Posted on November 10, 2025 | 10 min read
One of the biggest questions about the Rice Purity Test is whether it's better to have a high score or a low score. The answer might surprise you: neither is inherently "better." But understanding the differences can help you interpret your results and those of others.
Let's break down what high and low scores really mean, dispel common misconceptions, and explore the nuances between the two extremes.
Defining High vs. Low Scores
First, let's establish what we mean by "high" and "low" scores:
High Scores (70-100)
- 90-100: Very high
- 80-89: High
- 70-79: Above average
Indicates fewer life experiences covered by the test
Low Scores (0-50)
- 40-50: Below average
- 25-39: Low
- 0-24: Very low
Indicates more extensive life experiences
The middle range (51-69) is considered average and represents the most common scores.
What High Scores Actually Mean
The Reality of High Scores
A high Rice Purity Score indicates you haven't done many of the activities listed on the test. This could mean:
- Young Age: You simply haven't had time to accumulate experiences
- Different Priorities: You've focused on other aspects of life (academics, sports, hobbies)
- Strong Values: You've chosen to avoid certain activities based on personal beliefs
- Limited Opportunities: You haven't been in situations where these experiences would occur
- Cautious Approach: You prefer to move slowly and thoughtfully through life
Advantages of High Scores
Positive Aspects:
- No Regrets: You haven't done things you might later wish you hadn't
- Clean Slate: Less baggage or complicated history to navigate
- Safety: You've avoided potentially risky situations
- Focus: Energy directed toward other pursuits
- Self-Control: Demonstrates ability to resist peer pressure
- Alignment with Values: Living according to your principles
Challenges of High Scores
Potential Drawbacks:
- Social Pressure: Might feel judged as "inexperienced" or "boring"
- FOMO: Fear of missing out on experiences friends are having
- Curiosity: Wondering what you're missing
- Difficulty Relating: Hard to connect with more experienced peers on certain topics
- Rushing Later: Some people overcompensate by trying everything at once later
What Low Scores Actually Mean
The Reality of Low Scores
A low Rice Purity Score indicates you've had many of the experiences listed on the test. This could mean:
- More Life Experience: You've been through more situations
- Adventurous Spirit: You're willing to try new things
- Older Age: You've had more time to accumulate experiences
- Active Social Life: You're often in situations where these experiences occur
- Less Risk-Averse: You're comfortable pushing boundaries
Advantages of Low Scores
Positive Aspects:
- Life Experience: You've learned from diverse situations
- Self-Knowledge: You know what you like and don't like
- Interesting Stories: You have tales to tell
- Worldly Perspective: Understanding of different lifestyles
- Less Naive: Realistic view of life and people
- Non-Judgmental: Less likely to judge others for their choices
Challenges of Low Scores
Potential Drawbacks:
- Possible Regrets: May have done things you wish you hadn't
- Complicated Past: More history to navigate in relationships
- Judgment from Others: Some people may view you as "too wild"
- Safety Concerns: May have taken risks with consequences
- Difficulty Relating: Hard to connect with less experienced people
- Cynicism: Might be more jaded about certain experiences
Common Misconceptions
Myths About High Scores
❌ Myth: "High scores mean you're boring or lame"
✓ Reality: High scores simply mean different experiences and priorities. Many interesting, accomplished people have high scores.
❌ Myth: "You're missing out on life with a high score"
✓ Reality: There are infinite ways to live a fulfilling life. Not doing certain activities doesn't mean you're missing out.
❌ Myth: "High scores mean you're immature"
✓ Reality: Maturity isn't measured by experiences but by how you handle life and treat others.
Myths About Low Scores
❌ Myth: "Low scores mean you're cool or mature"
✓ Reality: Experience doesn't automatically equal wisdom or coolness. Some people with low scores made poor choices.
❌ Myth: "Low scores mean you're reckless or bad"
✓ Reality: Many people with low scores made safe, thoughtful choices and simply lived life fully.
❌ Myth: "You should try to lower your score"
✓ Reality: Never do things just to change a test score. Experience life authentically, not performatively.
The Age Factor
One crucial aspect often overlooked is how age affects score interpretation:
High Scores at Different Ages
- Age 16 with 95: Completely normal and expected
- Age 21 with 95: Unusual but not concerning—just different lifestyle
- Age 26 with 95: Very rare—indicates highly sheltered or deliberate choices
Low Scores at Different Ages
- Age 16 with 35: Concerning—possibly engaging in risky behavior too young
- Age 21 with 35: On the adventurous side but not unusual for active college life
- Age 26 with 35: Fairly normal—accumulated experiences over time
High Score vs. Low Score: Direct Comparison
| Aspect | High Score | Low Score |
|---|---|---|
| Life Experience | Limited in test categories | Extensive in test categories |
| Typical Age | Younger or sheltered | Older or adventurous |
| Social Perception | "Innocent" or "pure" | "Experienced" or "worldly" |
| Risk Level | Lower past risk exposure | Higher past risk exposure |
| Self-Knowledge | Still discovering preferences | Better understanding of likes/dislikes |
| Potential Regrets | Wondering "what if?" | May regret specific choices |
| Judgment Risk | Seen as "inexperienced" | Seen as "too wild" |
The Middle Ground
Interestingly, most people fall in the middle range (50-70), which combines aspects of both extremes:
- Balanced Experience: Tried various things without going to extremes
- Less Judgment: Not judged as too innocent or too wild
- Relatable: Can connect with people across the spectrum
- Moderate Risk: Some experiences but maintained boundaries
- Growing Self-Knowledge: Learning through measured exploration
Which Is "Better"?
The truth is: neither is inherently better. What matters is:
What Actually Matters:
- Are you making safe choices? Safety and consent are paramount
- Are you being authentic? Living according to your values, not others' expectations
- Are you learning and growing? Experiences should teach you about yourself
- Are you respecting others? Your choices shouldn't harm people
- Are you happy? Satisfaction with your life path is what counts
How to Interpret Your Score in Context
Instead of worrying whether your score is high or low, ask yourself:
- Am I comfortable with the experiences I've had?
- Do I feel pressured to change my score to fit in?
- Have I made decisions I'm proud of?
- Am I living authentically?
- Do I respect my own boundaries?
If you can answer yes to most of these questions, your score—whether high, low, or in between—is exactly right for you.
Final Thoughts
The Rice Purity Test shouldn't be viewed as a competition where low scores win or high scores indicate superiority. It's simply a snapshot of your life experiences at this particular moment.
Both high and low scores have their own advantages, challenges, and contexts. What matters isn't the number itself, but what it represents about your journey and whether you're living in a way that aligns with your values and brings you fulfillment.
Remember: your worth isn't determined by a test score. Whether you're a 95 or a 25, you're on your own unique path, and that's exactly as it should be.
Discover Your Score
Ready to see where you fall on the spectrum? Take the test and remember—there's no wrong score!
Take the Rice Purity Test