American vs RPI
How American and RPI stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| American | RPI | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 62% | 63% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1280-1460 | 1300-1500 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | DC | NY |
| Sticker price (per year) | $79,000 | $85,288 |
| Average cost after aid | $37,000 | $43,711 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 2 |
- American is harder to get into than RPI (62% versus 63%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, American is usually the cheaper option ($37,000 versus $43,711 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- RPI asks for more supplemental writing (2 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
American vs RPI FAQ
Is American or RPI harder to get into?
American is harder to get into, admitting about 62% of applicants versus 63% at RPI.
Is American or RPI cheaper?
After financial aid, American is usually cheaper, about $37,000 per year on average versus $43,711 at RPI.
See your real chances at American and RPI.
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