Rider University: what international applicants need

What are Rider University's application deadlines for 2026–27?

Rider University has one application deadline for 2026–27: Early Action on November 15, 2026. It also admits on a rolling basis.

• Deadlines are usually 11:59 pm in your own time zone, unless the university says otherwise on its site.

What is Rider University's acceptance rate?

78.6% for students who started in fall 2024: Rider University admitted 7,920 of its 10,071 first-year applicants.

• The rate covers all first-year applicants, US and international: the federal data doesn't give a separate rate for international applicants.
• US Department of Education (IPEDS). Fall 2024 admissions (provisional release). Source

Does Rider University require the SAT or ACT for international applicants?

It depends. Rider University requires SAT or ACT scores from some applicants or programs only for 2026–27, and its testing page says which.

• This is the policy listed for all first-year applicants. Some universities treat international students differently, so confirm it on the testing page.
• For the Early Action deadline (November 15, 2026), the last international SAT whose scores come out in time is October 3, 2026: scores on October 16, 2026, registration by September 18, 2026 (late registration September 22, 2026).
• Official score reports can take a few more days to reach universities.

What SAT score do you need for Rider University?

The middle half of first-year students who enrolled in fall 2024 and sent SAT scores had 550–650 in Math and 550–670 in Reading and Writing (12% of them sent SAT scores).

• On the ACT, the middle half had a composite of 27–31.
• If your score is above the middle of these ranges, it helps your application. At a test-optional university, a score below the lower number usually isn't worth sending.
• US Department of Education (IPEDS). Fall 2024 admissions (provisional release): 25th to 75th percentile of enrolled first-year students who submitted scores. Source

How much is Rider University's application fee for international students?

Rider University's application fee is $75 for international applicants: $15 more than the $60 US applicants pay.

Does Rider University accept the Common App fee waiver from international students?

Yes. Rider University accepts the Common App fee waiver and doesn't limit it to US students.

• Your eligibility is confirmed through the Common App, usually with your counselor.

Which English tests does Rider University accept?

Rider University lists the TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, Duolingo English Test, and PTE Academic as accepted English proficiency tests for 2026–27.

• Minimum scores and exemptions (for example if you studied in English) are set by the university: check its international page.

Does Rider University accept the Duolingo English Test?

Yes. The Duolingo English Test is among the English tests Rider University accepts for 2026–27.

How many recommendation letters does Rider University require?

Rider University requires a counselor recommendation for 2026–27.

• Whatever the letters, your school sends the School Report and, after graduation, the Final Report: the Common App says every university requires them.

Does Rider University require the Common App personal essay?

Yes. Rider University requires the Common App personal essay (250 to 650 words) for 2026–27.

How many international students does Rider University have?

140 of Rider University's 3,145 undergraduates were international students (US nonresidents) in fall 2024: 4.5%.

• US Department of Education (IPEDS). Fall 2024 enrollment (provisional release). Source

How much does Rider University cost for international students?

Rider University's published tuition and fees for 2024–25 were $41,120, the same for every student. On-campus food and housing was $17,230. With books and other expenses, a year cost about $61,150 before any financial aid.

• US Department of Education (IPEDS). Published charges for 2024–25. Costs usually rise each year: check the university's site for 2027–28. Source