rutgers essay questions

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How to Respond to the 2023-2024 Rutgers Supplemental Essay Prompts

Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.

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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

The Rutgers University essay prompts are ready and waiting! If your goal is to become a Scarlet Knight, then read on because we have a handy dandy guide on how to best respond to the Rutgers’ application prompts. Keep in mind that students can also apply to Rutgers through the Common Application , but our guide focuses on the Rutgers specific prompts. Ok, let’s learn how to best respond to the Rutgers supplemental essay prompts!

First, some background on Rutgers University

Rutgers University is the state university of New Jersey. As a diverse public research university. Rutgers offers three regional campuses in the following cities in New Jersey: 

• New Brunswick

Rutgers offers more than 150 undergraduate majors throughout their schools and colleges across all three campuses. Therefore, Rutgers has something for everyone! Let’s break down the Rutgers essay choices to make responding as clear as possible. 

The Rutgers University supplemental essay prompts

Rutgers requires applicants to complete only one essay – so it is your lucky day!  Applicants can choose from a list of five different topics or submit an essay on the topic of their choice. Therefore, be sure to select the prompt that most interests you. Essay responses should be up to 3800 characters (or 500 words).

Remember, do not select a prompt or write your own essay about a subject you have already written about for your Common App or in any other part of your application. You want Rutgers to get a good well-rounded sense of who you are so avoid repetition when possible! 

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“Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.”

For this prompt, think about a moment in your life that has changed you. If an event did not immediately pop into your mind, this may not be the prompt for you. However, if you read this prompt and said, “I have a profound story to share…,” think of the following questions to help you write your response. 

Questions to consider

• Who was involved and what happened during this experience? 
• What did you learn from this instance?
• How has this event changed you as a person? 
• What do you want someone to take away from this story of your life? 

The most important aspect of this essay response is to focus on how this experience demonstrates your character or helped to shape it. Don’t get too caught up in describing the experience in extreme detail. Connect back to Rutgers at the end of your response and show how you plan on using your experience to help you in your future endeavors. It will also demonstrate that you are the type of person who truly learns from the past and will continue to blossom while attending Rutgers.

Also see: How to write an essay about yourself  

“What interests or excites you? How does it shape who you are now or who you might become in the future?”

For this prompt, it is important to focus on your main hobbies and interests. You want to be completely authentic in your responses to allow Rutgers to truly get to know you. Therefore, truly reflect on your passions and life and select the one that means the most to you. 

• What is something you are passionate about? 
• What have you learned from this passion/interest? 
• How did you become interested in this topic? 

After writing about your passion or interest, it is important to answer the second part of this question, “How does it shape who you are now or who you might become in the future?” 

In order to answer the second part of this question, you will need to reflect deeply on this passion or interest you selected. 

• How has this interest changed you? 
• What have you learned about yourself through this passion? 
• Why is this an interest you have? 

The most important thing is that you are reflecting upon your passion and digging deep to discover what motivates you and how it has shaped you. 

Also see: What looks good on a college application?

“Describe a time when you had a positive impact on others. What were the challenges? What were the rewards?”

To answer this prompt, choose a distinct time in your life where you had a positive impact on others. Be sure this is a very obvious event or time when you had a positive impact.  Once you decide what event to write about, make sure that you provide meaningful details. This includes setting the scene, describing what exactly happened, and how you had a positive impact.

After describing the time, dive into the challenges and rewards of this particular time in your life. In addition, write about what you have learned from this experience. 

• How did you make a positive impact on others? 
• Would you want to be in a similar situation again? 
• What were the responses of those around you? Positive or negative? 
• Why did you take on the role of being a positive impact on others? 
• What did you learn about yourself from this experience? 

“Has there been a time when an idea or belief of yours was questioned? How did you respond? What did you learn?”

To begin this prompt, think about a time in which you were questioned. This could be a time in which you realized your beliefs were right or even wrong!

Once you choose an example, set the scene and make that experience come to life. 

• What led up to your beliefs being questioned?
• Who questioned you? A stranger? A close friend? 
• Was this questioning of beliefs friendly? Or more confrontational? 
• Did this event make you question your beliefs? Or uphold these beliefs more strongly? 
• What did you learn from this event? 
• How will you demonstrate what you learned from this event while attending Rutgers? 

The most important part of responding to this prompt is your demonstration of growth and learning from this experience. Therefore, be sure to truly reflect on this experience and share how you will continue to take what you learned with you. 

“What success have you achieved or obstacles have you faced? What advice would you give a sibling or friend going through a similar experience?”

For this response, choose to write about either a success you have achieved or an obstacle you have faced. No matter which option you choose to write about, it is important to describe what exactly happened. After describing either the success or obstacle, you should then describe what you learned from this experience. 

Then, you should detail advice you would give a friend or sibling that is going through a similar situation. This genuine advice should be that you would actually give a friend or family member. 

• What accomplishments mean the most to you?
• What obstacle have you had to overcome?
• Did anyone support your success or help you through a difficult time?

“Submit an essay on a topic of your choice”

The final topic example for the Rutgers supplemental essay is to just simply submit an essay on a topic of your choice. Select this option if none of the other options stood out to you. Remember, this is an admissions requirement, so you want to ensure that you are putting your best foot forward and not using an essay from another school.

The most important thing to note if you select this option is that you should not be repeating yourself in your application. Therefore, if your Common App essay is about your soccer career, this essay should not be about your soccer career! Rather, highlight one of your other amazing characteristics. Write about something that has not yet been discussed on your application.

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Wrapping up

Although Rutgers only requires one essay response, it can be quite daunting trying to choose between all of the options they provide. Therefore, try to pick the topic that most appeals to you–the one that makes you feel you could  write a novel about! Also, remember if none of the topics appeal to you, you can choose to write an essay on a topic of your choice. Remember, Rutgers is viewing your application as a whole, so it is important to be authentic and avoid repetition. Best of luck! 

Additional resources

Scholarships360 is a great source that offers an abundance of assistance in the college application process! Check out our other helpful guides on how to write a great supplemental essay , how to respond to the Common App prompts , how to write an essay about yourself , and how to write 250 or 500 word essays. 

Other colleges to consider

• University of Delaware (Newark, DE)
• Cornell University (Ithaca ,NY)
• New York University (New York, NY)

Frequently asked questions about responding to the Rutgers supplemental essay prompts

Does rutgers care about application essays, how long should my rutgers essay be, how to i stand out when writing my rutgers essay, can i reuse essays from other applications for my rutgers essay, scholarships360 recommended.

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A Good Rutgers Essay Example

What’s covered:, essay example , where to get feedback on your essay .

With over 60,000 students, Rutgers University is the largest higher education institution in New Jersey. With such a large school, there is something for everybody, which is why it might seem that everybody applies. In order to make your Rutgers application stand out from the crowd, you need to have well-written essays. In this post, we’ll share a real essay a student submitted to Rutgers, and outline its strengths and areas of improvement. (Names and identifying information have been changed, but all other details are preserved).

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Since the Rutgers essay prompts are the same as the Coalition Application prompts, we recommend checking out our guide to the Coalition Application essays for a comprehensive breakdown on how to write these supplemental prompts.

Prompt: Has there been a time when you’ve had a long-cherished or accepted belief challenged? How did you respond? How did the challenge affect your beliefs? (No word count given)

I was about to eat the last cookie when I heard a low growl. I looked up at my friend, her cheeks flushed red, and her brow pinched in a tight dip. She didn’t make eye contact with me when I extended my hand to give her the cookie. She pushed it away, and I kept insisting until she finally gave in. Growing up, family was extremely important to me. I was taught to treat others like my family, a mantra we would repeat. Sharing that cookie, despite not having lunch that day, was like sharing the last tortilla with my brother.

As much as I would like to say family is important to me now, it’s not. At least not the accepted concept of family which is the people you are related to by blood. The problem with this concept of family is that you don’t get to choose the people in your family, no matter how good or bad of a person they are. 

Unfortunately, I learned this through my dad’s death. Before this tragedy, my family was inseparable. We would have parties every weekend to celebrate the big game or just see each other. Now, those parties only frequent the occasional birthday. It was weird for me to lose my closeness with my family, but this closeness was quickly replaced by relationships with my friends. I’ll never forget the heartfelt discussions I had with my friend Nick, who would give his shoulder for me to cry on and tell a joke that would make me wheeze in laughter.

