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Access to a Great Education

A University of Opportunity: A Great Educational Value

The typical first-year, in-state Rutgers student paid less than 50 percent of the published tuition rate during academic year 2020–2021, through a combination of substantial financial aid from the university, with qualifying state and federal aid programs. Here are some of our signature programs that provide access to life-changing education.

Susan Badia

Scarlet Promise Grants

Need-based financial aid and emergency assistance is supported by more than $14 million in donations, part of the broader Scarlet Promise Initiative.

Students on the Plaza

Low- and No-Tuition Programs

Income-based financial aid helps cover in-state tuition and fees and reduces student debt.

• Bridging the Gap at Rutgers–Camden

• RU-N to the Top at Rutgers–Newark

• Scarlet Guarantee at Rutgers–New Brunswick

Brandon Mejia

Rutgers Future Scholars

The program is a national model for educational access, providing academically promising students of modest means from five New Jersey towns with mentoring beginning in 7th grade. Successful participants who earn admission to Rutgers attend with full tuition through grants and scholarships.

First-Generation Students

Thirty-four percent of first-year Rutgers students are first-generation college undergraduates. In honor of National First-Generation College Celebration Day, Rutgers asked students to share their stories about what it means to be the first in their families to go to college. Here is what they had to say.

Group of students at Commencement

Best for Vets

Military Times ranks Rutgers 13th in the nation for student veterans services, a recognition of Rutgers' dedication to serving the academic needs, well-being, and professional development of military-affiliated students. Watch U.S. Army veteran Maddison Van Der Mark discuss a paid Rutgers Summer Service Internship teaching youngsters Olympic-style boxing skills. The experience gave her a sense of purpose while she helped young people to develop confidence and to envision a future that could include college for themselves.

Van Der Mark 50-50

RSSI: Maddison Van Der Mark

Goldwater Scholars: Prestigious Awards Help Students Cover College Costs

Four Rutgers University–New Brunswick students—Eesh Gupta, Sohaib Hassan, Andrew Schwartz and Julia Shneidman—joined the next generation of research leaders as Goldwater Scholars, awarded for excellence in mathematics, science, and engineering. Recipients of the scholarships—established by the U.S. Congress and funded by the federal government and private donors—receive up to $7,500 to help cover costs associated with room and board, tuition, mandatory fees, and books, with the amount given based on financial need. The recognition marked the 17th consecutive year that Rutgers–New Brunswick students were selected as Goldwater Scholars. Rutgers students receive guidance and mentoring in applying for distinguished fellowships and scholarships.

Goldwater Scholars