It’s never too early to start thinking about attending Rutgers. Students in high school, and even middle school, can start exploring the wide variety of learning opportunities available at Rutgers at any time.
Path to Rutgers
Start thinking about preparing for Rutgers well before you begin filling out the admission application. Students can gain exposure to Rutgers and college-level academic work in many ways, including attending college-focused summer camps and future scholars programs, taking AP exams and college credit courses, or attending events hosted by the Rutgers community, to name a few.
High School Educational Requirements
In general, each school at Rutgers requires the completion of at least 16 high school academic courses. This coursework may include a required combination of English, math, science, and/or foreign language. High school education requirements can vary based on your major, school, and/or Rutgers locationyou plan to attend. Explore admissions requirements at our locations:
- Rutgers University–New Brunswick Requirements
- Rutgers University–Newark Requirements
- Rutgers University–Camden Requirements
Finding Your Purpose at Rutgers
Many high school students don’t know what they want to major in at college. In fact, many undergraduate students haven’t selected a major after their first year. It’s OK not to know what to major in. The first step is to apply and get admitted. Students who are still deciding what to major in should apply to the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences–Newark, or Camden College of Arts and Sciences. There are many opportunities to participate in exploratory programs and meet with advisers to help you home in on your academic interests and goals.
- Explore Undergraduate Areas of Interest
Admissions Criteria
The admissions team looks holistically at each applicant, which means we’re looking at more than just your numbers—because you are more than just a number.
Yes, your test scores and GPA are a factor, but so are your extracurricular activities, your personal essays, your talents, and the responsibilities and leadership you take on in your life. Your time spent in academic clubs, playing sports, learning an instrument or craft, and other extracurricular involvement and enriching personal experiences are all worth including somewhere in your application.
There are many schools and colleges across the three Rutgers University locations. Each has its own admissions requirements for high school coursework, ACT/SAT scores, GPA, etc. When you begin the admissions process you’ll be able to identify which schools to apply to by selecting your academic interests or preferred location.
- See Admissions Academic Profile
- See Schools and Colleges
Transferring to Rutgers
Whether you’re transferring in from another four-year university, or you’ve completed classes at a community college and now you’re ready to pursue the rest of your education here, there are several avenues to take you to where you want to be at Rutgers.
Due Dates for Transfer Applications:
October 1 - Spring Semester
February 1 - Fall Semester
- Learn about Transferring to Rutgers
- Learn about Attending Rutgers via Community College
Youth and Pre-College Programs
Pre-college programs enhance college awareness, provide extracurricular enrichment, and can give elementary, middle, and high school students a sense of college-level learning. Learn about the pre-college programs and camps available at Rutgers.
- K–12 Pre-College Programs
- Summer Scholars Program
- SAT and ACT Prep
Rutgers Future Scholars
Rutgers Future Scholars program offers first-generation, low-income, academically promising middle school students from Newark, New Brunswick, Camden, and Rahway, New Jersey, preparation for a college education. Starting in 8th grade, Rutgers Future Scholars take part in pre-college programming, events, support, and mentoring that lasts through high school and into university. Students who successfully complete the five-year program requirements will receive full tuition funding (through scholarships and federal grants) to Rutgers University.
- Learn More about Future Scholars
Rutgers at Your Community College
Through the Rutgers Statewide program, students have access to several undergraduate degree completion programs and one graduate degree program. All classes are led by Rutgers faculty. Many programs include online components, making it even easier for you to fulfill your degree requirements.
- Learn More about Rutgers Statewide
Rutgers for Veterans and Military-Affiliated Students
Veterans and military-affiliated students choose Rutgers for the same reasons many others do: the university's vast array of educational offerings, huge alumni network, and proximity to major job markets are all big benefits. But there are specific draws to Rutgers for military-affiliated students, as well.
- Learn why vets choose Rutgers
Join the Rutgers Community
Start your application or learn more about attending Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.
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Undergraduate Academics
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Admissions and Tuition
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The Rutgers Experience