Two years have passed, and I stand towering over my dad’s grave. There’s a flag pierced in the dead grass, and my hands are frozen. It’s quiet, and I think about the detrimental truth my mom whispered in my ear. It took me so long to realize this, blind to the hints he left behind. He would have improved his chances of surviving cancer if he took care of himself. He didn’t care about my brother and me, and at his grave I accepted that. I talked to him genuinely one last time, touched his tombstone, then walked away. I moved on.

This truth of my dad not caring for his health dawned the realization that my family was just a bunch of people who didn’t know me. I coped through isolation as I was comfortable being alone, but my family tried to force me out to go places and surround myself with people who weren’t emotionally available. In response, I instead surrounded myself with the people I chose to be my family, such as Nick. We would often go to the mall and browse each store or go to the Rollercade and spend hours falling. I would steal sips from his red ICEE, and he would always try to catch me but slip on the floor. These moments meant more than scarce instances I had with my dad. 

Every day I message my friends, some new and others old. I cherish these people who are not bound by blood, but for my personality, my laughter, my jokes, and my intelligence. I’ll never forget how my reformed belief of family allowed me to make friends who have made long lasting impressions and positive influences in my life.

What the Essay Did Well

The first thing that jumps out at you is how vulnerable this essay is. The author wasn’t afraid to let the reader into their personal life, and because of that, the essay is stronger. So much more is revealed about who this student is and how they respond to difficult situations because they were honest with us.

Another thing that this essay does well is describing what family means to this student. Taking an accepted concept like family and boiling it down to the little moments helps us see what they value. For them, seeing each other frequently, celebrating together, having a shoulder to cry on, sharing the last bite of food, and losing track of time by just being in each other’s company is what makes a family. Sprinkling in all these examples and anecdotes shows us what their definition of a family is, without explicitly needing to tell us.

There’s a nice balance in this essay between what this student accepted as the traditional idea of family and how they now see family. For this prompt, it’s important to have that balance so you can show what the long-cherished belief was, as well as how a challenge to that belief changed your perspective. This essay does a good job of encompassing both.

What Could Be Improved

Although a really vulnerable topic can be great for revealing personal details and creating empathy, it can also backfire and make the reader uncomfortable. This isn’t a guarantee, but it’s something to keep in mind when choosing a deeply personal and somewhat traumatic topic. For the most part, the author did a good job of keeping the story focused on themselves and their emotions, but it’s always a possibility that someone reading the essay lost someone close to them and finds this essay too hard to read.

In terms of the structure of the essay, it wavered back and forth between focusing on the student’s dad and their friends. To make it a little easier to follow, they should have started with how their traditional family was important to them until their dad died, and then explain how they found a new definition of family among their friends. This structure is more concise and clearer than starting with the dad, jumping to Nick, going back to the dad, and then going to Nick once again.

Want feedback like this on your Rutgers essay before you submit? We offer expert essay review by advisors who have helped students get into their dream schools. You can book a review with an expert to receive notes on your topic, grammar, and essay structure to make your essay stand out to admissions officers.

Haven’t started writing your essay yet? Advisors on CollegeVine also offer expert college counseling packages . You can purchase a package to get one-on-one guidance on any aspect of the college application process, including brainstorming and writing essays.

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Rutgers Supplemental Essay 2023-24

Rutgers supplemental essay.

Rutgers University , located in New Jersey, is celebrated as one of the premier public universities in the nation. Consequently, Rutgers Admissions carefully review thousands of applications, each one with a Rutgers supplemental essay annually to identify ideal candidates. Within the application, the Rutgers essay section is a significant portion for any prospective student.

With the Rutgers acceptance rate falling around 66%, many students wonder how to get into Rutgers University. Well, if you’re eager to discover the key to gaining admission to Rutgers University, you’re in the right place! In addition to maintaining a strong academic record, there’s another portion of your Rutgers application that can help make it shine: your essays. The Rutgers University supplemental essays are a critical opportunity to connect directly with admissions officers. With this in mind, your Rutgers essay can be the deciding factor in the success of your application.

Our guide on Rutgers University supplemental essays will walk you through strategies for writing clear, compelling, and authentic Rutgers essays. We’ll explore the Rutgers requirements, analyze Rutgers essay prompts, and provide valuable insights to help you craft your Rutgers essay. With this guide, you’ll be ready to write Rutgers University supplemental essays that are certain to impress Rutgers Admissions.

Are you ready to learn how to get into Rutgers University by harnessing the power of Rutgers University supplemental essays? If so, let’s get started!

Rutgers Admissions: Quick Facts

Rutgers university admissions quick facts.

• Rutgers Acceptance Rate: The Rutgers acceptance rate is 66%. While the Rutgers acceptance rate is higher compared to other top universities, U.S. News still considers Rutgers moderately selective . 
• Rutgers University Application Platforms: Rutgers accepts the Common Application & Rutgers University Application
• Rutgers Essay Requirements :
• If Applying Using the Common Application: Rutgers requires applicants to complete the Common App essay. Choose from Common Application 2023-2024 Prompts (650 Words Maximum)
• If Applying Using the Rutgers Application: Rutgers requires applicants to complete one essay similar to the Common App essay (3800 Characters Maximum)  
• 1 optional Rutgers Supplemental Essay
• Early Action: November 1
• Regular Decision: December 1
• Rolling Admission: Students can submit their applications after the above due dates and will be considered based on space-availability.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website.

Does Rutgers have supplemental essays?

Part of the Rutgers requirements for their first-year applicants is completing Rutgers University supplemental essays. When you think of supplemental essays, you probably think of short, additional school-specific essays. They usually ask unique questions and typically ask for 150-300 word responses. However, in the case of Rutgers, you can think of the Rutgers supplemental essays a bit differently.

If using the Common Application, your Common App essay is considered your Rutgers supplemental essay. If using the Rutgers University Application, then your personal statement will still serve as your Rutgers supplemental essay. In addition to the personal statement, students have the option of completing one additional Rutgers essay.

How many essays does Rutgers require?

As previously mentioned, Rutgers University requires first-year applicants to submit one Rutgers supplemental essay, i.e. your personal statement. The required Rutgers supplemental essay for students applying using the Common Application is the Common App essay.

The required Rutgers supplemental essay for students using the Rutgers University Application also aligns with the Common App essay. Therefore, instead of submitting the Common App essay through the Common Application, students will submit their response via the Rutgers Application.

Rutgers Supplemental Essays

Viewing the Rutgers requirements, you’ll see the Rutgers essay prompts are the same as the Common App essay prompts. In the past, Rutgers essay prompts used to align with the Coalition essay prompts, however this is no longer the case. Therefore, whether you are using the Rutgers Portal or the Common Application, you’ll have the same choice of prompts. (While the Coalition essay prompts and Common App essay prompts cover similar topics, they are distinct from one another! Be sure you are referencing the Common App prompts when you start brainstorming for your Rutgers essay.)

Students can choose from seven different Rutgers essay prompts/Common App essay prompts. Luckily, the Common App essay prompts align with common college essay topics . Consequently, there are a ton of resources online that will help guide you in writing your response.

To save you some time conducting additional research, below are some tips for responding to the Common App essay prompts. Review these tips to ensure your Rutgers supplemental essay effectively answers the prompt.

Rutgers University Essay Prompt #1

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. if this sounds like you, then please share your story..

This Rutgers supplemental essay is an opportunity for students to share something important to them. The key here is to reflect on something that has had a profound impact on your life. That way, you can share exactly how it has shaped you into the person you are today.

There are many ways to introduce the defining aspect of your background, identity, interest, or talent. Consider starting with a personal anecdote or something surprising about your topic. Don’t feel like you need a rigid topic sentence, “In this essay I will show how my experience playing basketball makes me a good candidate for Rutgers.” Your first sentence should immediately draw the reader into your world, whatever that looks like.

Be sure to discuss how this defining aspect has influenced your values, goals, and character. The point of reflecting on your past experiences is to see how you’ll take those lessons learned into the future. Lastly, emphasize how your unique background or talent would contribute to the campus community.

Rutgers University Essay Prompt #2

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. how did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience.

For this Rutgers supplemental essay, you’ll be focusing on a specific situation. This prompt is ideal for students who want to showcase their resilience, growth, and valuable lessons learned. Attending college is a challenging experience for just about everyone. So, it’s incredibly valuable to be able to demonstrate how you’ve previously faced challenges in your life.

To execute this Rutgers supplemental essay, describe the challenge, setback, or failure you encountered, providing context and details. Share the lessons you gained from this experience. Why was this specific conflict in your life so transformative and meaningful? Conclude your Rutgers supplemental essay by demonstrating how this experience positively influenced your character, achievements, and determination. Then, share how it connects to your aspirations for attending college.

