Rutgers University–Newark (RU-N) is experiencing record-breaking growth this academic year, welcoming the largest incoming undergraduate class in its history and achieving a 3% increase in total enrollment, now reaching 11,667 students. This growth, fueled by a 17% rise in applications, underscores the university’s dual commitment to access and academic excellence in New Jersey.
RU-N has also solidified its position as a national leader in student success and upward mobility. For the second consecutive year, the university ranked #5 nationwide for social mobility and #1 in New Jersey and the Northeast, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Key enrollment and diversity figures
The university’s total enrollment figure includes 2,645 new undergraduate students and a 6% surge in graduate enrollment, totaling 3,352 students. The success in social mobility is highlighted by the fact that 56% of RU-N students are Pell-eligible, with the university ranking #12 nationally in graduation rates for those recipients.
“Our enrollment growth reflects not only strong interest in Rutgers University–Newark, but also the intentional, campus-wide collaboration that supports student success from inquiry to graduation,” LaToya Battle-Brown, vice chancellor for Enrollment Management said.
With a strong New Jersey focus, nearly 92% of RU-N students are state residents, and 40% identify as first-generation college students. The majority of students hail from Essex, Hudson, Bergen, Union, Middlesex and Passaic Counties.
National and research distinction
Chancellor Tonya Smith-Jackson attributed the success to the university’s comprehensive approach. “Our culture of belonging, our research that addresses real-world challenges, and our intentional support for students from every background together form the foundation of our growth and impact,” she said.
RU-N’s growing academic and research distinction is reflected in several national ranking improvements:
- #36 among public universities nationwide (up from #39).
- #75 among all universities nationwide (up from #80).
As a leading R2 research university, RU-N is advancing solutions in critical areas like data science, climate, and social determinants of health. It is also home to the nation’s largest jazz archive.
The university hosted a well-attended Open House on Oct. 12, drawing over 1,100 prospective students and families to campus, showcasing the opportunities available at one of the country’s most diverse academic communities.
