<p>I cannot address Rice per se, but some first-tier ED universities operate on the principle that YOU are responsible – utilizing the NPC – to ascertain if the institution is affordable, BEFORE you submit an ED application. Therefore, if you accurately and thoroughly complete the NPC process and the university does not provide the NPC-specified financial assistance/need-based grant, you are released from your ED commitment. However, if the school provides the NPC stipulated financial aid/grant and you renege (even if due to erroneously NPC information), that is an ED violation.</p>