Rutgers University Essay Prompt #3

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. what prompted your thinking what was the outcome.

If you have engaged in critical thinking, challenging the world around you, this may be the essay for you. Questioning the world around us is an important aspect of intellectual curiosity. It’s what drives us to explore new and valuable ideas, even when they don’t agree with the status quo.

In this Rutgers supplemental essay, be sure to explain the belief or idea you challenged and what prompted your thinking. Discuss the outcome of your inquiry and whether it led to personal growth or change. Did you learn to see that belief or idea in a new light? Or did your questioning lead you to new beliefs or ideas? Reflect on the significance of critical thinking, your newfound perspectives, and how they’ll impact your future pursuits at college.

Rutgers University Essay Prompt #4

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. how has this gratitude affected or motivated you.

This prompt is a good choice for students who’ve had a heartwarming or unexpected experience of gratitude towards someone. However, this shouldn’t be as simple as a nice memory. You’ll want to write about an experience that has had a significant impact on you or your life. If you weren’t ultimately changed by the experience, it’s probably not a compelling enough topic for your Rutgers supplemental essay.

When crafting this essay, context is important. How can you bring us into the specific instance or experience that evoked gratitude within you? Consider your relationship to this person before and after this moment you shared. Use thoughtful and specific details to show us what happened and why it was surprising. Be sure to discuss the lasting impact of this gratitude on your outlook, relationships, or personal development. And emphasize how it will impact your future endeavors.

Rutgers University Essay Prompt #5

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others..

This is a great opportunity to share a moment of growth. Change is a part of life, and we are constantly developing our perspective on ourselves and the world. Being able to reflect on the moments that helped you grow into the person you are today demonstrates wisdom and maturity. 

To write this Rutgers supplemental essay, you’ll need to consider the before and after. Establishing who you were before this moment is critical to showing the value of your personal growth. When describing the accomplishment, event, or realization, be sure to explain its context and significance to your life. Reflect on the lasting impact of this growth and how it has influenced your relationships, goals, and approach to challenges. Discuss how this period of personal growth has shaped your character and future ambitions, emphasizing its relevance to your future.

Rutgers University Essay Prompt #6

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. why does it captivate you what or who do you turn to when you want to learn more.

This essay is all about your deepest passions and intellectual curiosity. There are multiple aspects to this prompt, so you’ll want to be sure you answer it in its entirety. You need to address the topic, why you are interested in it, and how you expand your understanding of it.

Beginning this Rutgers supplemental essay may be a little tricky. Still, one way you can tackle this essay is by describing how you engage with this subject. What are the activities or pursuits that allow you to delve deeper into your passion? Why do you find them compelling?

Besides simply describing the topic itself, discuss the impact of this interest on your personal development and your future goals. If it has broadened your horizons or contributed to your growth, it’s a great topic for this essay. Conclude by reflecting on the role of this engagement in your life and how it drives you to continue your studies.

Rutgers University Essay Prompt #7

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. it can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design..

The flexibility of this prompt makes it perfect for students with a unique story that doesn’t neatly fit into the other Rutgers essay prompts. If you are crafting your own prompt, be sure to have a clear definition in mind before you start writing. You still want your essay to be focused, so you need a driving question to relate back to. Like with any prompt, your essay should reveal aspects of your character, values, beliefs, or perspectives that are important to you.

To craft your response to this Rutgers supplemental essay, choose a topic that holds personal significance. Explain its importance in your life or its relevance to your application to Rutgers. Share your narrative or insights, using vivid details and personal reflections to engage the reader. End your Rutgers supplemental essay by highlighting how this topic or story showcases your unique qualities or experiences.

How to write Rutgers supplemental essays

You may notice the Rutgers essay prompts are very personal and require creativity. Therefore, when selecting and responding to these Rutgers essay prompts, it’s important to focus on these three things.

Self-Reflection is Key

Before writing your Rutgers supplemental essay, do some self-reflection. Who are you? What matters to you? Why are you a great candidate for your school? Through this self-reflection, you can get a picture of how you may differ from other applicants. Try to define the aspects of your personality that are important to you or you feel most proud of. Consider the experiences that led you to develop these traits, then see how those experiences connect with the Rutgers essay prompts.

Choose a Prompt that Fits You

After self-reflection, it’s important to choose a Rutgers supplemental essay prompt that aligns well with your personal experiences and stories. For instance, while reflecting, let’s say there was a significant challenge that you overcame that shaped your perspective. To share this story, you may want to consider the Rutgers essay prompts #2 or #5. Similarly, if you have a strong passion that is central to who you are, you may want to choose prompt #1 or #6. Ultimately, you want to choose Rutgers essay prompts that showcase the qualities that make you a valuable prospective student. 

Tell a Story

Considering the highly personal nature of your Rutgers supplemental essay, you can be creative with your storytelling. Use chronology and story arcs to build your Rutgers supplemental essay structure and include storytelling elements like dialogue and imagery. Lastly, be sure to show rather than tell your qualities. For instance, instead of saying you “love reading,” describe the hours you spend reading books. Remember, most stories have lessons or morals, so don’t leave your reader wondering what the point of your essay was.

By following these steps, you will be sure to capture admissions attention with your personality and unique experiences. Want more tips for writing your Rutgers supplemental essay? You’ll find additional advice in this CollegeAdvisor article entitled “ How to Write Better Essays .” 

Optional Rutgers Essay

In addition to the required Rutgers supplemental essay, Rutgers gives students the opportunity to submit an optional Rutgers essay. The prompt for this optional Rutgers essay is an opportunity to provide context surrounding your academic performance:

Rutgers University Optional Essay Prompt

Do you have any family responsibilities or circumstances, such as a severe illness, that have negatively affected your academic performance (650 words maximum).

You’ll find this essay under the Writing section of the Common App. If you answer “Yes” to the above question, a text box will populate for you to enter your response.

Is the Optional Rutgers essay really optional?

Yes, the optional Rutgers essay is truly optional. The optional Rutgers essay is a valuable platform to provide additional context or insights into your application. This can be especially helpful if you’ve had a specific period of lower grades or a long-term barrier to your education. However, not everyone has extenuating circumstances that have affected their ability to perform well in school. 

It’s essential to use this option judiciously and genuinely. Therefore, if you do not have an applicable situation to justify your response, then don’t write the optional Rutgers essay. Ultimately, if you choose to submit the optional Rutgers essay, make sure you provide a true and meaningful perspective.

What does Rutgers look for in an applicant?

Rutgers University, like many other universities, looks for a holistic set of qualities and qualifications in its applicants. Here are some key factors that Rutgers typically considers when evaluating applicants:

1. Academic Achievement

Rutgers places significant emphasis on your high school academic performance. This includes your GPA, the rigor of your coursework (such as honors, AP, or IB classes), and your class rank, if available. They want to see that you have taken your high school studies seriously and have performed well.

2. Standardized Test Scores

Currently, Rutgers University is test optional through the 2024 admissions cycle. That said, standardized test scores (e.g., SAT or ACT) may still be considered if submitted.Therefore, if you believe your score can help your admissions decision, be sure to submit it to admissions. 

3. Extracurricular Activities

Rutgers values involvement in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, volunteer work, and leadership roles. They want to see that you’ve been active in your school or community and have demonstrated a commitment to your interests. 

4. Essays and Personal Statements

Your Rutgers University supplemental essays provide an opportunity to showcase your writing skills and offer insights into who you are. Highlight the best and most personal qualities of your personality, experiences, and aspirations.

It’s important to note that Rutgers University has multiple campuses: Camden , Newark , and New Brunswick . Specific admission criteria and requirements may vary slightly between campuses. It’s advisable to check the official Rutgers University admissions website for the most up-to-date information and specific campus requirements.

Where is Rutgers University?

Rutgers is a multi-campus public research university in the United States. It’s located in the state of New Jersey, with multiple campuses spread throughout the state. Here’s an overview of the main campuses:

New Brunswick Campus

The largest and most well-known campus of Rutgers, it is located in New Brunswick. This campus houses several schools, including the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering, and the Rutgers Business School.

Newark Campus

Located in the city of Newark, this campus offers a diverse urban environment. It is home to Rutgers Business School-Newark and Rutgers Law School, among others.

Camden Campus

Situated in Camden, New Jersey, this campus is known for its strong emphasis on the liberal arts and sciences. The Rutgers Law School is also located here.

Rutgers is well-connected to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia. The university’s multiple campuses offers students a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities.

