Transfer Admission FAQs
Answers to frequently asked questions.
Why should I transfer to Rider University?
Rider University’s academic programs are unparalleled and Rider was recently honored to be included in U.S. News & World Report’s Edition of America’s Best Colleges and among the top 366 of all colleges nationwide in the Princeton Review. Also, Rider is large enough that you will enjoy the resources of a large university, yet small enough that you will not get lost in the crowd. Most importantly, our students choose Rider because they are comfortable here; they find this to be the perfect environment in which they can excel.
Who should I contact at Rider?
A transfer counselor is available to speak with you about Rider and to assist you in the admissions process. To schedule an appointment, simply call 609-896-5042 or send e-mail to admissions@rider.edu
How can I see how my credits will transfer?
As a transfer student, you are anxious to see how the courses you have taken will fit into your program at Rider. There are two easy ways to find out. If you have taken courses at a community college in New Jersey, simply log onto the NJ Transfer website at http://www.njtransfer.org/ to access credit equivalencies. You can also receive a no-obligation unofficial credit evaluation through the academic department. To do, simply contact the transfer counselor at 609-896-5042 or admissions@rider.edu.
How many credits can I transfer to Rider?
A student transferring from an accredited two-year institution may receive up to 60 credits, provided these credits are compatible with Rider degree requirements. Students transferring from a four-year institution may transfer up to 90 credits (maximum 75 in business).
What is there to do on campus?
As you probably already know, college is what you make of it. With over 100 student clubs and organizations, there is something to fit your interests. Educational, social and recreational events are held through the year and there is also an opportunity to participate in several intramural sports.
What do I need to do to apply?
Applying to Rider as a transfer student is very simple. You will submit the application for admission; the $50 application fee, an essay (explained on the application); official transcripts for all colleges/universities attended; official high school transcripts (if you have less than 30 college credits at the time you apply); and two letters of recommendation. As soon as your application is complete, an admission decision can be made.
What are the criteria for acceptance?
You need to have a minimum cumulative g.p.a. to be considered for admission to Rider as a transfer student. For the education majors, you need to have a minimum cumulative g.p.a. of 2.75.
How can I afford Rider?
While financing a college education is a concern, you should first find an institution that is the right fit for you and will provide you with the experience you seek. Once you do that, then consider the financial issue. The tuition “price tag” of a high quality private institution like Rider may seem daunting. However, when you factor in the grants and loans you may be eligible for as well as institutional monies or transfer scholarships you may receive, you may find out that the actual cost of a Rider education is comparable to another institution of the same caliber.
Are there scholarships available for transfer students?
Academic transfer scholarships ranging from $3000-8000 per year, and renewable for three years, are available to those students who come to Rider with a minimum cumulative g.p.a. of 2.50. Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) members are awarded an addtional $1500 per year scholarship. Students who are graduates of a Rider partner community college automatically qualify for a $1000 community college scholarship. These scholarships are not mutally exclusive. If you meet the requirments, you will be awarded each scholarship. There is no need to apply separately, however you must submit all application materials by certain deadlines (April 1 for fall semester; November 15 for spring) in order to be considered for a scholarship. For questions about transfer scholarships, please contact Rider's Assistant Director of Transfer Admission, Kate Martin at ckmartin@rider.edu, or 609-896-5042.
How can I arrange a visit to campus?
Campus tours are available during the week and on Saturday mornings. If you want something more than a campus tour, consider the Ambassador program. The Ambassador program provides you the opportunity to sit in on classes, meet and spend time with current Rider students, ask questions of faculty members and the transfer counselor and, of course, take a campus tour. For more information contact 609-896-5042 or e-mail us at admissions@rider.edu.
When can I register for classes?
Once you have been accepted to Rider and paid your tuition deposit (the deposit form will come in your acceptance packet), you are welcome to register for courses (provided registration is available at that time of year). To do so, simply contact the academic department to schedule an appointment. You may want to register at the special Transfer Orientation, which is held right before the start of the semester. You will receive orientation information in the mail. Above all, relax. You will get the classes you need.
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