Steps to Apply

1. Complete the Application
   The application may be completed online or downloaded and completed on paper. Apply Now.
   
   
2. Pay the Fee
   The $50 application fee is non-refundable and may be paid online via credit card or by check.
   We accept a Fee Waiver Request if signed by your guidance counselor.
   
   
3. Submit Your Transcript(s)
   Submit official transcripts from your high school and for any college work you may have completed while you were in high school
   If you earned a General Equivalency Diploma (GED), request that an official copy of your diploma and test scores be sent to Rider University’s Office of Admissions
   International students should follow the special instructions for high school transcripts.
   
   
4. Letter of Recommendation
   This letter should come from a school counselor or an individual who can describe your academic potential and personal characteristics
   Applicants to the Westminster College of the Arts must submit at least one recommendation from a teacher, instructor or coach in an arts-related field
   Download General Recommendation Form (.pdf)
   Download Counselor Recommendation Form (pdf)
   
   
5. Submit Your Test Scores
   Submit scores for all tests taken:
   SAT I (Code 2758)
   ACT (Code 2590)
   Scores submitted must include the writing section.
   Rider will use only your best scores from each section; for the SAT, this may be components from different testing dates.
   
   
6. Submit the Essay
   Choose one of the Common Application essay topics or write an essay on one of the topics below.
   
   
7. Auditions
   Westminster College of the Arts requires an audition as part of the application process.
   Program specific information and dates of campus auditions, scholarship competitions and regional auditions can be found in the auditions section.

Application Deadlines

Scholarship eligibility is determined at the same time we review your complete application. Rider practices rolling admissions; once your application is complete, you will be notified of your decision.

View Scholarships and Financial Aid for Freshmen

Application Review

Rider University welcomes students with a variety of academic backgrounds. When reviewing an application for admission, the Undergraduate Admission Office takes a holistic approach by assessing your academic performance, letters of recommendation, and your admission essay. Once the committee has reviewed the entirety of the student's academic experience, an admission decision will be made.

Admissions Mailing Address

Mail all application materials to:
Rider University
Office of Undergraduate Admission
2083 Lawrenceville Road
Lawrenceville, NJ, USA 08648-3099