Additional information about Rutgers University

While this article emphasizes Rutgers University supplemental essays, it’s important to remember why you are writing them. The goal of your Rutgers supplemental essay is to highlight how your experience is a perfect fit for the university. Therefore, beyond knowing your personal strengths, you must also identify how those align with the university’s values and offerings . By doing this, you can find success in the Rutgers admission process, similar to CollegeAdvisor’s former advisee, Shrushti Talluri .

Rutgers University offers various academic programs and majors across its various campuses. Students have the opportunity to choose from over 150 undergraduate majors. These majors cover a wide range of disciplines, including arts and sciences, engineering, business, health sciences, and many more. The university’s diverse academic offerings allow students to pursue their interests and career goals.

Beyond academic majors, Rutgers University boasts a rich and diverse extracurricular environment with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities. Rutgers has over 600 registered student organizations . The vast range of student organizations provides opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and community engagement.

To ensure Rutgers is financially feasible for you to attend, be sure to understand their tuition and fees and do additional research on scholarships . If you truly are interested in Rutgers University, schedule a campus visit (or virtual visit !) to ensure the university is the perfect fit for you.

Rutgers Supplemental Essays: 5 Tips for Future Applicants

You may have begun this article by asking yourself how to get into Rutgers University. Well, hopefully, you now know that securing admission to Rutgers University is a goal within reach– if you have strong Rutgers University supplemental essays. 

Rutgers University supplemental essays play a pivotal role in achieving that aspiration. Your Rutgers essays provide a platform for you to present your unique experiences, values, and strengths to the admissions committee. By choosing the right Rutgers essay prompt and crafting a compelling, authentic response, you can increase your chances of becoming a part of Rutgers’ diverse and thriving academic community.

Here is a final list of five tips for future applicants:

Five tips for future applicants

1. self-reflection is key.

Before choosing a Rutgers supplemental essay prompt, take time for self-reflection. Understand who you are, what matters to you, and why you’re a valuable candidate for Rutgers. This self-awareness will guide you in choosing the most fitting prompt.

2. Choose a Rutgers Essay Prompt that Fits You

Align your personal experiences and stories with a Rutgers supplemental essay prompt that resonates with your journey. Select the Rutgers essay prompt that best showcases the qualities that make you an asset to the university.

3. Get Creative With Your Storytelling

Given the personal nature of your Rutgers essay, be creative in your storytelling. Use storytelling elements like dialogue and imagery. Show rather than tell your qualities, and avoid clichéd language or stories. Strive for originality and authenticity.

4. Optional Rutgers Essay

While the optional Rutgers essay is indeed optional, it can provide valuable context if you have unique circumstances to share. Use it judiciously and genuinely, and only if it’s true to your situation and enhances your application.

5. Understand What Rutgers Looks For

Rutgers University is test-optional and values applicants’ academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and the Rutgers supplemental essay. Understand what Rutgers seeks in an applicant and aim to present those qualities in your application.

By following these tips, you can navigate the Rutgers University application process effectively and easily. And, you’ll be sure to create compelling Rutgers University supplemental essays that reflect your individuality and strength.

Now, we hope that you’re ready to apply. We wish you the best of luck with writing your Rutgers University supplemental essays and completing your application!

This essay guide was written by senior advisor, Ashley Hollins . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Supplemental Essay Guide 2024-25

What do the 2024-25 supplemental essay prompts really mean, and how should you approach them? CEA's experts are here to break them all down.

Acceptance Rate

Undergrad population.

• Liberal Arts (52)

* Tuition filtering is based on out-of-state fees

Agnes Scott College 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Alvernia University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide  

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, rutgers essay prompts for 2023-2024 applicants.

I'm starting to work on my Rutgers application and I'm trying to find the essay prompts for 2023-2024. Can anyone help me out? Also, any advice on how to approach these prompts would be greatly appreciated!

I understand you're looking for the Rutgers essay prompts for the 2023-2024 application cycle. While I don't have the exact prompts in front of me, I recommend checking the Rutgers University undergraduate admissions website for up-to-date information on their essay requirements. Keep an eye out for updates, as they typically release essay prompts during the summer months before the application cycle begins.

As for advice on how to approach writing your essay, consider the following tips:

1. Read and understand the prompt carefully: Take time to fully understand what the essay question is asking, and ensure that your essay addresses all aspects of the prompt.

2. Be genuine and authentic: Write about something that is meaningful to you, and share your unique perspective. Avoid cliché topics and focus on conveying a personal story that says something significant about who you are.

3. Stay organized: Create an outline to ensure that your essay has a clear structure and logical flow. This will help you stay focused on addressing the prompt while maintaining coherence.

4. Show, don't tell: Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points, rather than relying on generic statements. This will create a more engaging and memorable essay.

5. Edit and proofread: This is a key step in the writing process. Make sure to review your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation, as well as clarity and coherence. It is a good idea to have someone else read your essay to provide feedback and catch any errors or areas for improvement.

Remember that your essay is an opportunity to showcase your personality, strengths, and interests to the admissions committee. It is important to be honest, engaging, and thoughtful. Lastly, don't forget to give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and revise your essay. The more time and effort you put into your writing, the better your essay will be. Good luck with your application!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

How to Get Into Rutgers University: Acceptance Rate & Stats

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 5/27/24

Rutgers University is known as an academic, health, and research powerhouse. Read on to learn more about this university and how to join it.

Navigating the admissions process for Rutgers University can be exciting and stressful, but with the right knowledge and strategic approach, you can turn your aspirations into reality. We’ll explain everything you need to know about how to get into Rutgers University.

Rutgers University Acceptance Rate: 66%

Rutgers University has an acceptance rate of 66% , meaning you have a high chance of getting into this school! Getting into this school is moderately competitive, so ensure you have a strong application. 

Source : Common Data Set

Rutgers University Early Decision Acceptance Rate

Rutgers University doesn’t offer early decision acceptance , so students cannot apply at earlier deadlines.

How Hard Is It to Get Into Rutgers University?

WIth an acceptance rate of 66%, Rutgers University is somewhat selective. Students can increase their chances of admission by making their application more competitive.

Rutgers University Admission Statistics

While your cumulative GPA will be considered, ensure you receive the highest marks in these core courses to demonstrate your academic merit.

Rutgers University Average GPA: 3.7

The average GPA for successful Rutgers University applicants is 3.7. Your weighted GPA will be considered heavily in the selection process. Here’s a table of the average GPA of admitted students for the past three years:

This table will give you an idea of the GPA you’ll need to get accepted. 

Rutgers University Average SAT Score: 1375

The average SAT score at Rutgers University is 1375. This is higher than the national average SAT score of 1050.

While Rutgers is adopting a test-optional policy until 2024, students may still submit SAT scores if they believe it will strengthen their application. Although Rutgers is test-optional, those applying to the Rutgers-Camden BS/DO or Rutgers-Newark 7-year BA/MD joint-degree programs will be required to submit at least one standardized test score ( ACT or SAT ). 

Rutgers University Average SAT

Here’s a table of ​​Rutgers University SAT scores for the past three years: 

What Is Rutgers University Looking for in Applicants?

Having a competitive GPA, extracurriculars, AP classes, and other achievements are all part of how Rutgers University evaluates applicants. In addition, having a compelling personal essay and other achievements can help you stand out. From the common data set, the most important factors are your GPA and the rigor of your courses.

Source : Rutgers University

Rutgers University Key Takeaways From Rutgers University's Common Data Set

From the Common Data Set, it’s evident that Rutgers University prioritizes academic factors for admissions, such as GPA and difficulty of courses. Other criteria used to assess students are their application essays, extracurricular activities, as well as character and personality qualities.

Rutgers University Admissions Requirements

To get into Rutgers University, aim for an ACT score of at least 30 or an SAT score of 1375 or above. Maintain a GPA of 3.7 or higher and engage in diverse extracurriculars to demonstrate your excellence beyond the classroom.

Rutgers requires its students to submit the following application materials to be considered for enrollment: 

Academia Profile

One of the principal factors determining your admission to Rutgers University is your academic profile. This includes to following:

• Fulfilling subject requirements
• AP or honors courses
• Weighted GPA
• Cumulative rank
• SAT / ACT scores
• English Proficiency Exam (if relevant)

Other subjective factors are taken into account. These include:

• Personal essay
• College prep programs
• Extracurriculars
• Achievements
• Work history
• Familial commitments
• Socioeconomic background

You should always remember that you’re more than a number. Consider Yui, who leveraged her skills despite having a 3.6 GPA. She applied to 10 colleges and was admitted to 6, including Rutgers, but ultimately chose to attend Cornell Engineering. By highlighting relevant community involvement, Quad was able to help her become a competitive candidate.

