Rutgers University

Rutgers University, the State University of New Jersey, comprises 3 primary campuses. Each campus offers a unique environment and specialized programs, contributing to the university's diverse landscape. The oldest and main campus of Rutgers–New Brunswick spans over 2,600 acres with 700+ buildings.

Here’s a closer look at the key campuses:

Rutgers–New Brunswick:

• 5-campus system with over 16,000+ undergrads, offering broad academic and residential options
• Home to the Zimmerli Art Museum, one of the largest university-based museums in the U.S.
• Features top-tier STEM and life sciences research with access to advanced labs and Big Ten resources

Rutgers–Newark:

• Ranked among the most diverse campuses nationwide (U.S. News & World Report)
• Hosts Rutgers Business School–Newark, known for finance, supply chain, and accounting programs
• Strong focus on social mobility and civic engagement, with real-world learning in downtown Newark

Rutgers–Camden:

• Located on a 40-acre campus near Philadelphia, blending urban access with a close-knit feel
• Offers standout programs in law, business administration, and public affairs

Emphasizes undergraduate research, faculty mentorship, and community-based learning initiatives

After exploring the Rutgers University campus, let's examine the rankings as given in the QS ranking and US News report. 

Rutgers University continues to maintain its global standing, securing #328 in the QS World University Rankings 2026, consistent with its 2025 placement. Despite shifts across other ranking platforms, this stability reflects the university’s sustained academic output and international recognition.

Here’s a quick overview of its notable rankings over recent years:

Ranking Body	2024	2025	2026
QS World University	299	328	328
U.S. News & World Report	40	41	N/A
Times Higher Education	201-250	301-350	N/A

To truly understand the strength of a university, it's important to look beyond overall rankings and explore how it performs in your specific area of interest. 

However, subject-specific rankings provide valuable insights into the performance of your chosen program. Let's explore the details of the course-wise ranking to see how your field of study ranks.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2025

Rutgers University has built a strong academic reputation, excelling in several key disciplines. It ranks #3 globally for its Master's in Philosophy according to QS rankings, #39 for its Masters in Nursing according to U.S. News, and #140 for its Masters in Mathematics, also in the QS rankings.

Below is a summary of its subject-wise rankings:

Program	Ranking Body	Rank 2025
Mathematics	QS World University Rankings	140
Philosophy	QS World University Rankings	3
Computer Science & Information Systems	QS World University Rankings	188
Economics	US News	65
Nursing	US News	39
Medical & Health	THE Ranking	301-400

Now that you know where the university stands globally, let’s explore what you will need to get admission to the programs of your choice. 

Rutgers University's acceptance rate is around 65%, reflecting its inclusive approach to higher education. 

An average of 16,990 applicants are enrolled annually, with 11,315 students enrolled in bachelor’s and 5675 in master’s. Rutgers University’s commitment is to provide opportunities for a diverse range of applicants to be part of the university's community.

As you move forward in your application journey, it's crucial to understand the specific Admission Requirements that will guide your next steps.

Admission Requirements

It's essential to familiarize yourself with the admission process in advance. This will help you prepare your documents, take the required tests (e.g., SAT, ACT, TOEFL), and meet the necessary GPA standards, increasing your chances of acceptance.

Below is an overview of the admission requirements and upcoming deadlines for Rutgers University.

Academic Qualification

Academic requirements for studying in the USA include a GPA score, along with essential documents such as official transcripts, a statement of educational and professional objectives, and a letter of recommendation. 

