undergraduate tuition and fees for RISD were $56,680.
University of California, Davis: The 2022-2023 undergraduate tuition and fees for UC Davis were $14,482 for California residents and $43,528 for non-residents.
Placements
The graduates of the Rhode Island School of Design secure placement across multiple organizations and industries. Some of the organizations and sectors in which the graduates of the university secure placements are listed below:
- The graduates of the Rhode Island School of Design secure placements in organizations such as Google, Apple, Microsoft, Nike, Meta, Amazon, Netflix, and others.
- The alumni of the university secure placement in industries such as Engineering, Information Technology, Community and Social Services, Marketing, Media and Communication, and many more.
Alumni Statistics: Sectors Placed
Note: The 'Others' in the pie chart refers to some other placement opportunities such as Consulting, Research, Product Management, Sales, etc.
ROI After Education at Rhode Island School of Design
The average salary of the graduates of Rhode Island School of Design after graduation is around USD 78K (INR 65 L).
(Note: The average graduate salary has been derived from unofficial sources)
Top Employers
The graduates of the Rhode Island School of Design secure job placements in top companies across multiple organizations such as:
- Meta
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Netflix
- Nike
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Q: What are the job opportunities after doing an MFA from Rhode Island school of Design?
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) offers an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) degree in various fields such as Illustration, Graphic Design, Ceramics, and more. After completing an MFA from RISD, one can pursue various job opportunities such as Assistant or Associate Professor in Illustration, Graphic Design, or Ceramics departments. Other job opportunities include Curator, Instructor, and Practitioner in the respective fields.
Q: What are some of the organizations in which graduates of the Rhode Island School of Design work?
Some of the well-known organizations in which the graduates of RISD college work are Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Nike. The average salary of gradutes at Rhode Island School of Design is approximately INR 33 - 35L.
Q: What is the average salary offered to Rhode Island School of Design graduates?
The average salary of the graduates of the Rhode Island School of Design is around USD 78K (INR 65 L). The average salary range based on the job placements secured by the graduates of RISD are listed below:
Profession | Average Salary |
|---|---|
UX Designer | USD 105,123 (INR 88 L) |
Industrial Designer | USD 64,155 (INR 53 L) |
Interior Designer | USD 64,539 (INR 54 L) |
Creative Director | USD 124,800 (INR 1 Cr) |
Architectural Designer | USD 57,391 (INR 48 L) |
Rankings 2025
Founded and established in 1877, Rhode Island School of Design is one of the oldest and most renowned colleges of art and design in the U.S. According to the top-ranking publishers, for 2022 RISD is ranked 135. Programs offered at undergraduate and graduate levels consistently secure a top position as per the top-ranking publishers. For 2024, Rhode Island School of Design has secured the 4th rank for Best Colleges in Regional Universities North.
The subject ranking of top courses offered by the Rhode Island School of Design according to a credible ranking source for the year 2024 is as follows-
|
Subject |
Rank |
|---|---|
|
Art & Design |
4 |
|
Art History |
9 |
|
Arts & Humanities |
294 |
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Q: How good is Rhode Island School of Design compared to Pratt Institute?
Both Rhode Island School of Design and Pratt Institute are Prestigious universities which offers state of the art education to its students, a broad comparison between the two universities is given below:
Parameters | Rhode Island School of Design | Pratt Institute |
|---|---|---|
City Located | Providence, Rhode Island | New York |
Type of University | Private | Private |
Total Enrollment | 2576 | 14,119 |
Number or percentage of international students | 33% | 8.25% |
Average Tuition fees* | INR 39L | INR 46.21L |
Acceptance rate# | 19% | 63% |
Student to faculty ratio | 9:1 | 13:1 |
*for tuition fees B.Arch. is considered for both universities.
#Acceptance rate is given as per US News and World Report.
Q: What is the rank of Rhode Island school of Design in the world?
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is a highly ranked institution for art and design education. Here are some of its rankings:
Best Colleges for Art in America: RISD ranks 6th out of 736 institutions
Best Colleges for Design in America: RISD ranks 11th out of 438 institutions
Regional Universities North: RISD ranks 4th in the 2024 edition of Best Colleges
QS WUR Ranking By Subject 2023: RISD ranks 7th.