Source : Quad Education

High School Course Requirements

Depending on the program you plan on applying to, there are certain credentials you’ll need to complete in high school:

• Four years of English 
• Zero to two years of a foreign language
• Three to four years of Mathematics (including Algebra, Geometry, and, for some programs, Precalculus) 
• Zero to two years of Science (of Biology and Chemistry or Physics and Chemistry, depending on your program)
• Five to nine other academic courses

Application Fee

A required non-refundable application fee of $70 is paid through either Rutgers Application or Common App. Rutgers must receive the fee or a fee waiver before an applicant’s application will be considered complete and ready for review.

GED Students Requirements

Applicants who hold a GED diploma/certificate must provide their official GED results. Alongside these results, submitting transcripts documenting any high school coursework is essential.

English Proficiency Test Requirements For International Students

If an applicant’s undergraduate education was in a non-English speaking country, you must submit a current TOEFL or IELTS score within two years. Exemptions apply to Permanent Residents, US citizens, or international applicants with at least three years of English-instructed undergraduate studies or a master's degree. 

Minimum scores include:

• Paper-based TOEFL: 550
• Computer-based TOEFL: 213
• Specific section requirements for IBT TOEFL, or an IELTS score of 7. 

Proficiency in English is essential, but some programs may have stricter language requirements; consult your program for details.

Letters of Recommendation

Admissions do not consider letters of recommendation, so there’s no need to ask for one . Instead, the Rutgers application offers various sections where applicants can highlight their achievements, activities, community service, and personal experiences.

Extracurricular Activities

On your Rutgers application , you’ll be required to fill out a section about the extracurriculars you pursued throughout high school. You’ll be asked to list up to five activities in order of importance.

There will also be an Awards section where you can list up to five awards received, a Volunteer section for any unpaid service you participated in, an Employment section, and a Pre-College Program section.

The final Natural Disasters and Emergency Situation section is optional and will ask you to check off all the boxes that apply to you. It will include prompts relating to COVID-19 and other circumstantial issues that may have affected your education. 

Talent Assessment

Students interested in applying to the Mason Gross School of Arts will be required to submit an audition, interview, or portfolio as part of their application.

Self-Reported Academic Record 

Without interim transcripts, the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) lets high school seniors report their academic details, including grades and GPAs. It's mandatory for current seniors but not for graduates or transfer students. 

Applicants can use their high school transcript as a reference, covering grades 9-11 and indicating grade 12 courses in progress as 'In Progress.' Ensure accuracy, as discrepancies can impact admission. International students can use SRAR but must also send official records and certificates from an educational authority upon enrollment.

Transfer Student Requirements

Transfer students must submit the application fee, college transcripts, and an essay (which is recommended). 

Rutgers University Application Process and Deadlines

Students must submit a Rutgers-specific application through the school’s online portal. They must identify their campus, school, and program preferences and complete all sections to be considered for admission. Rutgers University decision date

Keep these Rutgers University decision dates in mind to avoid any delays with your application:

Source : Rutgers’ Application Deadlines

Ensure that you meet the Rutgers University application deadline. While students can submit their applications past the suggested deadlines, doing so will limit their chances of admission, as Rutgers accepts students on a rolling basis. 

Students who submit past the suggested deadlines will also receive their decisions later than the listed notification deadlines.

Rutgers University Regular Decision Deadline

The suggested deadline for regular Rutgers University applicants is early December. Students should have their application ready by the end of the year.

Rutgers University Early Action/Early Decision Deadline  

Students applying to Rutgers University as early action applicants should apply by early November to meet the deadline. Having your application ready at this time will ensure you’re able to apply for early action. 

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Into Rutgers University

The most effective strategy to boost your chances of getting into Rutgers University is to increase your academic promise . This can be done by achieving a high GPA while handling a challenging course selection and having a competitive SAT/ACT score. You can also focus on several other qualitative factors:

Participate In Various Extracurriculars

Your application will ask you to separate your extracurricular participation , work, and volunteer experiences . You should pursue activities from each section. While you don’t have to participate in five extracurriculars or pick up a new job each year, you should stick to at least one activity per section for several months or preferably years.

Choose Your Essay Topic Wisely

Your supplemental essay will give the committee insight into your writing skills and help them connect with you more. 

Choose a topic you feel most compelled to write about, and keep your answer simple! Use language you understand and focus on the topic at hand. Proofread your essay several times before submission to show off your impeccable writing skills.

Only Write the SAT/ACT if Necessary

Considering the stress you’ll already be under trying to apply to your top choices on time and graduating from high school with the necessary GPA, you should only write the SAT or ACT if you believe it’ll strengthen your application.

In other words, if your GPA is not quite high enough to be considered competitive, receiving an SAT or ACT score in or above the expected range can make up for this weak spot in your application.

However, if you already have a competitive GPA, you can avoid the added stress and opt out of writing the SAT/ACT, as it will not give you any additional advantage. 

Rutgers University Essay Prompts

Students will have to submit an essay addressing one of the following subjects:

• Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
• The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
• Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
• Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
• Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
• Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
• Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

It’s important to note that unless you apply through Rutgers Application, these Rutgers University essay prompts are actually Common App personal statements.

If you’re unsure how to get started, take a look at this video, where one of our admissions experts breaks down her top tips for writing standout college essays:

How to Prepare for the Rutgers University Interview

Rutgers University has a list of interviewing tips that applicants can follow. One key theme to remember is to understand yourself as an applicant. This means being able to confidently articulate your strong suits and explain any shortcomings in your profile. In extension, you should have a prepared list of questions that you’re interested in about Rutgers University.

Consider some interview tips from Marina, Wharton and Booth School of Business alumni, who’s been a member of the admissions committee at the University of Chicago as well as an interviewer at UChicago and UPenn.

She suggests diving in with mock interviews right away as a method of improving communication:

“Sometimes you just need to practice articulating things clearly to someone else…sometimes it can be even more helpful than writing things down to just like immediately engage in a mock interview.”

Also, being genuine and authentic can help foster a more collaborative atmosphere with your interviewer:

“Remember to be friendly and smile, and try to engage the person as you would in like real life if you came across somebody interesting to talk to.”

Rutgers University Tuition and Fees

Rutgers is considered an affordable university with lower tuition costs than many similar-ranking institutions. Here’s a breakdown of its annual tuition:

Source : Rutgers Tuition and Fees

To help students cover these costs, Rutgers offers comprehensive financial aid to its students in the form of merit and needs-based grants.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Rutgers provides financial aid through FAFSA to help you pay for tuition. Students may be offered financial aid packages—a combination of various types of aid, such as Rutgers University merit scholarships, awards, grants, loans, and work-study. 

FAQs: Getting Into Rutgers University

For any remaining questions about how to get into Rutgers University, read on to find your answers.

1. How Hard Is It to Get Into Rutgers University?

Considering its high acceptance rate, Rutgers is relatively easy to get into. 

2. Can I Get Into Rutgers With a 3.0 GPA?

Yes, a 3.0 GPA will put you within the median competitive range for the majority of Rutgers’ programs. This equates to a weighted GPA of around 3.7 .

Ensure you earn a high GPA, even a 4.0 wouldn’t hurt! It always helps to aim high and be as competitive an applicant as possible.

3. Can I Get Into Rutgers with a 2.4 GPA?

A 2.4 unweighted GPA will put you at around a 3.3 weighted GPA. This GPA is considered to be on the lower end, but you may still be considered a competitive applicant for certain programs.

4. Is Rutgers an Ivy League School?

No, Rutgers is not an Ivy League school.

5. Is Rutgers Prestigious?

Yes, Rutgers is considered one of the top public research schools in the nation. It is well known for its distinguished faculty, academics, and health-related programs.

6. Do You Need to Write an Essay for Rutgers?

Yes, students must submit one essay as part of the Rutgers application process. Students are given seven essay topics to choose from for this admission material.

7. How Many Letters of Recommendation Do I Need to Submit to Apply to Rutgers?

Rutgers does not require letters of recommendation as part of the application process. The application process provides adequate opportunity for students to describe the accomplishments, activities, honors, awards, and experiences that would otherwise be shared through recommendation letters.

8. How Much is Tuition at Rutgers University?

Resident tuition at Rutgers is around $17,000. Students who are not residents of New Jersey will pay around $35,000.

9. What Is the Transfer Acceptance Rate at Rutgers University?

The Rutgers University transfer acceptance rate is around 55%. On the other hand, the Rutgers University yield rate for this year is 28%. Compared to last year, the number of applicants has decreased by 3.49% (1,507).

