How to Apply - For First-Year (Freshman) Students

First-year students applying to Rider should follow the application steps, deadlines, and academic requirements below.

Steps to Apply

1. COMPLETE THE UNDERGRADUATE APPLICATION

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 school counselor. Students attending an on campus visit will receive a fee waiver. 


3. SUBMIT YOUR TRANSCRIPTS
   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.
    
5. SUBMIT YOUR TEST SCORES
   If you are not applying as a "Test Optional" applicant, submit scores for all tests taken:
   SAT I (Code 2758)
   ACT (Code 2590)
   Rider does not require the optional essay/writing sections on the SAT or ACT.
   Superscoring: Rider will use only your best scores from each section; for the SAT & ACT, this may be components from different testing dates. Have you already been accepted through our "Test Optional" program?  If so, we strongly recommend that you send us your test scores. Your scores may be used for course placement, but will not affect your admission or scholarship. 
    
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 for many of its majors. Program specific information and dates of campus auditions, scholarship competitions and regional auditions can be found in the auditions section.
    
8. CHECK YOUR STATUS
   You can follow the status of your application and receipt of required credentials on your "Be-A-Bronc Applicant Dashboard".  After we receive your application, we will send you a link and your login credentials.

Application Deadlines

Apply today.

*Students applying for early action in majors that require an audition should plan to complete their audition in December. The early action option is not available to Musical Theatre majors, however, Musical Theatre Applicants wishing to audition in December (including all who wish to be considered for the Trustee Scholarship) should apply by November 1.

**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, as well as your activities, talents and leadership. We encourage you to complete your application thoroughly and thoughtfully. 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

First-year College of Continuing Studies students (Adult learners) should visit the College of Continuing Studies Website for application information specific to them.