For programs like the MBA, a resume or portfolio may also be required. Freshmen must complete at least 24 credits before taking up graduation courses at Rutgers University

Here are the academic requirements:

Criteria	Details
Academic Qualification	UG: High school completion with ≥16 academic units; GPA average for admitted students ~3.3/4.0 (~B+/A-) PG: Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution, typically with GPA ≥3.0 in last 60 credits.
Minimum Age	Typically 17 years for undergraduate admission; no strict minimum for graduate programs.
Language Proficiency	Minimum language requirements: IELTS: 6.5 - 7.0 TOEFL: 79 Duolingo English Test: 115+ PTE Academic: 68
Required Documents	Academic transcripts, application form, SOP, LORs, resume
Additional Requirements	Self‑reported academic record (SRAR) GRE/GMAT, where requested Financial proof for international students

Language Proficiency

International applicants, including those from India, must demonstrate English language proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo English Tests. Students who have completed previous education in English may be eligible for a waiver.

Refer to the table below to check the minimum test scores accepted by the university.

Test	Average Score Range
TOEFL iBT	79
IELTS Academic	6.5
Duolingo English Test (DET)	115
PTE Academic	53
Cambridge Assessment English	B2

Note: 

• The Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy and the School of Nursing require higher TOEFL scores of 100 and 130, respectively.
• The minimum IELTS score for Rutgers University, Newark is 6.5 

Let’s now take a look at the competitive exam scores

Competitive Exams 

Rutgers University mandates an average score of 318 in GRE and 642 in GMAT test scores for a full-time MBA. However, for a part-time MBA course, this ranges from 309 for GRE and 582 for GMAT. 

Refer to the table below to check the minimum test scores accepted by the university.

Test	Average Score Range
SAT Evidence-Based Reading & Writing	550
ACT English Section	21
GMAT	642
GRE	318

Visa Requirements

All F-1 visa applicants must first receive an I-20 form from Rutgers University, which certifies eligibility for the student visa application, along with a SEVIS fee payment receipt. The I-20 request can only be made after admission, acceptance of the offer, and payment of the tuition deposit.

Here are the visa requirements to study at Rutgers University

Note: The F-1 student visa is the most common visa type for international students pursuing academic degrees at Rutgers University

Document	Requirement
Form I‑20	Issued after admission & financial documentation submitted stating tuition + living expenses
Study Permit (F‑1 visa)	Required for programs >6 months; obtain via U.S. consulate using I‑20
SEVIS Fee (I‑901)	$350 fee must be paid before visa interview
Passport Validity	Valid for entire study period + buffer as per consulate rules
Financial Proof	Bank statements or certified funding covering tuition + living costs for first year
Biometrics	Required at the U.S. consulate
Admission Letter	Official Rutgers acceptance letter required for visa filing

Let’s now take a look at the admission dates and deadlines.

Admission Dates and Deadlines

Rutgers University follows a structured application timeline across its Spring and Fall intakes, with clearly defined deadlines for both first-year and transfer applicants. Early Action decisions for Fall 2025 are released by January, while Spring 2025 applicants typically hear back by December.

Here's a detailed overview of all upcoming deadlines and decision windows:

Intake	Applicant Type	Application Deadline	Decision Date
Spring 2025	First-Year & Transfer	October 1, 2024 (Closed)	December 1, 2024 (Closed)
	Late/Rolling Admission	After October 1, 2024 (Closed)	Based on availability
Fall 2025	First-Year (Early Action)	November 1, 2024 (Closed)	January 31, 2025 (Closed)
	First-Year (Regular)	December 1, 2024 (Closed)	February 28, 2025 (Closed)
	Transfer (All Schools)	February 1, 2025 (Closed)	April 15, 2025 (Closed)

Now that you’ve reviewed the admission requirements and application deadlines for studying at Rutgers University, let’s take a look at the different programs offered.

Rutgers offers over 150 undergraduate majors and 400+ graduate programs across its three campuses. This includes standout areas like Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Life & Environmental Sciences, Arts, Public Policy, and more.