Final Thoughts

Now that we’ve covered how to get into Rutgers University, you’ll be set when applying! Rutgers prides itself on being students’ home away from home, where they’re immersed into a supportive yet academically rigorous environment! Keep the deadlines, admission requirements, and tips shared in this guide to ensure you too, can join Rutgers’ renowned community!

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Rutgers University Undergraduate College Application Essays

These Rutgers University college application essays were written by students accepted at Rutgers University. All of our sample college essays include the question prompt and the year written. Please use these sample admission essays responsibly.

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College Application Essays accepted by Rutgers University

A simple smile merudh vijay patel, rutgers university.

"Merudh, get up, get up!" It was four in the morning, and I was four years old. The heart-pounding sound of my dad's voice woke me out of a deep sleep. As I peeked through my bedroom door, I saw my father bolt out of our house with my mother in...

A Commitment to Change Anonymous

For most of my adolescent life, I had always hidden behind the somewhat comforting excuses for my weight: "You're just big boned," "You just have a slow metabolism," "Someday you'll grow into your body." But there was no denying the obvious truth:...

How Multiculturalism Shaped Me Anonymous

I grew up overseas, frequently visited my home country of Bangladesh, and have interacted with a great variety of people – all experiences that have shaped the person I am today. I have traveled to over twenty countries and lived for an extended...

How I Will Contribute to Rutgers University Anonymous

Though I am a white male who has grown up in the predominantly uniform communities of Englishtown and Monroe, my life experiences have been far from homogeneous or commonplace. My deep commitments to different clubs and organizations have deeply...

Diversity Anonymous

Although I may appear to be a typical male suburbanite from the predominantly white Monroe Township, I have intimately known and collaborated with a most diverse group of staff members through my experiences with the Monroe Falcon newspaper. As...

Lesson Well Learned Anonymous

The black and white keys mesmerized me, as always. They were of another ancestry - Steinway – different from the Yamaha I owned; but as I sat on the meticulously handcrafted ebony bench, I felt at home. My hands floated effortlessly upward, and...

Culture Shocked in Monroe Anonymous

In the summer before high school started, my family completed the year-long process of moving from our apartment in Brooklyn to the quiet suburbs of New Jersey. This extreme culture shock during such an important and transitory phase of my life...

A Month in Ghana Anonymous

For the first time, I was an outcast. The minority. The one who didn’t fit in. I was a speck of white in a sea of black, and everyone around me made sure that I realized that. I was in an unfamiliar country, across the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded...

Finding Purpose as a Nanny Anonymous

As I watch the edges on the shiny four-by-six memories that I pinned to my wall warp and curl, I cannot help but feel my heart ache. I spent an entire school year and summer investing my time, energy, and love into my job as a nanny for six...

Modesty. Simplicity. Practicality. Anonymous

I could not understand. There was no sign of trash on the streets. There was no trace of graffiti on the benches or walls. Everything was impeccably clean and simple in the middle of Stockholm, Sweden, with its 780,000 inhabitants. It is still a...

It’s a typical week during the autumn season. After school on this short Wednesday, I stay at school to lead the community service group, A.R.T.E., with my friend. We plan and organize for the upcoming “Fall Fest” at our school. After a short but...

Success In Humiliation Anonymous

It was May 3, 2007, a warm, bright day. Every field was filled with blooming flowers and all the trees were covered with lime green leaves; everything seemed beautiful and normal besides this madness. I was in the back seat of a police car that...

David Wolkoff's eBay Store David Wolkoff

When I was fifteen I borrowed $200 from my father, bought a broken Sidekick phone on eBay, watched YouTube videos to learn how to repair it, and re-sold it for an $80 profit. That was the start of David Wolkoff’s Store, an eBay business, which has...

My Greatest Influence Rebecca Seibert

My greatest inspiration, and my greatest influence, comes from not just one person but from a group. This group is my non-biological family, and happens to be a small, homegrown nonprofit organization. Without this group, I would not be the person...

A Vibrant Student for a Vibrant Community Kelvin Yao

I am an Asian, upper middle class, suburban kid, and I am not really that diverse if one simply looks at skin color, race, ethnicity, place of origin, or religion. But diversity is more than simple geography or socioeconomic status, especially in...

The Depth of Life Anonymous

Although I woke up that morning and most likely performed my usual routine, I cannot recall what was going through my mind. I can tell you for sure that I had no idea that day would end up altering the way I value life. Before the sun ruptured the...

A Dream Benjamin Gordon

I had a dream last night that my most revered mentors came together to weave their unique threads into the fabric that ultimately became my Common Application essay.

Kurt Vonnegut, my favorite novelist, was in charge of the introduction to this...

Experience is Key Anonymous

As I walk down the bustling streets, merchants are shouting for me to buy their various goods and children zoom by me as they play with one another. I attempt crossing the busy street to be confronted by the incessant honking of horns. I smile...

Looking Past the Rearview and into the Future Anonymous

Computers, video games, iPhones. Fuel injected, cereal box import rice rockets dominate the streets. Hybrid cars and green technology. Pop, rap and screamo. For better or for worse, times have changed. While modern applications serve their...

Excellence Anonymous

Excellence: a virtue, an ideal, a lifestyle. Excellence has not only come to embody myself; my actions, from their very core, induce excellence. A misconception exists that success is an indication of excellence—in fact, excellence is an...

The Climb Anonymous

People’s cultures are like fingerprints--no two are ever the same. Although I was born in the United States, I can truly say that I have grown up with two different cultures. My family originates from Egypt, and I am the first generation to be...

Never give up so easily Anonymous

Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity.

--Hippocrates

I am fortunate to have grown up in a medical family: my grandfather and his brothers are traditional Chinese medical doctors. In fact, since my parents took...

My Intertidal Inspiration Ana Amalia Calvo

I stare out from the bay, my hip waders sunken into the mushy sand as I admire the smooth and confident glide of a blue heron landing on a rusted rack off the next sandbar. My father and I share an affinity towards nature, as well as an...

Space. The Final Frontier Anonymous

These are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise. Its ongoing mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and civilizations, to boldly go where no one has gone before ...

People sit on their couches awaiting the first-ever episode...

Recent Questions about Rutgers University

The Question and Answer section for Rutgers University is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Would This Be a bad idea for a College Essay?

I think this really depends on the context of what is expected for your essay. Unfortunately this is only a short-answer space about specific literature.

Do my quotes strongly support the author's purpose which is to inform us on the importance of finding a purpose, path, and journey in your life?

I'm not sure what novel your quotes pertain to, but I would say that they seem to fit in with the categories you've cited.

How does the apartment building itself create problems for the Younger family as they begin the day? Since the family has to share a bathroom they fight over the bathroom.

From the text:

Moreover, a section of this room, for it is not really a room unto itself, though the landlord's lease would make it seem so, slopes backward to provide a small kitchen area, where the family prepares the meals that are eaten in the...

Rutgers Honors prompt

Hello-- This is the prompt for the Rutgers Honors College essay. What are they trying to ask? (I guess Im not smart enough for Honors if I cant even help my child interpret the question!)

“Please share with us your concept of an educational challenge that interests you, and how you anticipate meeting this challenge at Rutgers through your involvement in an honors program.”

To clarify…i think they are asking for a societal problem but why are they assuming every student is interested in solving an issue related to education in their next 4 yrs?? What if they are focused on curing cancer or reversing climate change? Usually the questions are more broad so all students can have an authentic answer.

My son was puzzled too. After few discussions and brainstorming with me, I think the question is not asking the challenge in education field but the challenge a student interests/seeks when in school.

Thank you! She found more detail on the Rutgers website:

• In the question, the term “educational challenge” refers to a concept you might encounter in the classroom, in a service-based setting, during research or artistry, or in your everyday life; an issue you envision confronting. The choice is yours and you have some latitude.
• But please note, this question is less about what you define as the problem, and more about how you will engage in an honors program to address this challenge. That is the facet on which we hope you will focus.
• Please do not restate or iterate your accomplishments or what is already on your resume and application. Use this statement to tell us something about you that we don’t already know.

As illustrated by the post by @albanat , Rutgers has given a response in a generalized fashion.

It will be interesting to see if the new Honor prompt (first year they have done it) changes their admission criteria. Recently it has mostly just been GPA (not even test scores).

I’m also interested in seeing the outcomes of adding an essa!

so they don’t have essay in the past? That’s why my son’s friend knows nothing about the prompt and she told him she did not have that last year.

