Rider University: 84.1% Acceptance Rate

84.1%Acceptance

$38,900Tuition

3,192Students

63%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$62,208Earnings

Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

About Rider University

Rider University has built its reputation around two distinct strengths: business programs and the strong Westminster Choir College. The university enrolls 3,192 students on a suburban campus in New Jersey's capital region. Notable graduates include Jason Alexander from Seinfeld and Wenzel Fuchs, principal clarinetist of the Berlin Philharmonic. The acceptance rate of 84% makes Rider accessible to students with SAT scores averaging 1200.

The financial picture tells a story of affordability through aid. While sticker price reaches $57,130 annually, students typically pay $25,287 after financial assistance. Graduates earn a median of $62,208 ten years after graduation, making the typical debt load of $26,130 manageable. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay just $17,331 net price. About 60% of students take federal loans, with monthly payments averaging $277.

The student body reflects New Jersey's diversity, with 53% white students, 19% Hispanic, and 14% Black students. Three-quarters come from in-state. Rider competes in Division I athletics with 17 varsity sports and 449 student athletes. The 12:1 student-faculty ratio provides personal attention, contributing to an 82% retention rate. Nearly 96% of graduates find employment after graduation.

Academics & Faculty

Rider University operates as a full private institution best known for its strong business programs and the strong Westminster Choir College, which attracts serious music students from around the world. The 12:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention across all programs. Business majors benefit from hands-on learning opportunities and industry connections. The Westminster Choir College maintains an top reputation for vocal performance and music education. Students graduate at a 63% rate within six years. The university also offers solid programs in education, communications, and liberal arts. With 3,192 students, classes stay small enough for professors to know individual students well.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Full-Time Faculty: 48.5%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 64.8%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 63.3%
Retention Rate: 81.6%
Median Earnings (10 years): $62,208
Carnegie Classification: Master's University (Large)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Master	$79,473
Educational Administration and Supervision.	Master	$70,456
Accounting and Related Services.	Master	$68,834
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology.	Doctoral	$60,771
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.	Master	$55,964
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods.	Master	$53,894
Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations.	Bachelor	$52,107
Accounting and Related Services.	Bachelor	$52,107
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Bachelor	$51,899
Student Counseling and Personnel Services.	Master	$50,856

View all 100 programs →

Campus Life

The Lawrenceville campus sits on 280 acres about 45 minutes from both New York City and Philadelphia, giving students access to major internships and cultural events. With housing capacity for 2,409 students and total enrollment of 3,192, roughly three-quarters of students live on campus. You'll need both winter coats and sunscreen here, as New Jersey experiences four distinct seasons with snowy winters and humid summers.

The 12:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intimate academic environment where professors know their students by name. Westminster Choir College brings a strong performing arts presence to campus, with regular concerts and recitals that the broader student body attends. Business students often network through campus career fairs that attract recruiters from nearby metropolitan areas. With 17 varsity sports and 449 total athletes competing in Division I, Broncs games draw decent crowds, especially basketball. Weekend activities center around residence hall programming, trips to nearby Princeton or Trenton, and student organizations. The suburban setting means most social life happens on campus rather than in surrounding strip malls and chain restaurants.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Housing Capacity: 2,409 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1865

Campus Safety (2023)

24 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential
Domestic Violence	4	3
Arson	2	2
Burglary	3	1
Rape	2	2
Aggravated Assault	3	0
Stalking	2	0

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 24°–39°F
July Avg: 66°–86°F
Annual Precipitation: 45.6"
Annual Snowfall: 26.6"

Student Demographics

Most Rider students come from New Jersey, with three-quarters staying close to home for college. The student body reflects the school's dual identity as both a business-focused university and home to the strong Westminster Choir College. Women outnumber men by a significant margin, likely drawn to Rider's strong programs in education, arts, and communications. About one-third of students receive Pell Grants, indicating the school serves many first-generation college students from working-class families. The diverse mix includes substantial Latino and Black populations, making Rider more inclusive than many private institutions in the region.

Men: 43.0%
Women: 57.0%
White: 52.8%
Black: 13.9%
Hispanic: 19.4%
Asian: 4.7%
In-State Students: 75.0%
Pell Grant Recipients: 33.4%

Location

Rider University sits in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, just 10 miles northeast of Trenton and about 65 miles from both New York City and Philadelphia. The campus occupies a suburban setting in central New Jersey's corridor between major metropolitan areas. Three-quarters of students come from within New Jersey, drawn to the proximity to internships and job opportunities in nearby cities. The Lawrenceville area combines residential neighborhoods with easy access to Princeton University and the Delaware River valley. Students benefit from small-town safety with big-city accessibility via major highways and rail connections. Students considering colleges in New Jersey may also compare Rider University with similar schools in the region.

Address: Lawrenceville, New Jersey 08648-3099

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $62,208
Median Earnings (5 years): $60,862
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $42,200
Loan Repayment Rate: 71.1%
Monthly Loan Payment: $277/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $26,130

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Rider University?

Rider University accepts 84.13% of applicants with an average SAT score of 1200. The university takes a well-rounded approach to admissions, welcoming students who show potential for success in its strong business and performing arts programs.

How much does Rider University cost after financial aid?

The average net price at Rider University is $25,287, lower than the full tuition of $38,900. About 33% of students receive Pell Grants, and the university provides institutional grants averaging $26,336 to help make education affordable.

What is Rider University known for academically?

Rider University operates with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention in its well-known business programs and Westminster Choir College. The university has built a strong reputation for combining practical business education with strong performing arts training.

What are the career outcomes for Rider University graduates?

Rider University graduates earn a median salary of $62,208 ten years after graduation, with an employment rate of 95.5%. The university's 63% six-year graduation rate reflects its focus on helping students complete their degrees and enter successful careers.

Where is Rider University located and what is campus life like?

Rider University sits in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, housing 2,409 students in a suburban setting near Princeton. The campus hosts 17 NCAA Division I varsity sports teams called the Broncs, with 449 student-athletes competing in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference.

Does Rider University have famous alumni?

Rider University counts actor Jason Alexander from Seinfeld among its notable graduates, along with Wenzel Fuchs, principal clarinetist of the Berlin Philharmonic. These alumni reflect the university's dual strengths in entertainment and classical music through its Westminster Choir College.