
420 South Main Street, Nashua, NH 03060, USA


Rivier University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation affirms that the university meets established standards of quality in its academic programs, faculty qualifications, and student services. Such recognition is essential for ensuring that the education provided is credible and valued by employers and other institutions.
The university also holds specialized accreditations for certain professional programs. For example, its nursing programs have received accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), which is crucial for students seeking licensure and professional credibility in healthcare fields. Additionally, Rivier University's education programs are approved by the relevant state education authorities, aligning with standards necessary for teacher certification.
These accreditations collectively demonstrate that Rivier University maintains a commitment to academic rigor and continuous improvement, factors prospective students should consider when evaluating the institution for their higher education goals.
Rivier University requires prospective students to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or equivalent. A secondary school record and a minimum GPA are necessary, while secondary school rank is suggested but not mandatory. Students must have completed a college preparatory program and provide recommendations as part of their application package.
Applicants are required to submit TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency. While the university does not mandate admissions test scores, it recommends submitting them, including other standardized exams when applicable. The institution does not follow an open admission policy, indicating selective entry based on the outlined criteria. Dual credit programs are not accepted, but the university does recognize college and Advanced Placement (AP) credits for transfer or advanced standing.
The acceptance rate at Rivier University stands at approximately 82%, reflecting a relatively accessible admissions process. Approximately 11% of enrolled students submit ACT scores, with most falling between 17 and 23. This data suggests that standardized test submissions supplement but do not dominate admissions decisions. The number of applicants and admissions is moderate, positioning the university in the average range nationally for selectivity and enrollment.
Rivier University requires an application fee from prospective students as part of the admission process. This fee helps cover administrative costs associated with processing applications. However, the university offers fee waivers to eligible applicants to reduce financial barriers. These waivers are typically available to students who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria outlined by the admissions office. Applicants interested in obtaining a fee waiver must submit a formal request along with supporting documentation as specified by the university. This policy aims to ensure that qualified candidates are not deterred from applying due to application costs.
Rivier University does not host its own ROTC branch units. Prospective students interested in ROTC programs would need to participate through cooperating host institutions, as there are no ROTC units directly affiliated with Rivier University.
Transfer students considering Rivier University have the option to enroll in the fall or spring semesters. The university accepts credits from several standardized exams, including CLEP subject and general exams as well as DANTES tests, facilitating a smoother credit transfer process. Prospective transfer students can expect a moderately difficult admissions process. Additionally, the university considers recommendations as part of their evaluation for transfer applicants.
Rivier University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to broaden students' global perspectives and complement their academic programs. These programs include semester-long exchanges, short-term faculty-led trips, and summer immersion experiences in diverse international locations. Students can choose programs that align with their field of study, allowing them to earn credit while experiencing different cultures firsthand.
The university facilitates partnerships with institutions around the world, providing options in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. These partnerships enable students to engage in coursework abroad that integrates into their degree requirements, ensuring a seamless academic transition.
Additionally, Rivier University supports service-learning and internship programs abroad, which combine practical work experience with cultural exploration. This approach helps students develop professional skills in an international context while making meaningful contributions to host communities.
Faculty-led trips are typically organized during breaks or summer sessions and include guided tours, seminars, and cultural activities tailored to the academic focus of the program. These shorter programs are accessible to a wider range of students and offer a more structured introduction to studying abroad.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
11%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther 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
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
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