Correct, no essay prior to this year. There wasn’t any Honors application at all, or even checkbox. They either invited you or they didn’t based on your regular app info.

we interpreted the prompt as what educational challenge you personally feel that an honors program can help you overcome so say someone is looking to overcome the challenge of feeling lost in a big school, being in an honors program gives them access to smaller classes. another educational challenge is access to research opportunities so how would being enrolled in an honors program then allow a student to overcome that challenge?

they are going to get a lot of different answers and various interpretations of the prompt. with this being the first year they are on the CA and even allowing students to raise their hands for consideration into the various honors paths at Rutgers, they still will use scores and grades but just get a better idea around how the student thinks and writes. there is no wrong answer to this prompt because everyone defines educational challenge differently and no one should be judged on what they consider challenging.

also, again, with this being the first year Rutgers is using the CA, this is just another way for them to sort out the applications because they are going to get inundated with even more than they have ever received in past years.

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Rutgers University Admission Essays

Building bridges and embracing diversity: my interest in biochemistry at rutgers university.

I have always held a deep-seated belief that higher education is a pathway to building and cultivating skills that will help to both enrich a human being’s character and refine them as someone ultimately seeking a career to support themselves and their family in the…

The Wall: College Admission Essay Sample

The world had no flaws as long as I had markers and crayons in hand. My mother was newly divorced when we moved to the United States from Russia. Upon our arrival to America, my family, consisting of her and my brother, was penniless. I…

The Real Housewives of Rome: College Admission Essay Sample

I don’t know what possessed her to do it, but at the of end sophomore year, after we read Julius Caesar, Mrs. Freda decided to assign her classes a video project. At the time, Andin was also in this class, so it just seemed natural…

The Climb: College Admission Essay Sample

People’s cultures are like fingerprints–no two are ever the same. Although I was born in the United States, I can truly say that I have grown up with two different cultures. My family originates from Egypt, and I am the first generation to be born…

Why I Never Miss the Bus

It was May 3, 2007, a warm, bright day. Every field was filled with blooming flowers and all the trees were covered with lime green leaves; everything seemed beautiful and normal besides this madness. I was in the back seat of a police car that…

Physics, Philosophy, and Philharmonia: College Admission Essay Sample

Albert Einstein remarked, “If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician. I often think in music…I cannot tell you if I would have done any creative work of importance, but I do know that I get most joy in life out…

My Greatest Influence: My Family

My greatest inspiration, and my greatest influence, comes from not just one person but from a group. This group is my non-biological family, and happens to be a small, homegrown nonprofit organization. Without this group, I would not be the person I am today. When…

How I Will Contribute to Rutgers University: College Admission Essay Sample

Though I am a white male who has grown up in the predominantly uniform communities of Englishtown and Monroe, my life experiences have been far from homogeneous or commonplace. My deep commitments to different clubs and organizations have deeply influenced the way I perceive the…

The Impact of Multiculturalism on My Identiy

I grew up overseas, frequently visited my home country of Bangladesh, and have interacted with a great variety of people – all experiences that have shaped the person I am today. I have traveled to over twenty countries and lived for an extended period of…

After Babysitting: Redefining my Purpose

As I watch the edges on the shiny four-by-six babysitting memories that I pinned to my wall warp and curl, I cannot help but feel my heart ache. I spent an entire school year and summer investing my time, energy, and love into my job…

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Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Secondary Essay Prompts

These are the secondary application essay prompts for Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. To put your best foot forward and maximize your chance of an interview invitation, visit our secondary application editing page .

about Rutgers New Jersey Medical School

Secondary Deadline : December 15, 2023 Secondary Fee : $95 FAP Waiver : Full Fee Waived CASPer Required : No Screens Applications : No Accepts Application Updates : Yes/Email

The mission of New Jersey Medical School is to educate students, physicians, and scientists to meet society’s current and future healthcare needs through patient-centered education; pioneering research; innovative clinical, rehabilitative and preventive care; and collaborative community outreach.

To create, transmit and utilize knowledge to shape the future of medicine and to enhance the quality of life for the people of New Jersey.

Personal respect for patients, students, staff, faculty and community Passionate commitment to excellence in service, research and training Celebration of diversity in culture, ethnicity, religion, gender and individual goals Professionalism in all conduct Commitment to serving needs of constituents Progress through partnerships

1. If you have participated in any program(s) affiliated with NJMS (i.e. summer programs, research, high school programs, internships, volunteering, graduate school, etc.), please indicate below. Please provide name(s) and date(s) of program participation:

This question is relatively self-explanatory and requires prior involvement with Rutgers NJMS to be answered. If you do have this experience, list it and include the role you played and one line about a skill you gained or lesson learned from that experience.

2. If you have any relatives currently enrolled or who have graduated from NJMS please provide name(s), relationship to you and graduation year in the space provided below:

Answer as appropriate based on any prior connections.

3. If you have any other connections to NJMS, or Rutgers University, please provide details below:

4. If you previously applied to NJMS through AMCAS or an accelerated program, please provide the following: Program name(s) and Application year(s):

Answer as appropriate based on any prior applications.

5. Please indicate below if you previously met with either Dr. Heinrich or Ms. Rivero (prior to July 1, 2018). With whom did you meet and date(s):

Dr. George F. Heinrich is the Associate Dean for Admissions at Rutgers NJMS. Mercedes Rivero, M.S. is the Assistant Dean for Admissions at Rutgers NJMS. List any prior meetings as appropriate based on previous applications.

6. NJMS recognizes the importance of diversity in the medical profession. We understand that the applicant pool is multidimensional and as such we would like to learn more about you: How do you self-identify Racially How do you self-identify Ethnically How do you self-identify Culturally

Be sure to respond to all 3 components of this prompt. Consider how they make you unique and help define you as a person. Brainstorm how these traits affect your personal values and influence your desire to be a physician. Consider how these traits will help you interface with diverse populations which is a crucial skill for any physician. It may be helpful to use examples/anecdotes from the past or describe individuals or experiences which have been particularly influential and formative for you.

7. Integrity is a core value at NJMS. Please share your thoughts on Integrity. Additionally, we seek students who are self-aware, resilient and adaptable. Discuss a personal or professional challenge you have experienced and how you resolved it.

There are two components to this question, so be sure to answer them both adequately. First, consider what integrity means to you. How does this play into being an effective medical student, resident and physician. Speak honestly about your thoughts and values. Perhaps describe an individual who is a role model for you and demonstrates these ideals. Next consider a time when you encountered a particular challenge personally of professionally. It may have been a challenge within yourself to achieve higher or push through an obstacle. Perhaps it was a challenge to resolve a dispute with a colleague. Describe how you overcame this challenge, what traits that required and what lessons you learned. Try to bring out the traits they describe in the prompt: self-awareness, resilience, and adaptability.

8. NJMS is committed to fostering a collaborative and cohesive environment. With this in mind, how will you contribute to our medical school community?

The first strategy to answering this question is doing some research on the program website to understand some of its nuances. Is it very strong in a particular field of research, or perhaps in community clinical work for the underserved? If one of these aspects aligns with your strengths or interests, explain how you are a great fit for this reason. Second, brainstorm what is unique about your background. Is it your place of birth, your family, your culture, or your path to medicine. Also consider prior adversity you have had to overcome and how that has shaped your values. Consider 1-2 of these experiences and weave a story about them which show your unique characteristics. Specifically answer how this can contribute to your medical school class; consider the effect you might have on your peers, professors and patients.

9. Please discuss any additional information you feel may help us in our review of your candidacy. Feel free to elaborate on any gaps (educational or experiences), discrepancies in academic history, institutional actions, etc.

If you took time off between undergraduate and medical school, describe the experiences you had during that time. For each experience, explain how this helped you grow and become a better medical school candidate, which is the most important goal of the gap year in the admissions committee’s eyes. Focus on the lessons you learned and skills you gained during the time off. Do not repeat what is in your primary application. This is a key to all secondaries. If you use a prior experience from the AMCAS primary (which can be difficult to avoid given the nature of some secondary questions), try to adopt a new angle or describe a different aspect of the experience than has been presented before. Consider using an anecdote to spice up the answer. 

If there is an inconsistency or issue within your application which you feel the need to explain, do so honestly and directly. Do not make excuses or make yourself out as a victim. Be sure to take responsibility but also explain how you improved thereafter and what you learned from the experience. Spin it as a positive which you grew from.

The secondary application essay prompts from this medical school application cycle are the same as above.

Disclaimer: The information on this page was shared by students and/or can be found on the medical school’s website. Med School Insiders does not guarantee the accuracy of the information on this page.

