If you’re reading this, you’re likely wondering if your kid has what it takes to get into Rutgers University. You’ve come to the right place: we’re going to answer all your admissions questions and more. But first, let’s learn what makes Rutgers University an unlikely contender in the elite college admissions game. 

About Rutgers University

Located in New Brunswick, Rutgers is the flagship university of New Jersey. With over 36,000 undergrads on campus, Rutgers is a large school that boasts an impressive, impactful research output. The school offers over 150 majors with a strong pharmacy program, urban planning major, and various engineering programs. 

With an acceptance rate of 41%, Rutgers is a good choice for students looking for a moderately competitive place to apply. That being said, what makes a successful Rutgers applicant? 

Rutgers Admissions Requirements

Obviously, GPA, standardized testing scores, and extracurricular achievements are the key components of a successful application to Rutgers University and to any school. That being said, what do these components actually look like for Rutgers University admits? Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What Kind of GPA Is Necessary To Get Into Rutgers University?

Rutgers does not publish the GPA ranges of their enrolled students. The next best thing we can do is look at the percent breakdown of enrolled students who were in the top percent of their graduating class. We also want to note that not every student who enrolled submitted their class rank, in fact, these numbers only represent 14% of the Class of 2027 (the most recently available data). However, we make do with what we have. Let’s check it out!

Score Range	Percent of Rutgers Class of 2027 (all enrolled students)
Percent in top tenth of high school graduating class	30%
Percent in top quarter of high school graduating class	66%
Percent in top half of high school graduating class	92%
Percent in bottom half of high school graduating class	8%
Percent in bottom quarter of high school graduating class	0%

What Kind of SAT or ACT Scores Are Needed To Get Into Rutgers?

The average SAT score for Rutgers University Class of 2028 was a 1380, and the average ACT score was a 31. Rutgers is not a test-optional school. Though Rutgers is test-optional, we at Ivy Coach believe that not submitting test scores can only ever hurt an applicant’s chances, even to supposedly test-optional schools. 

What Classes Do Students Need to Take to Get Into Rutgers?

While Rutgers does not explicitly state any minimum high school course preparation for applicants, we at Ivy Coach know that colleges want to see students excelling in each core subject (English, history, math, science, and foreign language) all four years of high school. In fact, they expect to see five years for foreign language since most students begin their first level of foreign language in eighth grade.

What Kinds of Extracurriculars Does Rutgers Like To See?

We’re going to clear up a common misunderstanding: highly selective colleges are not looking for well-rounded students. They’re looking for a well-rounded student body comprised of students who are each singularly talented. 

In terms of extracurriculars, that means Rutgers University is looking for depth over breadth. If you’re a member of the debate team, the robotics team, the field hockey team, and the drama department…well, then, you’re merely a member of those groups. You don’t stand out in any of these pursuits. Rutgers University would much rather accept a nationally ranked debate champ than a kid who spent an hour or two on debate a week because he spent the rest forgetting Shakespeare lines and fumbling the ball in football practice. 

Rutgers University Application Requirements

Rutgers University accepts The Common Application or Rutgers Application. They do not accept letters of recommendation, nor do they ask any supplemental questions. 

Does Rutgers University Require An Interview? 

No, Rutgers University does not require an interview, nor do they offer one. 

What Are Rutgers’ Application Deadlines? 

Early Action applications to Rutgers are due Nov. 1. Regular Decision applications are due January 15th. 

How Ivy Coach Helps Students Get Into Rutgers University 

If you’re interested in discerning if your child has a shot of getting into Rutgers University, we recommend setting up Ivy Coach’s Strategy Session. Not only will you find out if your child has a chance of getting into Rutgers University, but you’ll receive a game plan of how your child can optimize their admission to the best school possible.