Application Process
How to apply?
To apply, go to the housing application portal (this will be found in the “How to Apply” section at rvapts@rice.edu), register, and pay the $125 non-refundable application fee. After payment, you will complete the rest of the process within the portal.
Who can apply?
Only full-time, currently registered Rice University graduate students. First year incoming graduate students can apply after receiving an official offer from the University. Current students can apply however, first-year students will have priority.
Can I apply to more than one property to increase my chances of obtaining a spot?
No, only one application per student will be accepted. However, you will rank your preferences for RGA, RVA, and RVT within that application. If your top choice is full, you will be placed on a waiting list. While we guarantee housing for all applications completed by the deadline of April 20th, we cannot guarantee placement in your preferred property or floorplan. A second application will not be processed.
Can I apply for housing with my family?
Yes, you can apply for family housing with a spouse/domestic partner, and/or children only at the Rice Village Apartments (RVA) and Rice Village Townhomes (RVT).
How can I pay the application fee?
You can pay the application fee with a debit or credit card.
Will I get my application fee back?
No. The application fee is non-refundable.
When is my application considered complete?
Your application is considered complete once the application fee has been paid.
What can I do if my payment is not going through?
Please wait a few minutes to try again, or use a different browser, or even a different card. The system does not allow duplicate payments so you will only be charged once. If problems persist, reach out to us at gradapts@rice.edu, or rvapts@rice.edu.
Can I request a tour at RGA/RVA/RVT?
Applicants can request a property tour by emailing us their preferred time and date. Please note that we require at least one week's notice to accommodate your requested date.
- RGA: gradapts@rice.edu
- RVA / RVT: rvapts@rice.edu
Where can I find information about the floorplans and rent?
Floor plans and rent information for Rice Graduate Apartments (RGA) can be found here:
https://housing.rice.edu/graduate-housing/rice-graduate-apartments/rice-graduate-apartments-floorplans
Floor plans and rent information for Rice Village Apartments (RVA) can be found here:
https://housing.rice.edu/graduate-housing/rice-village-apartments/rice-village-apartments-floorplans
Floor plans and rent information for Rice Village Townhomes (RVT) can be found here:
https://housing.rice.edu/graduate-housing/rice-village-townhomes/rice-village-townhomes-floorplans
Is a room deposit required to reserve a space?
We do not require a deposit to reserve a space. However, you must pay a non-refundable Housing Service Fee before signing the Housing Agreement. Once signed, the Housing Agreement becomes a binding agreement for both parties, securing your spot, but also that we expect you to move in on the agreed dates and for the complete period of the agreement.
How much is the Housing Service Fee?
The Housing Service Fee is $200 (non-refundable).
Is the Housing Service Fee refundable?
No. The Housing Service Fee is non-refundable.
How does Rice Graduate Housing select residents from the housing applicants?
Incoming first-year graduate students are given priority for Rice Graduate Student Housing facilities. This allows incoming graduate students the opportunity to better familiarize themselves with the surrounding area during their first year.
Roommate Matching
May I choose my own roommate?
Yes, you can select your own roommate through our housing portal. If you have a specific roommate in mind, you can both mutually select each other. You will only be able to search for and match with potential roommates after completing your housing application.
How are roommates matched?
Roommate matching is available through our housing portal, where you can search for and connect with potential roommates.
What happens when my roommate(s) and I have a conflict?
After move-in, it is mandatory to complete a Roommate Agreement by the end of the second week after the last roommate's move-in. This agreement contains the terms and conditions by which you agree to share an apartment. Conflicts will be resolved between the roommates based on the agreed terms of the roommate agreement. If conflicts persist, residents may seek mediation through the RGHS team.
Housing Agreement and Community Policies
What is a housing agreement?
A housing agreement is an agreement between Rice University, Housing and Dining Department, Housing Services and the resident that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties. This agreement grants the resident the right to occupy and use the assigned housing space for a specific period. In return, the resident pays a specified rent during the time of occupancy. Once both parties sign the housing agreement, they are bound by its terms. All residents of Rice Graduate Student Housing (RGSH) are required to sign a housing agreement for their assigned space.