Standout Rutgers University courses include:

• MBA in Management & Finance: Offers full-time, part-time, and executive formats; concentrations in Strategy, Marketing, and Pharmaceutical Management; STEM-designated tracks available.
• MSc in Environmental Science: Research-based program focusing on sustainability, climate, and policy; backed by centers like the Rutgers Climate Institute.
• MLIS (Master of Library and Information Science): Ranked among top iSchool programs; covers digital archives, UX, and data curation.
• BASc in Engineering: Available in disciplines like Civil engineering, Mechanical, Biomedical, and Aerospace Engineering, supported by research facilities like CAIT and WINLAB, with options for dual degrees.
• BSc in Computer Science: Covers systems, algorithms, machine learning, and human-computer interaction; includes access to labs like DIMACS and ties to major tech employers in the region.
• BA/BS in Life Sciences: Includes majors like Genetics, Biotechnology, and Molecular Biology; integrates coursework with hands-on research in affiliated medical and environmental institutes.

After reviewing some of the programs offered at Rutgers University, let's examine the tuition fees for various courses.

Program Fees at Rutgers University

Rutgers University's tuition structure for international students reflects a significant differential compared to in-state rates, with non-resident annual tuition fees averaging $33,734 (INR 29.07L ) to $20,772  (INR 17.90L) per semester.

Here’s a breakdown of annual tuition costs:

Program	Annual Tuition (Non-Resident)	Additional Fees
Bachelor's (Undergraduate)	$33,734 (INR 29.07L)	$3,707 (INR 3.19L) (mandatory fees)
Master’s Courses (Graduate)	$17,532 per semester (INR 15.11L)	$891.50 (INR 76K) (student fee)  $204.50 (INR 17K) (technology fee)  $1,035 (INR 89K) (off-site fee)  $1,233 (INR 1.06L) (health insurance)
MBA (Rutgers Business School)	$20,772 per semester (INR 17.90L)	$905.50 (INR 78K) (student fee) $1,035 (INR 89K) (off-site fee)

Note: INR Currency conversions are approximate and reflect the current exchange rate. 

Let us now break down the total estimated cost for international students, including housing, health insurance, and other essential expenditures.

 

The cost of studying in the USA at Rutgers University varies significantly by residency status and program type. For example, a non-New Jersey resident pursuing a J.D. pays $39,683 (INR 34L) annually, while an in-state undergraduate pays just $14,222 (INR 12.1L).

Here's a breakdown of tuition fees across key programs to help with financial planning:

Course	Tuition Fees (USD)	Tuition Fees (INR)
B.A./B.S. (NJ resident, New Brunswick)	$14,222	INR 12.1L
B.A./B.S. (non‑NJ resident)	$33,734	INR 29L
M.S. in Engineering (NJ resident)	$19,824	INR 17L
M.S. in Engineering (non‑NJ resident)	$33,720	INR 29L
J.D. – Rutgers Law (NJ resident)	$27,269	INR 23.3L
J.D. – Rutgers Law (non‑NJ resident)	$39,683	INR 34L

Note: 

• Tuition varies by program and credit load. Graduate figures represent typical full-time two-semester enrollment.
• Currency conversions are approximate and based on the current exchange rate.

Let’s now explore essential living expenses you will encounter as an international student at Rutgers University.

Rutgers University offers merit-based scholarship awards to students who rank within the top 10-15% of the applicant pool. Scholarships ranging from $5,000 (INR 4.31L) to $16,000 (INR 13.79L) are more likely to be awarded to early applicants each year.

Below is a breakdown of both internal and external scholarships available, including fully funded scholarships in the USA for international students:

Internal Scholarships

Rutgers University offers internal scholarships, like the First-Year Merit Scholarship Award, which is available to all first-year applicants to Rutgers–New Brunswick who apply by December 1, 2024 (Closed). 

