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Rutgers University Acceptance Rate, SAT, ACT, GPA & Scholarships
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Getting into Rutgers University is a great opportunity for students who are looking for strong academics, research-driven programs, and a dynamic campus environment. Rutgers is moderately selective with an acceptance rate of around 65%, so applicants must present a strong profile. The university follows a holistic admissions process, considering SAT Exam, ACT, and GPA alongside extracurricular involvement, leadership, and personal statements. While Rutgers follows a test-optional policy, submitting competitive test scores—SAT (1240-1470) or ACT Exam (26-32)—can enhance an applicant’s chances. A solid GPA is also crucial, as the university values academic consistency and rigor.
Did You Know Facts About Rutgers University?
- One of the Oldest Universities – Rutgers was founded in 1766, making it the eighth-oldest higher education institution in the U.S.
- The Birthplace of College Football – Rutgers played the first-ever intercollegiate football game against Princeton in 1869.
- A Public Ivy – The university is recognized as a Public Ivy, offering Ivy League-level education at a public school price.
- Top-Ranked Business School – Rutgers Business School is one of the best in the nation, with strong corporate partnerships.
- Alumni Network – With over 500,000 alumni, Rutgers has one of the largest and most influential alumni networks in the world.
Element |
Details |
College Name |
Rutgers University |
Location |
New Brunswick, New Jersey |
University Short Form |
Rutgers |
Acceptance Rate |
65% |
Early Action Deadline |
November 1 |
Regular Application Deadline |
December 1 |
FAFSA Deadline |
February 1 |
SAT Score Range |
1240-1470* |
ACT Score Range |
26-32* |
Rutgers University Admission Requirements
Rutgers University selects students based on academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular achievements. While strong SAT/ACT scores and a high GPA increase the likelihood of admission, the university also values diversity and holistic qualities in its applicants.
Requirement |
Details |
Application Platforms |
Common Application, Coalition Application |
SAT Score Range |
1240–1470 (middle 50%) |
ACT Score Range |
26–32 |
GPA Requirement |
Typically 3.7 or higher |
Application Components |
Letters of Recommendation, Extracurricular Activities, Personal Statement/Essay |
Application Fee |
$70 |
Also, Get to Know How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges?
Applicants with strong SAT, ACT scores, and a high GPA have a competitive edge in Rutgers University's selective admissions process. However, numbers alone aren’t enough—Rutgers looks for well-rounded students who demonstrate leadership, passion for their field, and active involvement in extracurricular activities. A compelling application goes beyond academics, showcasing a candidate’s dedication, achievements, and unique strengths through a holistic review process.
Rutgers University SAT Score Requirements
Although Rutgers University follows a test-optional policy, submitting a strong SAT score can make your application more competitive. High scores in the Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (EBRW) and SAT Math sections demonstrate academic excellence and preparedness for Rutgers’ rigorous programs. While not required, a solid Rutgers University SAT score can enhance your chances of admission and set you apart from other applicants.
Average Rutgers University SAT Scores for Admitted Students
Scoring well on the SAT can boost your chances of admission to Rutgers University, even though the school follows a test-optional policy. Below is a breakdown of the average SAT scores for admitted students at Rutgers.
Section |
Average |
25th Percentile |
75th Percentile |
Math |
640 |
600 |
700 |
Reading + Writing |
650 |
620 |
690 |
Composite |
1360 |
1240 |
1470 |
Also, Get to Know What is a Good SAT Score for Ivy League Schools.
Rutgers University SAT Score Distribution
Percentile |
SAT Score |
25th |
1240 |
75th |
1470 |
Students applying to competitive programs, such as Rutgers Business School or the School of Engineering, should aim for scores above the 75th percentile (1470) to increase their chances of admission.
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Rutgers University Colleges That Consider SAT Scores
Several colleges within Rutgers University still consider SAT scores, especially for highly competitive programs. Submitting high SAT scores may improve your chances of gaining admission to the following colleges:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- Rutgers Business School
- School of Engineering
- School of Environmental and Biological Sciences
- Mason Gross School of the Arts
- School of Nursing
Rutgers University ACT Score Requirements
When it comes to getting into Rutgers University, ACT scores definitely matter. Most students who get in score between 26 and 32, and the higher your score, the better your chances. While it’s not the only thing Rutgers looks at, a good ACT score can help you stand out in this competitive admissions process.
Average Rutgers University ACT Scores for Admitted Students
A strong ACT score can enhance your application to Rutgers University, even with its test-optional policy. Competitive applicants typically score within the upper percentiles (32). Below is a breakdown of the average ACT scores for admitted students.
ACT Percentile |
ACT Score Range |
25th Percentile |
26 |
50th Percentile (Median) |
29 |
75th Percentile |
32 |
While there is no official ACT cutoff, applicants with scores above 32 have a competitive edge, especially in STEM and Business programs.
Find out your ACT Scores using ACT Score Calculator!
Rutgers University GPA Requirement
GPA plays a crucial role in Rutgers University admissions. While there is no official minimum requirement, most admitted students demonstrate strong academic performance, typically maintaining a GPA of 3.7 or higher.
