<p>It is quite tough to get merit aid at Rice. Rice is a tough school to get into, so it will be harder getting merit aid. However, 30% of incoming freshmen do get it, but you need to stand out in the admissions process. You don’t have to apply for FA to get merit aid… all students are automatically considered based on their application.</p>
<p>I didn’t get any need-based FA. </p>
<p>For more information, check out: [Rice</a> University | Undergraduate Admission: Home](<a href=“http://www.futureowls.rice.edu/futureowls/default.asp]Rice”>http://www.futureowls.rice.edu/futureowls/default.asp). Click the “Cost and Financial Aid” button when you go here.</p>
<p>I don’t think applying for FA as an international student will hurt you significantly. Contact the admissions office to see if they’re need blind with international students… there are merit scholarships awarded to outstanding international students (check out the financial aid webpage).</p>