Q: Is Rhode Island School of Design a top university?
RISD College is one of the top private art colleges in the world securing an overall rank of 135 in 2022 as per the top-ranking publishers. Moreover, the University is also ranked at 4 for the best college in Regional Universities North. Rhode Island School of Design’s acceptance rate is 19% hence making admission to the University moderately competitive. Besides the academic excellence offered by RISD, the university also ensures a campus that is inclusive, and diverse ensuring good accomodation facilities as well for the students.
Q: Which undergraduate courses offered by the Rhode Island School of Design hold the highest ranking?
According to the Shiksha Study Abroad grading system, the undergraduate courses offered by RISD college that hold the highest grading are-
Course | Shiksha Study Abroad Grade |
|---|---|
BFA in Painting | A+ |
BFA in Photography | A+ |
Q: Which graduate courses offered by the Rhode Island School of Design hold the highest ranking?
Based on the Shiksha Study Abroad grading system, the graduate courses offered by Rhode Island School of Design that hold the highest ranking are-
Course | Shiksha Study Abroad Grade |
|---|---|
MFA in Painting | A+ |
MFA in Photography | A+ |
Rhode Island Vs Parson Vs Pratt Institute: Which is Better?
Rhode Island School of Design, Parson School of Design, and Pratt Institute are all top universities in the United States. RISD has secured the rank of #4 by Subject in 2024, while Parson ranked #4 in 2023 and Pratt has ranked #6 in 2024 by Subject. Some of the top courses offered at Rhode Island School of Design are Illustration, Industrial Design, Ceramic Art, and various others. Parson School of Design also offers some top courses highly opted by students such as Architectural Design, Communication Design, Fashion Design, and many more. Some of the well-known majors offered by the Pratt Institute are Visual &Performing Arts, Architecture & Related Services, Communication Technologies, Education, and Technicians & Support Services.
The infographic given below offers a university comparison between the above-mentioned univeristies:
Compare RISD with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Shiksha Grade | Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
RISD | INR 49.46 L | -/- | -/- |
Pratt Institute  Compare | INR 41.62 L | -/- | -/- |
Boston Architectural College Compare | INR 20.02 L - 24.1 L | -/- | -/- |
SCAD Compare | INR 34.62 L - 35.49 L | -/- | -/- |
Jefferson University Compare | INR 20.04 L - 43.72 L | C | #474 US News, 2024 |
Academy of Art University Compare | INR 21.3 L - 42.59 L | -/- | -/- |
Studying in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Commonly asked questions On Study in Country
Q: What are the requirements to study in USA for international students?
International students must meet the requirements to study in USA. Students must have a required qualification as per the programme and submit the test score during the process. Check below the English language test and additional tests accepted by US Universities:
Entrance Exam | Count of Universities |
|---|---|
497 | |
496 | |
431 | |
28 |
English Language Exams | Count of Universities |
|---|---|
950 | |
864 | |
434 | |
349 |
Q: Which are the top universities in USA for international students?
Check below the list of top universities in USA for international students by QS:
Universities in USA | QS World Ranking 2024 |
|---|---|
1 | |
4 | |
5 | |
10 | |
11 | |
12 | |
13 | |
15 | |
16 | |
17 |
Q: What is the cost of living in USA for international students?
On an average, a student spends approximately INR 93,000 in a month to fulfil living costs in USA. The cost of living in USA is 224.3% higher than the cost of living in India also the rent in USA is 769.9% higher than in India. Thus, it is natural that the cost of living in the USA is very high for an Indian student. The table given below specifies the estimated student cost of living in the USA that is based on different expenses.
