Rutgers New Brunswick: Tough Admissions?

Rutgers University New Brunswick is a moderately competitive school to get into. The acceptance rate at Rutgers is around 66-67%, the seventh lowest in New Jersey. For the 2019-2020 admissions cycle, Rutgers University received 41,263 applicants, of which 27,618 were accepted. The average GPA of students admitted to Rutgers is around 3.3-4.1, and the average SAT score is 1380. The university considers standardised test scores very important, while extracurricular activities are seen as important.

Rutgers University New Brunswick acceptance rate

Rutgers University New Brunswick is a public research university in New Jersey with three distinct campuses in New Brunswick, Camden, and Newark. The New Brunswick campus is the oldest and main campus, and it offers over 100 undergraduate majors and more than 200 graduate programs. The university has a lively campus life, with over 600 student organisations and numerous sports teams, clubs, and activities.

The acceptance rate for Rutgers University New Brunswick is between 61% and 68%. The university received over 41,000 applications in the 2019-2020 admissions cycle and accepted over 27,000 students. The average GPA for accepted students is between 3.42 and 3.78, and the average SAT score is between 1210 and 1430. The average ACT score for accepted students is between 25 and 32.

Rutgers University New Brunswick has a competitive selection process, and most accepted students have a higher-than-average high school GPA and score in the top percentiles on standardised tests. The university considers applicants' standardised test scores, extracurricular activities, and character/personal qualities as important factors in the admissions process.

To improve your chances of getting into Rutgers University New Brunswick, it is recommended to aim for high grades in challenging classes, report strong SAT or ACT scores, cultivate a strong portfolio of extracurricular activities, and write engaging application essays.

Average GPA and test scores

Rutgers University New Brunswick is a moderately competitive school with an acceptance rate of around 66%. The average GPA for admitted students is around 3.3 on a 4.0 scale, which corresponds to "B+" grades. However, some sources state that the average GPA is between 3.42 and 3.78. To be a competitive applicant, you should aim for a GPA of 3.47 or higher. Most students admitted to Rutgers University New Brunswick graduate in the top quarter of their high school class.

For the SAT, a score of 1380 or above is considered competitive, with the middle 50% of accepted students scoring between 1270 and 1480. The average SAT score is around 1380 out of 1600, and students who are accepted typically score in the top 15% of all SAT test-takers.

For the ACT, a score of 30 is considered competitive, with the middle 50% of accepted students scoring between 28 and 33. The average ACT score for admitted students is around 30, and a score of 26 is typically the minimum required for admission.

It is important to note that Rutgers University New Brunswick is a test-optional college, and extra focus will be placed on your GPA when the school considers your application.

Application requirements

Rutgers University--New Brunswick has an acceptance rate of 66-67%, making it an unselective school. The application deadline is rolling, and Rutgers welcomes applications from international students.

For the 2019-2020 admissions cycle, Rutgers University at its main New Brunswick campus received 41,263 applicants, of which 27,618 were accepted. The average GPA of newly enrolled students is 3.7-4.1, and 91% graduated in the top half of their high school class. While standardized test scores are usually required for applicants, they are optional for students applying for Spring or Fall 2022 admission. Of the students who enrolled in Fall 2020, the top 25% scored above 1410 on the SAT or a 32 on the ACT. Half of the applicants admitted who submitted test scores had an SAT score between 1270 and 1480 or an ACT score of 28-33.

To apply, you will need the following materials:

• A $70 non-refundable application fee (with the option to request a fee waiver)
• Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)
• SAT or ACT scores (optional for 2022 enrollment)
• GED Results (for students with a GED diploma/certificate)
• Extracurricular activities list

Optional materials include:

• Talent assessment for applicants to the Mason Gross School of the Arts
• English proficiency test score (for applicants whose secondary schooling has been outside the U.S. in a country where English is not the principal language)

How to improve your chances

Rutgers University, New Brunswick is a moderately competitive school to get into. The acceptance rate at Rutgers is around 66-67%, with 27,612 out of 41,654 applicants accepted for the 2019-2020 admissions cycle. The school ranks #16 in New Jersey for the highest average GPA.

Aim for High Grades

Rutgers typically attracts "B+" average high school students with an average GPA of around 3.3. Most incoming freshmen graduate in the top quarter of their high school class. To be a competitive candidate, aim for mostly A's and take advanced honours, AP, or IB classes to boost your overall GPA.

Standardised Test Scores

Although Rutgers is a test-optional college, submitting SAT or ACT scores above the average range can strengthen your application. The average SAT score is 1380 out of 1600, and the average ACT score is 30. A higher test score can make up for a lower GPA.

Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities are an important way to stand out from other candidates. Rutgers is interested in accomplishments that demonstrate academic talents and abilities, as well as leadership and awards. Aim for a mix of Tier 1 and Tier 2 activities, which show high levels of achievement and dedication.

Write Engaging Essays

Rutgers requires a 3800-character response to one of their short essay prompts. This is your chance to showcase your strengths, character, and written eloquence. A well-written essay can make your application memorable and help admissions officers form a better idea of who you are.

Application Requirements

To apply, you will need a $70 non-refundable application fee (with an option to request a waiver), a self-reported academic record, and SAT or ACT scores (optional for 2022 enrollment). GED results are required for students with a GED diploma/certificate.

Early Action

Rutgers does not have a binding early decision application option, but it does offer a non-binding early action option. Applying early can increase your chances of acceptance, especially if you have a strong academic record and test scores.

The different campuses

Rutgers University has three campuses in New Jersey: New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden. The New Brunswick Campus is the largest and original site of the university. It is composed of five smaller campuses: Busch, College Avenue, Cook, Douglass, and Livingston. The Busch Campus is home to Rutgers' high-tech and health schools, SHI Stadium, and the university's most comprehensive gym. The College Avenue Campus features historical and architectural marvels, including an Honors College that houses 500 top students. The Cook Campus offers a tranquil setting with green spaces and a working organic farm. The Douglass Campus boasts colonial architecture and is home to the Global Village living-learning communities. The Livingston Campus is known for its modern amenities, including a movie theatre, sports arena, and solar array.

The Newark Campus, originally the University of Newark, consists of eight undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. It offers a range of programmes, including the School of Criminal Justice, the Graduate School, and the School of Nursing. The Camden Campus, formerly the College of South Jersey and South Jersey Law School, consists of six schools, including the Rutgers School of Business–Camden and the Camden location of the Rutgers Law School.

Frequently asked questions