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Application Process & Requirements
Application Deadlines
| Application Type | Application Deadline | Decision Notification | Candidate's Reply Date |
| Early Decision | November 15th | December 15th | February 15th Binding |
| Early Action | November 15th | December 15th | May 1st |
| Recommended Deadline For Admission and Scholarships (non-audition-based majors) | January 15th* | April 15th | May 1st |
| Recommended Deadline For Admission and Scholarships (audition-based majors) | March 13th | April 15th | May 1st |
*We are continuing to review new applications on a space available basis and to award scholarships to qualified new applicants as funds remain available. Apply Now!
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Early Decision and Early Action Candidates Early Decision & Early Action applicants for majors that require an audition must schedule the November audition date. If you are admitted through Early Decision or Early Action we will offer you an early estimate of financial aid.
Early Decision Option: Students not prepared to commit to the binding option should consider the Early Action Option. If accepted you will agree to enroll in Rider University, withdraw any applications submitted to other institutions, and submit your non-refundable tuition deposit by February 15, 2009.
Early Action Option: |
Application Procedures
To be considered for freshman admission, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Complete the application for admission. Rider encourages students to apply online.
- Submit your application, along with your $50 non-refundable application fee payable to Rider University's Office of Undergraduate Admission. You may pay your application fee online when you apply. (If mailing a check, please be sure your name and home phone number are clearly written on your check).
- Have your high school counseling office send us your official high school transcript, including a list of courses in progress if you are still enrolled in high school. If you have earned a General Equivalency Diploma (GED), please arrange to have an official copy of your diploma (.pdf) and test scores sent to Rider's Office of Admission.
- Submit a school counselor recommendation letter and a second recommendation from a faculty member, employer, coach, or another individual who knows you well and can describe your academic potential and personal characteristics.
- Have your official SAT I and/or ACT (including the Writing component) scores submitted to Rider directly from the testing agency using the codes below:
Rider University's codes:
SAT I: 2758
ACT: 2590
Note: You are not required to submit the SAT or ACT if it has been more than one year since you graduated from high school. - Submit 150-word essay.
- Complete and submit the Westminster Student Supplement if applying for fine arts programs. The supplement will be mailed to you after your application is processed.
Rider receives about 7000 applications each year
– Can you make the grade?
Admission Requirements
Admission to Rider is competitive, based on the number and quality of applications received and the number of seats in available in the entering class. To qualify for freshman admission, minimally you must successfully complete 16 academic units in high school, including:
- Four years of English
- At least three years of mathematics, including Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry
- Remaining credits in any of the following areas: Science, Social Sciences, and Foreign Language
Rider’s Committee on Admission will review your entire application file. The Committee makes admission decisions in consultation with the Director of Undergraduate Admission. Their comprehensive review will include your:
- application
- high school transcript, including course selection, grades, GPA, and class standing
- letters of recommendation
- essay
- extracurricular activities including sports, clubs, and service organizations
- individual accomplishments
- audition results (if required)
Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) for New Jersey Residents
The EOP Program is a state-sponsored program that provides access to college for qualified educationally and financially disadvantaged New Jersey residents. To be eligible for admission through EOP you must:
- Be a US citizen or permanent resident
- Be a New Jersey resident for at least one year
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Be admissible to Rider University
- Meet state mandated income guidelines
- Show a historical background of financial and educational disadvantage
- Enroll as a full-time student
- Be prepared to enroll in the EOP Summer Program preceding your freshman year
Download the EOP Questionniare








