Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Rice Purity Test, how scoring works, and what your results mean.
Rice Purity Test FAQ
The Rice Purity Test is one of the most popular self-assessment quizzes on the internet. Whether you are about to take the test for the first time or just got your score and want to understand it better, this Rice Purity Test FAQ covers the most common questions. From how scoring works to what the average score is, you will find clear answers below.
About the Test
The Rice Purity Test is a 100-question self-assessment survey originally created by students at Rice University in Houston, Texas. It covers a range of life experiences from romance and dating to substances and legal encounters. Your score (0-100) reflects how many experiences you have not checked, with 100 being the most 'pure.'
The test was created at Rice University as an orientation tradition. Upperclassmen would give it to incoming freshmen as an icebreaker. Over the decades it spread to other campuses and eventually went viral online, becoming one of the internet's most well-known self-assessment quizzes.
No. While the test originated at Rice University, this website and the online versions of the test are independent projects. Rice University does not endorse, maintain, or have any official connection to online Rice Purity Test sites.
Your score equals the number of questions you did NOT check. If you check 30 out of 100 items, your score is 70. The score ranges from 0 (checked everything) to 100 (checked nothing). It is a simple count, not a weighted calculation.
There is no objectively 'good' or 'bad' score. The test is meant for self-reflection, not judgment. The average score for college students tends to fall between 55 and 75. A higher score means fewer checked experiences, and a lower score means more. Neither is better or worse.
Taking the Test
Most people complete the test in 3-5 minutes. There are 100 yes/no questions, and since you are reflecting on past experiences rather than solving problems, it goes quickly. There is no time limit.
Yes. The test is only meaningful if you answer honestly. Since the test is completely anonymous and no data is stored, there is no reason to inflate or deflate your responses. Be truthful with yourself for the most accurate reflection.
Absolutely. You can retake the test as many times as you like. Since we do not store your answers, each session starts fresh. Many people retake it periodically to see how their score has changed over time.
Yes, many people take it together as a social activity. You can compare scores and discuss experiences. Just remember that sharing is voluntary. Never pressure anyone to reveal their answers or score.
No. The Rice Purity Test is cumulative. Once you have had an experience, it stays checked. Your score can only stay the same or decrease as you accumulate more life experiences. The test is a retrospective log, not a snapshot of current behavior.
Understanding Results
Based on informal surveys across college campuses, the average score typically falls in the 55-75 range for college-age students. Younger test-takers tend to score higher (80-100), while older adults may score lower. Your score is personal and context-dependent.
Not at all. The Rice Purity Test is a lighthearted self-reflection tool, not a moral evaluation. A low score does not mean something is wrong with you, and a high score does not make you better than anyone else. Your experiences are your own.
No. The test is not a scientific instrument and was never designed to be one. It is a fun social tool for self-reflection and conversation. It does not measure personality, character, or worth. Treat it as entertainment, not a diagnostic.
No. All calculations happen entirely in your browser. We do not collect, store, or transmit your answers or score to any server. When you close or refresh the page, your responses are gone. Your privacy is fully protected.
The test covers a wide range of life experiences, including topics like sexual activity, substance use, and legal issues. These questions are part of the original test format and reflect the full spectrum of experiences college students may encounter. The content is intended for adults (18+).
Still have questions?
Take the test yourself and see what your score means.