All schools
2026-27 cycleTroy, NY

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is a private technological research university in Troy, New York. Founded in 1824, it is the oldest technological university in the English-speaking world, renowned for its research and academic programs in engineering, computer science, architecture, and interactive media.

Acceptance rate

63%

Undergrad enrollment

5,665

Test policy

Test optional

Application fee

$70

Application deadlines

RoundDeadline
Early DecisionEarly Decision INovember 1, 2026
Financial AidFinancial Aid Priority Filing (ED I)November 15, 2026
Early ActionEarly ActionDecember 1, 2026
Financial AidFinancial Aid Priority Filing (EA)December 15, 2026
Early Decision IIEarly Decision IIJanuary 6, 2027
Financial AidFinancial Aid Priority Filing (ED II)January 8, 2027
Regular DecisionRegular DecisionJanuary 15, 2027
Financial AidFinancial Aid Priority Filing (RD)January 31, 2027

Supplemental essay prompts

RequiredMajor choice

State your reasons for aspiring to a career in medicine.

RequiredMajor choice

State your reasons for choosing architecture as your profession.

RequiredMajor choice

Discuss your interests in the field of electronic arts, and state how this is reflected in your portfolio, if one has been submitted.

RequiredMajor choice

State your reasons for choosing the field of games and simulation arts and sciences, making reference to your portfolio if one has been submitted.

RequiredMajor choice

Describe your interest in the music major and your goals. Please include completed course work in music, private music instruction, musical performance and production experience, or completed independent projects.

Data gathered August 2026.