
2083 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648-3001, USA


Rider University holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring that it meets rigorous standards of quality and effectiveness in its academic programs and institutional operations. This accreditation is a key indicator of the university's commitment to maintaining a high level of educational excellence recognized regionally.
Rider University requires applicants to have completed high school or hold a General Educational Development (GED) credential. Submission of a secondary school record and a completed college program is mandatory, while a recommended secondary school rank and competencies can enhance the application. Recommendations from educators or professionals are also necessary. Although standardized test scores are not strictly required, the university recommends submitting TOEFL or other test scores when applicable.
The university does not have an open admission policy, nor does it accept dual credit, but it does grant credit for Advanced Placement (AP) courses. While a computer is not required for admission, it is available for lease. Prospective students must maintain a secondary school GPA as part of their application.
Regarding standardized testing performance, about 18% of enrolled students submitted SAT scores, with an average SAT score around 1160, placing students near the national median. Rider University's admitted students tend to perform very well on the ACT, with a mean score of 30, reflecting a high proficiency in this assessment, ranking in the top 10%. ACT score distribution shows that most enrolled students scored below 29, with a significant portion below 23.
The acceptance rate at Rider University stands at approximately 79%, indicating a moderately selective admissions environment. The number of applicants is average relative to other institutions, with roughly 9,000 individuals applying annually and about 7,200 admitted. Enrollment figures show around 800 students matriculating each year, with a slightly lower enrollment rate compared to admissions.
Rider University requires prospective undergraduate applicants to pay a nonrefundable application fee. This fee is necessary to process the application and is standard for most institutions. However, Rider University offers application fee waivers to eligible students who demonstrate financial need or meet certain criteria designed to promote access and equity. These waivers reduce financial barriers for applicants and support a diverse student body. Students interested in fee waivers should consult the university's admissions office or official website for specific eligibility requirements and the application process.
Rider University does not host its own ROTC program but participates as a cooperating host institution, allowing students to enroll in ROTC through affiliated units at partner schools. This arrangement enables prospective students to pursue military training and commissioning opportunities while completing their academic studies at Rider University.
Rider University permits transfer students to enroll during the fall and spring semesters, offering flexibility for those seeking to continue their education without waiting for a full academic year. The university maintains a moderately difficult admission standard for transfers, suggesting a competitive but accessible process for qualified candidates.
Transfer applicants can submit credits earned through CLEP (College Level Examination Program) in both subject-specific and general exams, as well as through DANTES testing, facilitating the recognition of prior learning and potentially accelerating degree completion.
The institution accepts transfer credits, helping students integrate previous coursework into their academic progress at Rider University. Additionally, letters of recommendation are welcomed as part of the application, providing transfer students the opportunity to support their candidacy with personal endorsements.
The university enforces an age limit of 10 years on transfer credits, which emphasizes the relevance and currency of accepted academic work.
Rider University offers a diverse array of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich the academic experience of its students. These programs allow participants to immerse themselves in different cultures while pursuing coursework that complements their major fields of study.
The university facilitates semester-long and summer study abroad options in various countries, providing flexibility depending on students' academic schedules and personal interests. Programs are structured to combine classroom learning with cultural activities, enhancing global awareness and intercultural competence.
Students can choose from faculty-led trips, which are typically shorter and focus on specific themes or disciplines, to exchange programs with partner institutions overseas. These experiences often include internships or service-learning components, giving participants practical exposure alongside academic study.
Rider University also supports customized study abroad plans, encouraging students to explore unique opportunities that align closely with their career goals and academic needs. Such flexibility fosters a tailored global education experience, accommodating a wide range of academic pursuits.
Median composite SAT score
1160Median composite ACT score
30Percent of students submitting ACT scores
2%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
18%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RecommendedOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring