Getting Ready for 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.

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 location you plan to attend. Explore admissions requirements at our locations:

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.