Average Rutgers University GPA of Admitted Students
Rutgers University considers GPA an essential factor in the admissions process. While there is no strict cutoff, most admitted students have a strong academic record, with GPAs typically ranging from 3.3 to 4.0+.
GPA Percentile |
GPA Range |
25th |
3.3 |
75th |
4.0+ |
Students with a lower GPA (below 3.5) may still be considered if they excel in SAT/ACT scores, extracurriculars, and leadership roles.
Rutgers University Acceptance Rate
With an acceptance rate of about 65%, Rutgers is moderately selective. Strong grades and test scores help, but they also consider extracurriculars, leadership, and personal experiences to get a full picture of each applicant.
Category |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
65% (Less Selective) |
Total Applicants |
43,347 |
Admitted |
28,326 |
Enrolled |
7,681 |
Despite a relatively high acceptance rate, strong academic credentials and a well-rounded application significantly improve an applicant's chances.
Rutgers University Scholarships
Rutgers offers a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships to help students afford their education. Some scholarships are automatically awarded, while others require separate applications.
Notable Scholarships at Rutgers University
- Presidential Scholarship – Full tuition for high-achieving students.
- Scarlet Scholarship – Merit-based award for outstanding academic performance.
- Rutgers First-Year Grant – Need-based financial aid.
- Honors College Scholarships – Competitive scholarships for Honors College students.
- Rutgers Out-of-State Scholarship – Financial assistance for non-New Jersey residents.
- Athletic Scholarships – Available for students excelling in sports.
- International Student Scholarships – Awards for outstanding international applicants.
Read ACT English Tips to Boost Your ACT English Scores!
Rutgers University Superscoring Policy
Both the SAT and ACT get superscored at Rutgers- that's a huge plus for applicants! In other words, instead of using a given test attempt, they use your best section scores from multiple attempts. This means you can put your best foot forward and boost your chances of getting in!
Conclusion
Admission into Rutgers University requires a strong academic record, competitive SAT/ACT scores, and an impressive GPA. However, the university does not solely rely on numbers—it values leadership, extracurricular involvement, and personal achievements. A well-rounded application, highlighting both academic and holistic strengths, will increase the chances of acceptance into this prestigious institution.
Which Colleges Require SAT?
Many prestigious colleges and universities in the U.S. require SAT scores as part of their admissions process. Below is a list of some of the top colleges and universities that use SAT scores for their admissions.
Category |
Colleges/Universities |
Ivy League Schools |
|
Public Research Universities |
University of California System (some campuses) |
National Universities |
|
Liberal Arts Colleges |
|
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Check Colleges Accepting Low ACT Score
College Name
ACT Score
SAT Score
15–19*
820–980*
16–21*
890–1080*
17–20*
860–1053*
15–21*
Not available*
16–20*
860–1062*
College Name |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
15–19* |
820–980* |
|
16–21* |
890–1080* |
|
17–20* |
860–1053* |
|
15–21* |
Not available* |
|
16–20* |
860–1062* |
Colleges That Accept 1200 Score In SAT
University
ACT Score
SAT Score
21–27*
940–1200*
16–25*
910–1150*
18–26*
910–1150*
18–24*
910–1120*
19–26*
950–1150*
21–28*
950–1180*
16–27*
925–1140*
17–24*
930–1175*
19–25*
950–1130*
20–27*
900–1150*
20–26*
1010–1200*
University |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
21–27* |
940–1200* |
|
16–25* |
910–1150* |
|
18–26* |
910–1150* |
|
18–24* |
910–1120* |
|
19–26* |
950–1150* |
|
21–28* |
950–1180* |
|
16–27* |
925–1140* |
|
17–24* |
930–1175* |
|
19–25* |
950–1130* |
|
20–27* |
900–1150* |
|
20–26* |
1010–1200* |
Rutgers University Admissions FAQs
Is Rutgers University hard to get into?
Rutgers has an acceptance rate of around 65%, making it moderately selective. While good grades and test scores help, the university also considers extracurricular activities, leadership, and personal achievements in its holistic admissions process.
What SAT and ACT scores do I need for Rutgers University?
Competitive applicants typically have an SAT score between 1240-1470 or an ACT score between 26-32. While Rutgers is test-optional, strong test scores can enhance an applicant’s chances of admission, especially for competitive programs.
Does Rutgers University have a minimum GPA requirement?
Rutgers does not have a strict minimum GPA, but most admitted students have a GPA of 3.7 or higher. Students with lower GPAs may still be considered if they demonstrate strong SAT/ACT scores, leadership, or exceptional extracurricular involvement.
Does Rutgers University superscore the SAT and ACT?
Yes, Rutgers follows a superscoring policy for both the SAT and ACT. This means they consider the highest section scores from multiple test attempts, allowing students to showcase their best possible scores.
Are there any merit-based scholarships available at Rutgers University?
Yes, Rutgers offers several merit-based scholarships, including the Presidential Scholarship, Scarlet Scholarship, and Honors College Scholarships. Some scholarships are awarded automatically, while others require separate applications.