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Apply Early Action by November 15
Benefits of applying early include early financial aid offers, priority scholarship consideration and free parking during your first year.
First-year students applying to Rider should follow the application steps and deadlines below.
Not a first-year student? Visit our how to apply page for transfer, continuing education, international and graduate application information.
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Common Application
Available for Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 applicants.
Who is considered a first-year student?
Apply as a first-year undergraduate student (freshman) if you will have graduated from an accredited high school or passed the GED examination before your anticipated date of enrollment (you may be considered for admission as a degree-seeking student) OR if you have completed or are in the process of completing fewer than 12 college credits by the time that you enroll at Rider.
During your college search, you're likely to come across different terminology that may be unfamiliar. View our glossary of terms to help get you started.
Please note, you should apply as a transfer student if you are under the age of 25 and have completed or are in the process of completing 12 college credits or more by the time you enroll at Rider. Follow the steps to apply as a transfer student.
Steps to apply
Application deadlines
Rider practices rolling admissions. Once your application is complete, you will be notified of your decision. Applications completed after the stated deadlines will be considered on a space-available basis.
Fall 2025 Semester - September Start Deadlines
*To be considered for the maximum amount of scholarships for which you are eligible, your application must be complete, including all required credentials. If you are applying to a major that requires an audition, auditions scheduled for an audition day after January 15 will not disqualify you from maximum scholarship consideration.
**Rider’s Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) is a state-sponsored program for New Jersey residents that offers eligible applicants financial assistance and academic support. Discover program benefits and requirements to determine your eligibility.
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.