Educational Opportunity Program
Preparing for success
YOU WANT TO ATTEND COLLEGE, but you’re afraid that, even though you have the potential to succeed, you won’t be given the chance to prove it. The New Jersey Educational Fund (EOF) was established in 1968 to make college education accessible and affordable to motivated students who exhibit talent and a determination to be successful in college.
The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at Westminster College of the Arts at Rider University strives to aid students as they develop their skills as learners and as musicians. The program offers a full array of support services geared to assist students in attaining their academic goals. These services include:
- Financial aid awards toward tuition
- Support Services
- Comprehensive five-week pre-freshman summer program
- Academic, personal and career counseling
- Peer tutoring
- Academic advising
As a new EOP student, you will participate in a five-week summer program designed to strengthen the skills you will need to be successful in college. These include courses in writing, public speaking, music theory/vocal techniques and college survival and study skills.
You may qualify for EOP if:
- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- You have been a resident of New Jersey for at least one year
- You have a high school diploma or equivalent
- You show financial need by meeting state mandated guidelines
- You are planning to be a full-time student
Westminster offers seven programs leading to a Bachelor of Music degree, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Music degree, Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts, and a minor in Music Theater.
Applying to Westminster
File an application with the admissions office
- Complete an audition in your primary instrument (voice, piano, or organ)
- Submit a repertoire list
- Submit high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores
- Submit two reference letters
Applying for EOP
- Indicate your interest in EOP by checking the appropriate box on your admissions application
- Complete a Westminster EOP application and submit it to the EOP office
- Complete an EOP interview
- Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1
- Indicate Rider University (code #002628) on the FAFSA.
VISIT US
WE ENCOURAGE YOU to visit our campus, tour Westminster’s facilities, attend a choir rehearsal and discuss your future with a member of the EOP staff. We’d like to see you.
To speak with a member of the EOP staff, call the EOP office at: 609-921-7100 ext. 8220 or email wcceop@rider.edu.
EOP students share their experiences
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“EOP has really become my support group. The summer I spent in the program equipped me with so many tools that have helped me be a successful student. When I later became an EOP Peer Counselor, I was able to be a part of the same support group for the incoming freshman; it was a fulfilling experience.” - Brandon Brooks |
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"Whenever I’ve needed advice or to consult with someone, the EOP staff and students have been there to light my way.” - Tamam Ferreira |
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“With ongoing encouragement, EOP has given me an opportunity to achieve my goals and aspirations.” - Frankie Tin |
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“EOP continues to be an inexhaustible source of advice and support and has imbued me with a sense of perseverance and confidence.” |
| Evelyn J. Thomas Director Office: Taylor Hall B12 Phone: (609) 921-7100 x8220 Email: thomasev@rider.edu |
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| Janett A. Guthrie Administrative Associate Office: Taylor Hall B14 Phone: (609) 921-7100 x8220 Email: guthriej@rider.edu |
