History of the Rice Purity Test
A 100-year journey from college tradition to internet phenomenon.
Origin
The Rice Purity Test was created at Rice University in Houston, Texas in 1924. It was designed as a way for incoming freshmen to bond with each other and to track their personal growth during their college years.
Purpose
The test was never meant to judge or shame anyone. Its original purpose was to create conversation starters and help students realize that everyone has different life experiences.
Timeline
1924
Rice Purity Test created at Rice University, Houston, Texas
Originally designed for incoming freshmen to bond and track their college experiences.
1930s-1980s
Test remains a Rice University tradition
Passed down through generations of students, administered on paper.
1990s
Test spreads to other universities
Other colleges create their own versions, maintaining the core concept.
2000s
Internet adoption begins
The test moves online, allowing wider access beyond campus.
2010s
Social media makes it viral
Platforms like Facebook and Twitter turn it into a shareable phenomenon.
2020s
TikTok and Gen Z revival
New generation discovers the test, creating memes and challenges around scores.
2024
100th anniversary
The Rice Purity Test celebrates a century of existence.
2026
Updated questions for modern life
New version includes questions about streaming, social media, and modern dating.
Fun Facts
🎓
Rice University is a private research university founded in 1912
📝
The original test was administered on paper during orientation week
🌍
Millions of people worldwide have now taken some version of the test
📱
The test went viral on TikTok in 2020, reaching a new generation