This renewable merit-based scholarship is awarded based on academic strength and requires full-time enrollment and a minimum GPA of 3.25 for renewal. Here are some scholarships to study in the USA:

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Type	Details
First-Year Merit Scholarship Award	Merit-Based (Internal)	Eligibility: All first-year applicants to Rutgers–New Brunswick who apply by December 1.  Benefits: Renewable award based on academic strength;
National Merit College-Sponsored Scholarship	Merit-Based (Internal)	Eligibility: National Merit finalists who designate Rutgers as their first choice. Benefits: $1,000 (INR 86K) per year, renewable for up to four years with a minimum 3.0 GPA
Vincent R. Kramer Merit Endowed Scholarship	Merit-Based (Internal)	Eligibility: First-year students at Rutgers with outstanding academic achievement and leadership.  Benefits: One-time award of $1,766 (INR 1.52L)

With a strong foundation in internal scholarships supporting a wide range of student needs, Rutgers University also recognizes external funding opportunities.

External Scholarships

External scholarships can add significant value to your funding strategy, like the Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship, which offers up to $40,000. Rutgers students can apply for several such awards based on academic merit, financial need, or chosen field of study. Below are a few notable options worth considering:

Scholarship Name	Type	Details
Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship	Merit-based	Eligibility: Applicants should have passed 12th standard examination after 2020 Benefits: $40,000
The Wilfred M. "Wiley" Post Scholarship	Need-based	Eligibility: Students who are residents of Pennsylvania and seeking an associate's, bachelor's, or graduate degree Benefits: $1,000
Target Scholars Program	Merit-based	Eligibility: Must be a junior, majoring in business or engineering Benefits: $5,000

Next, let’s explore the placement stats of Rutgers University

Rutgers University's placement rate for graduates is around 89%. It provides exceptional career placement opportunities for its graduates, with comprehensive support systems and strong industry partnerships that facilitate successful transitions from academia to professional careers. 

Here are the key placement opportunities available to Rutgers graduates:

• High Career Outcome Rates: 89% career outcome rate for the Class of 2023, with 92% of students employed 6 years post-graduation.
• Competitive Starting Salaries: Early-career grads earn an average of $70,000 (INR 60.34L), with engineering students at $78,700 (INR 67.84L), and MBA students averaging $103,278 (INR 89.02L).
• Strong Employer Partnerships: Major employers like Amazon, Lockheed Martin, and JPMorgan Chase actively recruit on campus.
• Internship & Co-op Opportunities: 90% of undergraduates participate in international internships, with 65% receiving job offers from their internships.
• Comprehensive Career Support: Career advising, resume reviews, interview prep, and a network of 450,000 alumni help students transition to careers.
• Large Career Fairs: Annual recruitment events, such as the Fall Career & Internship Mega Fair, feature over 400 employers and 8,000+ candidates.
• Top Business School Placement: Rutgers Business School ranks #5 globally for job placement, with 91.4% employment within 3 months of graduation.
• Specialized Industry Excellence: Schools like the School of Engineering report a 91% positive outcome rate for undergraduates, with strong placements in top companies.

Let’s now take a look at the top companies where Rutgers University students can find jobs in the USA as a fresher and are likely to get recruited for top positions.

Top Recruiters

Rutgers University maintains active hiring relationships with top employers across tech, healthcare, defense, and consulting. Its strong academic output and location advantage in the Northeast keep it on the radar of firms recruiting for full-time and internship roles.

Below is a list of top recruiters that consistently hire Rutgers students across operations, finance, engineering, and more:

• Amazon: Actively recruits for operations, supply chain, and software roles through Rutgers career expos, tech talks, and the Handshake platform. Many students transition from internship programs into full-time roles.
• Johnson & Johnson: As one of New Jersey’s largest employers, J&J hires across biomedical engineering, regulatory affairs, marketing, and quality control, frequently participating in industry panels and targeted career days.
• Lockheed Martin: Offers co-ops and project-based opportunities to engineering and computer science students, often through collaborative research projects and defense-focused innovation challenges.
• RWJBarnabas Health: Engages Rutgers’ nursing, public health, and biomedical science graduates for clinical and healthcare administration positions, drawing from the university’s proximity to affiliated hospitals.
• Dell Technologies: Hires for IT strategy, digital infrastructure, and enterprise sales, regularly hosting on-campus recruitment drives and virtual info sessions focused on tech career pathways.

