About the Rice Purity Test
Uncover the history, purpose, and story behind the viral 100-question innocence test.
The Official History of the Test
The Rice Purity Test first appeared at Rice University in Houston, Texas, during the 1980s. It was created not as a formal psychological evaluation, but as a lighthearted survey and bonding tool for new students during orientation week. The original 100-question quiz was passed around on paper, allowing freshmen to anonymously compare their life experiences.
Over the years, the test spread to other universities and eventually found its way online in the early 2000s. With the rise of social media, it evolved into a viral phenomenon, shared on platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram. While the questions have been updated to reflect modern social norms, the core concept remains the same: a fun, unofficial measure of one's "innocence" or life experiences.
Purpose and Intent
The primary purpose of the Rice Purity Test is entertainment. It is designed to be an icebreaker and a tool for self-reflection. It is not a scientific instrument and holds no real-world value in judging a person's character or morality. The "purity" score is simply a fun metric based on a specific set of 100 questions, and it should not be taken seriously.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the official Rice Purity Test?
The "official" test refers to the 100-question version that is based on the original format from Rice University. While many variations exist, the 100-question structure is considered the standard. Our website uses this official format.
How is the rice purity score calculated?
The calculation is simple. You start with a score of 100. For every question you answer "Yes" to, one point is subtracted. The final number is your rice purity score. A higher score means you answered "No" more often, indicating fewer of the experiences listed.
Is a high or low score better?
There is no "good" or "bad" score. A high score (e.g., 90-100) suggests a more sheltered life with fewer of the listed experiences, while a low score (e.g., below 50) indicates a wider range of life experiences. Neither is inherently better; they are just different reflections of a person's journey.
Is this test anonymous?
Yes, 100%. This website does not collect, store, or share any of your answers or your final score. The entire process happens in your browser, and your data is gone the moment you close the page.
What do the different rice purity scores mean?
Scores are typically grouped into brackets. For example, a score of 95+ is considered very "pure," while a score of 70 might be average for a college student. For a full breakdown, please see our dedicated scores page.