When does my housing agreement start and end?
The housing agreement standard start date is August 12th and ends May 15th of the following year. Depending on availability, students can request an early move-in date. This date must be communicated and agreed upon by management.
Can I stay at RGA/RVA/RVT during winter break?
Yes, your housing agreement duration includes the winter break, and you will be financially responsible until the end of your housing agreement term.
What is the term of the Housing Agreement?
We offer a nine-month Housing Agreement (August-May) for the academic calendar year.
Can I stay at RGA/RVA/RVT during the summer (after the end of the housing agreement)?
After the end of the housing agreement on May 15th, students may have the option to extend through the summer, until July 15th. However, this may vary from year to year depending on the availability of rooms.
When can I move into my room?
The standard move-in date is August 12th. If you would like to move in prior to this date, you must request for an earlier date on your housing application. This is approved depending on availability.
Can my belongings be shipped to my apartment before I arrive?
No. We do not have storage facilities to hold belongings for future residents and cannot sign for packages for non-residents. Any items that are shipped to RGA or RVA/RVT prior to move-in will be returned to the sender.
Is smoking allowed?
All graduate apartment buildings are smoke-free communities. Smoking is strictly prohibited in the rooms, common areas, and hallways. Smoking is allowed only in designated outside areas of the facility.
Are pets allowed?
No. Pets are not allowed in any Rice Graduate Student Housing facilities. However, Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) approved by theRice University Disability Resource Center are permitted. No other animals of any kind are allowed anywhere on the premises, including individual rooms, common areas, and outdoor spaces.
Can I have visitors and overnight guests?
Yes. Please refer to the housing agreement for the maximum number of days this is allowed. Roommates are required to discuss overnight visitors in advance when preparing the roommate agreement. If the visitors or overnight guest have cars, the resident is responsible for applying for the visitor parking permit beforehand. Make sure to always accompany your guests around the building, as guests are only permitted to wander in the company of the resident.
Services and Events at RGA/RVA/RVT
How do I get around?
A shuttle service takes residents to and from campus every 15 to 20 mins. You can track the shuttle through the TransLoc App or RSystems apps, or on the bus tracker website: https://rice.ridesystems.net/routes.
What amenities are included in my rent?
Your rent includes Rice network internet access, water, trash, sewage, recycling, package concierge, maintenance services, RUPD service, on-site RA staff, shuttle service, IP television and/or internet live streaming TV, social events, and regular pest control services. Electricity is not included. Upon moving in, you have 7 days to register your apartment with a power company of your choice. To compare providers, you can visit Choose Texas Power or Power To Choose.
What furniture do you provide and what do I need to bring?
You check the list of furniture provided on the floor plan of each property.
Do the properties provide maintenance and repair services?
Yes, all RGSH properties provide maintenance services.
What social events do we have at Grad Housing?
RGA/RVA/RVT host various events to encourage community engagement. These events include fall orientation, holiday parties, competitions, and study breaks, among many others throughout the year.
Does RGA/RVA/RVT have a social media account?
Yes. RGSH properties have Instagram accounts: @gradapts (RGA) and@rvapts (RVA/RVT). Follow us on both social medial platforms for the most updated information!
Contact Us
Office Hours:
Saturday 10AM - 2PM (CST)
Sunday: Closed
Please note: Our office hours may be affected by staff holidays set by Rice University.
- Monday - Friday 10AM - 7PM CST (Closed for Lunch: 12PM - 1PM CST)
- Saturday: 10 AM - 2 PM CST (Closed for lunch from 12 PM - 1 PM CST)
- Sunday: Closed
RGA Email: gradapts@rice.edu | RGA Phone: (713) 348-4723
RVA/RVT Email: rvapts@rice.edu | RVA/RVT Phone: (713) 348-4050