Now, let's look at internship and co-op opportunities available for students at Rutgers University.

All three universities, Rutgers, Penn State University, and UConn, offer broad academic choices and post-study visa support, but they differ in global standing and financial outcomes. For instance, Rutgers graduates report average earnings of $70,000, notably higher than both Penn State and UConn.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison across rankings, fees, salaries, course offerings, and more:

Parameter	Rutgers University	Pennsylvania State University	University of Connecticut
QS World University Rankings 2026	#328	#82	#534
Average Tuition Fees	$56,432	$57,764	$58,780 to $69,380
Total Number of Courses	300+	275+	115+
Popular Courses	MA in Communications MA Teacher Education Programs BS in Applied & Resource Economics Bachelor of Science (BS)	Doctor of Educational Leadership (J.D./Ph.D.) Business Administration (M.B.A./M.D.) American Studies (M.A.) B.A. in Chinese - M.I.A. in International Affairs (B.A./M.I.A.)	MA in Communications MA Teacher Education Programs MS in Applied & Resource Economics BS in Marine Science & Oceanography
Average Salary after Graduation	$70,000	$58,300	$58,400
Post-study Work Visa Opportunity	Yes	Yes	Yes
Scholarships	Kevin Apuzzio Endowed Memorial Scholarship Vincent R. Kramer Merit Endowed Scholarship	Penn State Commonwealth Award Penn State Provost's Award	Nutmeg Scholarship President-to-President Scholarship

All three universities bring different strengths to the table, whether in global rankings, tuition costs, or program range. The final choice often depends on what students value more: reputation, affordability, or specific academic tracks.

Beyond tuition, living expenses at Rutgers University add up to an estimated $21,326 (INR 18.3L) per year. Major contributors include housing and meals at around $15,000 (INR 12.9L), with additional costs for books, transportation, and personal expenses.

Below is a detailed view of average annual living costs in the USA for students:

Purpose	Average Annual Cost (USD)	Average Annual Cost (INR)
Accommodation & Food	$15,000	INR 12.9L
Books & Study Materials	$1,446	INR 1.2L
Transportation	$986	INR 86K
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, etc.)	$332	INR 29K
Recreation & Miscellaneous	$3,562	INR 3.06L
Total Estimated Annual Cost	$21,326	INR 18.3L

Note: Currency conversions are approximate and based on the current exchange rate.

To help ease the burden of tuition costs, Rutgers University offers scholarship opportunities for eligible students. Let's check out some popular scholarships.

Rutgers University’s alumni network includes over 570,000 members across all 50 U.S. states and over 120 countries. Its graduates have held major roles in politics, science, media, and business. From Nobel-winning economists to U.S. senators, tech founders, and cultural icons, Rutgers' influence spans multiple spheres.

Here are some of the university’s most distinguished alumni and their contributions:

Name	Field of Work	Contribution/Recognition
Milton Friedman	Economics	Nobel Prize in Economics (1976); leading public intellectual in economic theory and policy
Selman Waksman	Science (Microbiology)	Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (1952); discovered streptomycin and other antibiotics
Toni Morrison	Literature	Nobel Prize in Literature (1993); Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, taught at Rutgers
Carli Lloyd	Sports	Two-time Olympic gold medalist, two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, FIFA Player of the Year
James Gandolfini	Arts & Entertainment	Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor, best known for "The Sopranos"
Elizabeth Warren	Politics	U.S. Senator (Massachusetts), former presidential candidate
Wade J. Henderson	Civil Rights	Civil rights leader, former president of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
Alexi Lalas	Sports	U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame, Olympian, former MLS star, and World Cup player
Judge Gregory E. Jackson	Law	Served 20 years on D.C. Superior Court, recognized for legal leadership
Dr. Constantine Mavroudis	Medicine	Pioneering pediatric heart surgeon, developed complex congenital heart repair procedures

After reviewing the distinguished alumni and their field of work, let's compare Rutgers University with its competitors.