For Incoming First-Year Students (effective Fall 2025)
At Rider University, we are dedicated to providing an enriching and supportive living and learning environment for all students. To promote student success both inside and outside the classroom, Rider requires students to either commute from home or live on campus during their first two years of study, with limited exceptions.
This residency requirement is grounded in research demonstrating that students who live on campus during their first two years:
- Earn higher grades and are more likely to graduate on time.
- Build stronger relationships with peers, faculty, and staff.
- Engage more deeply in campus activities and leadership opportunities.
Important Notice for New Students:
Whether you intend to commute OR live on campus, you must notify Rider University of your living arrangements.
Please select an option below and follow the instructions carefully:
Option 1: Commute from Your Primary Residence:
- If you plan to live at home with a parent/legal guardian, you must complete the Two-Year Residency Requirement form in the housing application. This is a one-time form that confirms your intent to commute for both your first and second years. Visit the new student housing process for information on how to access the housing application through your myRider portal.
- Note: Commuting students must live at their primary residence. Living at other off-campus addresses is NOT permitted under this policy.
Option 2: Live in Campus Housing:
- If you are not commuting from your primary residence, you are required to live in one of Rider’s residence halls for your first two years as a student (freshman and sophomore years). On-campus living offers convenience, access to resources, and a vibrant community to support your transition to college life.
- To secure your place on campus, submit your housing deposit and complete the new student housing process. Participation in a meal plan is also required for all residential students.
Approved Residency Requirement exemptions:
- First-year students requesting a Residency Requirement waiver due to a disability, medical condition or other special needs must submit their documentation to the Office of Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS) and receive approval for accommodations. Students should complete the Two-Year Residency Requirement form within the housing application to formally request an exemption. If you plan to seek a waiver, please email Residence Life at [email protected] for further guidance.
- Transfer, continuing education, exchange and graduate students are exempt from this policy and not required to live on campus, but are encouraged to do so to enhance their academic experience.
Students found in violation of the residency requirement will be subject to penalties as part of Rider’s housing policy enforcement.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
If you have any questions or need assistance, contact [email protected] or 609-896-5057.