Five benefits of transferring to Rider University from a community college

From a smooth transfer process to generous financial aid opportunities and personalized support services – here’s why Rider could be an excellent choice for you. 

As you transition from a community college to a four-year university, it's crucial to find the right fit to ensure continued academic success. At Rider, we offer accessible pathways that cater to transfer students and help them continue to move forward to achieve their educational goals.

Rider provides tailored support and guidance for adult transfer students, ensuring a smooth transition and a personalized approach to their educational journey. This includes academic advising, flexible scheduling options and resources to help adult learners balance their studies with other responsibilities.

Whether you have a clear plan or want to explore new interests, Rider can prepare you to move forward confidently. If you're considering transferring colleges, here are five reasons Rider may be the right choice.

1. Transfer credit benefits

At Rider, we simplify the transfer process by providing generous credit transfer options. Transfer applicants have the opportunity to bring a maximum amount of 60 credits from a community college and up to 90 transfer credits from a four-year institution.

If you are over the age of 25, applying as a continuing education student enables you to transfer up to 63 credits from a two-year institution and up to 90 credits from a four-year institution. Our transfer credit policies help you stay on track for graduation, reducing your time spent in the classroom so that you can save money and focus on achieving your career goals. 

Continuing Education students may also qualify for college credit based on their prior learning, which can make the transition even smoother. These experiences may include professional development courses, assumed new work responsibilities, on-the-job training, or military training. Our advisors will guide you through the process and recommend what prior learning options fit best based on your individualized experience and needs.

2. Seamless transfer process

One major benefit of transferring to Rider from a community college is our formal transfer agreements with several community colleges, ensuring a seamless transition for many students right from the start.

“I came across Rider University at the transfer fair at Mercer County Community College.  I ran into one of the transfer counselors there, inquired about the school and she answered all my questions,” says Stanford Knox ‘23. “Not only did all of my credits transfer over, but I was able to sign up for classes, get enrolled and start a semester early.”

Before applying, take advantage of our free, no-obligation transcript evaluation to see how your credits can be applied toward earning a Rider degree, regardless of where you are transferring from. The streamlined process ensures you can transition into your program of choice with confidence and minimal hassle. 

3. Generous scholarships and aid opportunities

Transferring to Rider means having access to several scholarships and financial aid opportunities. In fact, 99% of our students receive University-funded scholarships and financial aid. Specifically, we offer several scholarships for adult learners and traditional transfer students to help ease the financial burden of tuition. 

Additionally, our partnership with The State of New Jersey and the Some College, No Degree grant provides qualifying, new continuing education students with need-based funds for non-tuition/fee-related expenses such as childcare, transportation, technology and textbooks. Continuing education students will have access to this grant through August 2024.

4. Flexible learning pathways

We understand that education is not a one-size-fits-all model for our students, especially for adults who juggle work and family obligations, and come from varying backgrounds and academic experiences. With this in mind, we offer a range of convenient course formats to accommodate your schedule and learning preferences. 

This includes in-person day and evening classes, 100% online learning, or a hybrid format that allows you to learn on-campus and remotely. We also offer accelerated summer and winter courses. Additionally, through Rider’s online learning options, students can benefit from our flexible start dates in the fall, winter, spring or summer, the ability to study at any time and from any location and accelerated courses.  

5. Signature support programs

At Rider, we understand that adult learners require support and empowerment in ways that differ from traditional college students. Therefore, we strive to create an inclusive environment for all students, including adult learners, by providing comprehensive support services throughout their academic journey.

Our signature support services include:

• Rider's Student Navigation Office offers personalized support to all students, including adult learners, during their first year at Rider. Their services range from one-on-one coaching to help students navigate the transition and set goals, to educating them on the requirements for on-time graduation.
• The Academic Success Center provides free tutoring and other personalized academic support.
• Our Office of Career Development and Success offers career support and one-on-one coaching to help students prepare for their next step.
• The Counseling Center at Rider provides a broad range of support services to help support students' mental health and well-being.

Transferring to Rider University from a community college can open up a world of opportunities and lead to amazing outcomes. We’re committed to helping you succeed, with generous credit transfer policies, a seamless transfer process and ample support services tailored to your needs.