How hard is it to get into Rutgers?

Hey, I've been considering applying to Rutgers University in my senior year and I'm curious about the admissions process. What kind of acceptance rate and average test scores do they typically have?

Rutgers University is a large public institution in New Jersey with several campuses, the main ones being Rutgers–New Brunswick and Rutgers–Newark. Admissions difficulty can vary depending on which campus you're applying to, so I'll provide a general overview of the admissions process for the entire university.

The acceptance rate may fluctuate each year, but it typically falls within the range of 60-70%. However, keep in mind that the acceptance rate for the different schools within Rutgers, such as the School of Engineering or the School of Arts and Sciences, may vary.

Regarding test scores, Rutgers is test optional, which means you can submit scores if you think they will help your application. When considering test scores from past years, the middle 50% SAT range for accepted students was around 1270-1480, and the middle 50% ACT range was approximately 28-33. If Rutgers reverts to considering test scores, being within or above these ranges would be beneficial.

In addition to test scores, the university will also consider your GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal statement/essay to evaluate your application holistically. The average GPA for incoming Rutgers students typically falls in the 3.5-4.0 range. To increase your chances of admission, it's essential to focus on building a well-rounded application with solid academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and strong essays.

Lastly, make sure you submit your application by the appropriate deadline – Rutgers has Early Action (November 1st) and Regular Decision (December 1st) options. Applying Early Action isn't binding but can offer you a decision earlier than Regular Decision applicants. Good luck with your application!