Expenses in USA | Average Yearly / Monthly cost |
|---|---|
Books and study material | USD 900 - USD 2,000 per year |
Travel | USD 300 - USD 700 per year |
Accommodation | USD 9,800 - USD 11,100 per year |
Electricity | USD 100 - USD 150 per month |
Food | On campus: USD 250 per month Off-campus: USD 400 - USD 600 per month |
Phone subscription | USD 50 per month |
Home Internet | USD 45 - USD 50 per month |
Health Insurance | USD 700 - USD 1,100 per year |
Clothes | USD 500 per year |
Water, Trash and Sewer | USD 50 - USD 75 per month |
(1 USD = 83.05 INR)
Note: These amounts will differ from state to state within the US. On average, the cost of Indian food in the USA is around USD 350 - USD 400 for one person.
Notable Alumni
Many graduates of the Rhode Island School of Design have made a successful name out in the world, especially in film-making and television. RISD has many notable alumni. Some of the well-known alumni of RISD are Michael Dante Dimartino, an American animator, producer, writer, the co-creator of the famous series Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Gus Van Sant, an American filmmaker, photographer, and director of Good Will Hunting. The list of notable alumni who graduated from RISD College is mentioned below-
|
Rhode Island School of Design Alumni |
Profession |
Pictures |
|---|---|---|
|
Michael Dante Dimartino |
American animator, producer, writer & director.
|
|
|
Seth Macfarlane |
American actor, animator director, comedian, singer, writer & producer.
|
|
|
Angus MacLane |
American filmmaker, animator, voice actor.
|
|
|
James Franco |
Actor, Artist |
|
|
Jemima Kirke |
Artist, Actor, Director |
|
|
David Hanson Jr. |
Robotics Designer of Sofia |
|
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Q: Which notable alumni graduated from RISD?
Angus MacLane an American filmmaker, animator, and voice actor is a notable alumnus of the Rhode Island School of Design. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from RISD College in 1997. He is famously known for his work at the Pixar Animation Studio and as the co-director of Finding Dory (2016). Additionally, he has also worked in the character development of Monsters, Inc. and The Incredibles and a few feature films such as A Bug’s Life, Toy Story 2, Cars, and Ratatouille. Due to the ongoing company-wide restructuring, Angus was laid off by The Walt Disney Company following the commercial failure of Lightyear.
Q: Who are some notable alumni of RISD?
There are multiple successful alumni of Rhode Island School of Design. One such well-known alumnus of RISD is Robert Richardson, an American cinematographer. He is famous for his trademark aggressively bright highlight and shapeshifting style of film-making. Some of his best contributions to the industry include The Hateful Eight, Born on the Fourth of July, Hugo, and many more. He has achieved the Academy Award for Best Cinematography, thrice making him one of three living persons to receive the same. He graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in Film/Animation/Video. Another famous alumnus of RISD is Michael Dante Dimartino.
Q: Who are some renowned alumni of RISD?
Multiple well-known alumni of RISD who have contributed significantly to the entertainment industry. Some of the famous alumni are Seth MacFarlane, he is an American actor, animator, director, comedian, singer, writer, and producer. He is best known for his TV series Family Guy. Another famous actor who is an alumnus of the Rhode Island School of Design is James Franco. He has starred in multiple films such as Eat Pray Love, Spider-Man Trilogy, Milk, Oz The Great and Powerful, and many more.
Rhode Island School of Design Campus Life
The Rhode Island School of Design ensures an inclusive, and diverse campus life for students besides offering academic excellence. The university consists of an RISD museum, a library, research labs, and many other facilities for students to enjoy their time at RISD.
Commonly asked questions On Additional Details 1
Q: What are the housing facilities offered by the Rhode Island School of Design?
The RISD offers housing facilities to students ensuring that the students enjoy their time at RISD by making new friends. The University offers multiple housing options such as on-campus housing, medical housing accommodation, and off-campus housing. Students have access to facilities such as laundry machines, and dining plans. Depending on which housing option the students opt for, the facilities provided with it also vary.
Q: What are some extracurricular facilities offered to students at Rhode Island School of Design?
The Rhode Island School of Design offers students more than 50 clubs and organizations to participate. These clubs and organizations helps students at RISD again academic experience as well as share their hobbies and passions with those who share the same interest. Students can also take part in service events or even organize community projects with fellow students. Students can also engage in intercultural activities and even visit the museums, art galleries, and nearby cities during the weekends.
RISD FAQs
Q: Is Rhode Island School of Design good for International students?
