FAQs for Housing Application

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.

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.

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.

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).

You can pay the application fee with a debit or credit card.

No. The application fee is non-refundable.

Your application is considered complete once the application fee has been paid.

Please wait a few minutes to try again, or use a different browser or 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.

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

• Rice Graduate Apartments (RGA)
• Rice Village Apartments (RVA)
• Rice Village Townhomes (RVT)

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 and confirming your move-in dates.

The Housing Service Fee is $200 (non-refundable).

No. The Housing Service Fee is non-refundable.

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.

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.

Roommate matching is available through our housing portal, where you can search for and connect with potential roommates.

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. Conflicts will be resolved based on the agreed terms in that document. If conflicts persist, residents may seek mediation through the RGHS team.

A housing agreement is a binding agreement between Rice University (Housing and Dining Department, Housing Services) and the resident, outlining rights and responsibilities for both parties.

The standard housing agreement runs from August 12th to May 15th of the following year. Early move-in dates can be requested depending on availability.

Yes, your housing agreement includes winter break. You are financially responsible through the end of your term.

After the end of the housing agreement on May 15th, students may have the option to extend through July 15th, depending on availability.

No. We cannot store belongings for future residents. Any packages received before move-in will be returned to the sender.

No. All graduate housing buildings are smoke-free communities.

No pets are allowed in any RGSH facilities. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) approved by the Rice Disability Resource Center are permitted.

Yes. Please refer to your housing agreement for the specific limits. Residents must accompany their guests and ensure visitor parking permits are obtained when needed.

A shuttle service takes residents to and from campus every 15–20 minutes. You can track it through the bus tracker website or apps like TransLoc and RSystems.

Your rent includes internet, water, trash, recycling, maintenance, RUPD services, on-site RA staff, shuttle, IPTV/streaming, social events, and pest control. Electricity is not included and must be set up within 7 days of move-in.

Yes, all RGSH properties provide maintenance services.

We host various events like fall orientation, holiday parties, study breaks, and more to build community.

Yes! Follow us on Instagram:
• RGA: @gradapts
• RVA/RVT: @rvapts