Start with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Filing each year determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, scholarships, work-study, and state aid. All students are encouraged to submit a FAFSA annually.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Know the cost. Understand your options. Plan with confidence.
Keeping College Affordable
A Rutgers degree is within reach. We combine competitive tuition with substantial financial aid to make a Rutgers education accessible.
$16,491
Average financial aid for first-year students
2024-2025 data
76%
of undergraduate students received financial aid
2024-2025 data
71%
of graduate students received financial aid
2024-2025 data
Tuition Assistance
You have multiple ways to manage the cost of your Rutgers education—including federal aid, installment plans, and school- and state-supported programs designed to keep college affordable.
The Rutgers University Tuition Payment Plan (RUTPP) lets you pay your term bill in interest-free monthly installments through automatic bank withdrawals or credit/debit card payments.
The Scarlet Guarantee is a signature Rutgers–New Brunswick program that makes college more affordable for first- and second-year students. As a “last dollar” initiative, it covers remaining in-state tuition and eligible fees after other aid is applied. The Scarlet Guarantee is a supplemental program to the Garden State Guarantee.
Types of Financial Aid
Financial aid comes in different forms, including grants, scholarships, loans, campus employment, and state programs.
Grants
Grants—including Rutgers, federal, and state grants—are awarded to students based solely on financial need. To be considered for any Rutgers grants, you will need to complete the FAFSA.
Scholarships
Continuing and admitted students who submit a FAFSA are automatically considered for many scholarships awarded by the Office of Financial Aid. Merit-based scholarships recognize your academic achievement and depend on available funding and the competition from other students. These are gift aid and do not need to be repaid.
Loans
Several types of loans are available to Rutgers students and their families who may need to supplement their educational financing. Take a look at all options and find the loan that makes the most sense for you.
Student Employment
With the help of the Rutgers Student Employment Office, students find jobs to earn their own money through the Federal Work Study Program (FWSP) and the Job Location and Development Program (JLDP).
New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application
New Jersey Dreamers who are enrolled in eligible colleges and universities can apply for state financial aid through the New Jersey Tuition Equality Act.
New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
Students from educationally and economically disadvantaged backgrounds who attend participating institutions of higher education can receive financial assistance and support services (counseling, tutoring, developmental coursework) from EOF.