Rhode Island School of Design is one of the most sought destination for International students. with an acceptance rate of 19% the Rhode Island School of Design is one of the popular university among International student’s community.
- The Rhode Island School of Design accepts students from many countries across the globe. However, the students who do not have English as their first language may require to have English language proficiency Tests score.
- Career Boost to the students: The students of Rhode Island School of Design have a good career after studying from the university as it prepares them holistically about the industry requirements and providing them the opportunity to have a successful career. According to Alumni Survey for Class of 2021 released by the Rhode Island School of Design, in December 2022, more than 77% of its graduates were found to be employed and 18% pursuing higher education. The average salary of a graduate of Rhode Island School of Design is approximately INR 33-35L.
- During the period of 2000-2020, there are 11 winners of Prestigious MACARTHUR ‘GENUIS’ AWARD, among other awards.
- Post Work Opportunities: USA is the top destination among International students including Indian students to settle after studying. The country offers a high quality of life, good job opportunities, and a work life balance.
Here is all you need to know post study work visa in USA.
Q: How current student review Rhode Island School of Design?
As per various student opinion available online on various sources, students review Rhode Island School of Design on following:
- Variety of Courses: Rhode Island School of Design offers at undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across disciplines such as Fine arts, Architecture, Design, Animation, Graphic and Industrial Design.
- Low Student to Faculty Ratio: According to US News and World Report 2024, the student to faculty ratio at Rhode Island School of Design is 9:1, which provides a quality and interactive classroom experience to its students.
- International Community: The University has very strong International Community with more than 33% of international students out of total student enrollment of 2500.
- Fun Activities: There are plenty fun activities to do in and an around the Rhode Island School of Design including sports, hiking, and community service.
- More Focus on Learning and improving skills
- Highly distinguished and learned faculties: the faculty at Rhode Island School of Design is highly learned and distinguished which enables students to be the best in their field of study.
- Good Infrastructure and Facilities provided by the university.
Q: Why do Indian students choose to study at Rhode Island school of Design?
Indian students choose to study at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) for several reasons. The RISD has a global focus and offers opportunities for cross-cultural experiences, such as connecting students with traditional artisans in India through its Global Studies program. Additionally, a significant number of international students, including those from India, creates a diverse and inclusive environment at RISD. Furthermore, the collaboration and research opportunities available at RISD attract students from around the world, including India.
RISD
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 4 weeks ago
Rhode Island School of Design has an acceptance rate of 19% making admissions to the university somewhat competitive and selective. Students must secure the English Language proficiency test equal to or higher than the minimum scores accepted by the university. The minimum accepted English Language
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 weeks ago
Rhode Island School of Design and Parsons School of Design are both high-ranking and well-known universities located in the United States of America. Multiple parameters need to be taken into consideration to determine which university is better such as the programs offered, the tuition fees, schola
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 weeks ago
Rhode Island School of Design and Pratt Institute are both highly recognised universities located in the United States of America. Rhode Island School of Design has an acceptance rate of 19%, indicating that out of 100 students around 19 students will be granted admission to the university hence ma
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 weeks ago
The acceptance rate at Rhode Island School of Design is around 19%, making admission to the university relatively competitive and selective. Students must also secure the minimum English Language test scores accepted by the university such as TOEFL (93), IELTS (6.5), and Duolingo (115). Students mu
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 months ago
Rhode Island School of Design’s acceptance rate is 19% thus making it moderately competitive for students to get admission. The university has approximately 2,538+ students with 2,090+ undergraduate and 448+ graduate students. RISD has approximately 34% international students with an 89% graduation
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Contributor-Level 10
About the author
Rhode Island School of Design
Aerial View
Carr House - Rhode Island School of Design
RISDLocation
| University City | Providence, Rhode Island, USA |
| Size of city | Medium |
| Population of City | 1,79,000 |
RISDCampuses
Two College Street Providence, RI 02903-2784
Visit official siteRISDContact Information
Two College Street
Providence, RI 02903-2784
Providence ( Rhode Island)
RISD Popular & recent articles
Is it difficult to get admission to Rhode Island School of Design?