What is the Rice Purity Test?
The Rice Purity Test is a classic 100-question survey that originated at Rice University in the 1920s. It was designed as a social icebreaker for incoming freshmen to gauge their life experiences compared to their peers. The test covers a wide range of topics, from innocent firsts like holding hands to more mature life events.
Today, it's a viral internet phenomenon used for fun, self-reflection, and bonding with friends. The final result is a "purity score" from 100 (most pure) to 0 (least pure), offering a humorous snapshot of one's life journey.
The History and Origin of the Official Rice Purity Test
Who made the Rice Purity Test? The test's origins trace back to Rice University around 1924. It wasn't created by the faculty, but rather by the students themselves. The original test was a survey passed among freshmen as a way to bond and compare life stories. Over the decades, the questions were updated to reflect changing social norms, evolving from a simple college tradition into the globally recognized online quiz it is today.
This version represents the modern, official list of 100 questions that has become a staple of internet culture, ensuring you get an authentic and recognizable Rice Purity Score.
How Does the Rice Purity Test Work?
Many people ask, "how does the Rice Purity Test work?" The scoring mechanism is simple and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how your score is calculated:
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Start at 100
Every person begins with a perfect score of 100.
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Answer 100 Questions
You will be presented with 100 questions about various life experiences. Simply check the box for each one you have done.
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Subtract One Point
For every question you answer "yes" to, one point is subtracted from your initial score.
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Get Your Final Score
The remaining number is your final Rice Purity Score. For example, if you checked 25 boxes, your score would be 100 - 25 = 75.
Rice Purity Test Score Meanings: What Your Result Says About You
What is a good Rice Purity Score? There’s no "good" or "bad" result—it all depends on your personal journey! However, scores generally fall into these categories: You can find more details on our score meanings page.
- 100-98: Angelic
- You are exceptionally innocent and have likely led a very sheltered life.
- 97-94: Mostly Pure
- You've had a few minor experiences, like a first kiss, but remain very innocent.
- 93-77: Average Purity
- This is a common range. You've had a typical amount of life experiences for your age.
- 76-45: Worldly
- You're not afraid of adventure and have a good collection of stories to tell.
- 44-9: Seasoned Veteran
- There isn't much you haven't seen or tried. You've lived a very full life.
- 8-0: No Stone Unturned
- You have experienced almost everything the test asks about. A true legend.