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Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Secondary Questions

Here are Rutgers New Jersey Medical School’s secondary questions.

All 1500 characters.

1. We are committed to supporting our NJMS community by enhancing collaboration between students, staff, and faculty, with a dedicated focus on humanism, health equity and social justice. How do you envision yourself contributing to the NJMS community?

2. We seek students who are respectful, self-aware, humble, resilient, team-oriented, and adaptable. Discuss a personal or professional challenge you have experienced and share insight on what you learned about yourself and how the challenge was resolved.

3. If you will not be a full-time student between June 2023 and August 2024, please describe in detail your planned activities, including projected time commitment for each activity:

4. If you have chosen to pursue one or more “growth” years prior to your planned matriculation to medical school in 2024, please share insight on your decision

5. If you are a re-applicant, please share what you have done to enhance your candidacy and re-application?

6. Please elaborate on challenges not thoroughly addressed anywhere else in your application (Please feel free to address any or all of the following if applicable: Institutional Actions, Academic and/or MCAT inconsistencies, personal challenges,):

7. Please discuss any additional information you feel may help us in our review of your candidacy

2021-2022  

• We are committed to an environment which fosters collaboration, humanism, equity and social justice. With this in mind, how will you contribute to the NJMS community? (1500 character limit)
• We seek students who are self-aware, resilient and adaptable. Discuss a personal or professional challenge you’ve experienced and how you resolved it. Please include insight on what you learned about yourself as a result: (1500 character limit)
• If you will not be a full time student between June 2021-August 2022, please describe in detail your planned activities, including projected time commitment for each activity: (1500 character limit)
• If you chose to pursue one or more growth years prior to applying to medical school, please share insight on your decision: (1500 character limit)
• If you are a re-applicant, please share what you have done to enhance your candidacy and re-application? (1500 character limit)
• Please elaborate on challenges not thoroughly addressed anywhere else in your application (Please feel free to address any or all of the following if applicable: impact of COVID, institutional actions, academics, MCAT, personal difficulties, etc.): (1500 character limit)
• Please discuss any additional information you feel may help us in our review of your candidacy: (1500 character limit)

1500 character limit on all prompts.

• We seek students who are self-aware, resilient and adaptable. Discuss a personal or professional challenge you’ve experienced and how you resolved it. Please include insight on what you learned about yourself as a result:
• We are committed to an environment which fosters collaboration, cohesiveness, equity and social justice. With this in mind, how will you contribute to the NJMS community?
• If you will not be a full-time student between June 2020-August 2021, please describe in detail your planned activities, including projected time commitment for each activity:
• If you chose to pursue one or more gap years prior to applying to medical school, please share insight on your decision:
• If you are a re-applicant, what have you done to enhance your re-application?
• Please discuss any additional information you feel may help us in our review of your candidacy:
• Please elaborate on any academic challenges (including MCAT), institutional actions, and/or personal difficulties not thoroughly addressed anywhere else in your application:

If you have participated in any program(s) affiliated with NJMS (i.e. summer programs, research, high school programs, internships, volunteering, graduate school, etc.), please indicate below. Please provide name(s) and date(s) of program participation:

If you have any relatives currently enrolled or who have graduated from NJMS please provide name(s), relationship to you and graduation year in the space provided below:

If you have any other connections to NJMS, or Rutgers University, please provide details below:

If you previously applied to NJMS through AMCAS or an accelerated program, please provide the following: Program name(s) and Application year(s):

Please indicate below if you previously met with either Dr. Heinrich or Ms. Rivero (prior to July 1, 2018). With whom did you meet and date(s):

NJMS recognizes the importance of diversity in the medical profession. We understand that the applicant pool is multidimensional and as such we would like to learn more about you:

How do you self-identify Racially

How do you self-identify Ethnically

How do you self-identify Culturally

Integrity is a core value at NJMS. Please share your thoughts on Integrity. Additionally, we seek students who are self-aware, resilient and adaptable. Discuss a personal or professional challenge you have experienced and how you resolved it.

NJMS is committed to fostering a collaborative and cohesive environment. With this in mind, how will you contribute to our medical school community?

Please discuss any additional information you feel may help us in our review of your candidacy. Feel free to elaborate on any gaps (educational or experiences), discrepancies in academic history, institutional actions, etc.

2017 – 2018

Same as previous year

2016 – 2017

1.) We value qualities of integrity, humanism, diversity, and cultural competency in our student body. What would you bring to our medical school community? 1500 characters

2.) Please discuss additional information not addressed in your application that you feel is important for the screening committee to know in reviewing your application (i.e. personal experiences, examples of resilience, discrepancies in academic history, etc…).

3.) If there is any other information you feel enriches your candidacy, please feel free to share it here.

4.) If you don’t currently reside in NJ, please share connections (if any) you may have.

5.) If you will not be a full time student between June 2016-August 2017, please describe in detail your planned activities, including chronology and time commitment.

2015 – 2016

We value integrity, humanism, cultural competence in our student body. What would you bring to our school?

If your legal residence on your AMCAS application is not NJ, please discuss specific reasons you have applied to NJMS and include connections you may have (if any) to New Jersey.

Please discuss any additional information that you feel is important to your candidacy for medical school.

If you are not attending college/university full-time as of fall 2014 or during the rest of the academic year, please describe your planned activities from June 2015 – August 2016.

2014 – 2015

Please discuss any personal characteristics that make you a good fit for medicine, as well as a good fit for NJMS.

If you are not attending college/university full-time as of fall 2014 or during the rest of the academic year, please describe your planned activities from June 2014 – August 2015.

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Netanyahu says Rafah camp strike was a ‘tragic mistake.’ Experts weigh in on what happened

Amna Nawaz Amna Nawaz

Dan Sagalyn Dan Sagalyn

Zeba Warsi Zeba Warsi

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• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/war-in-the-holy-land-dis

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Israeli airstrike on Rafah tent camp kills 45, triggers new wave of condemnation

Israel's airstrike on a tent camp in Rafah killed scores of civilians and led to more global outcry. To discuss how it happened and its wider significance, Amna Nawaz spoke with Noura Erakat, an associate professor at Rutgers University and a human rights lawyer, and retired Israeli Col. Pnina Sharvit Baruch, a senior research fellow at the Israel Institute for National Security Studies.

Read the Full Transcript

Notice: Transcripts are machine and human generated and lightly edited for accuracy. They may contain errors.

Amna Nawaz:

We return now to the Israeli airstrike in Rafah yesterday which killed scores of civilians, what we know about how it happened and its wider significance.

We get two views.

First, Noura Erakat is associate professor at Rutgers University and a human rights lawyer.

Noura, welcome, and thanks for joining us.

As you heard, we have reported earlier, Prime Minister Netanyahu says this was a tragic mistake and Israeli officials will investigate. What questions do you want to see answered from that investigation and do you think you will get those answers?

Noura Erakat, Rutgers University:

What we saw yesterday was the asphyxiation and the burning to death of civilians by the plastic tents that are meant to shelter them. That means that they died in agony. Not only have they been put through a genocide, but, even in their death, they are put through indescribable pain and suffering.

At this point, we need to be asking questions about the systematic nature of Israel's campaign, which the ICJ has said is plausibly genocide. It is the duty to prevent genocide, not to punish it.

After the third ICJ decision now demanding an immediate cease-fire, why does this operation continue, knowing full well that Hamas cannot be defeated militarily and that, in the outcome, now some 40,000 civilians, 13,000 of them children, who have been killed, all the hospitals destroyed, all the universities destroyed, 80 percent of the population sheltering in the south with no safe zone?

Israel says that it's going after the last stronghold of Hamas there. And they also point out Hamas continues to launch missiles into Israel. They continue to hide behind civilians.

They also argue that a high death toll serves Hamas. Do you agree with that?

Noura Erakat:

Does anybody actually believe this? The only nuclear power in the Middle East, the 11th most significant military power in the world, 234 days, all the arsenal and impunity, and has not been able to diminish Hamas' military power?

Hamas was launching rockets from the very area that Israel said that it had cleared out. American intelligence officials have been telling us from the beginning that Israel cannot defeat Hamas militarily. We, as advocates and as scholars, have been insisting that you cannot defeat Hamas militarily, that it is part of the national and political fabric of Palestinians, and that they must be engaged with diplomatically.

And yet, even after 234 days, this staggering civilian death toll, Israel nowhere closer to defeating Hamas.

You're mentioning the Hamas, of course, the political wing, you say there is part of the political fabric of the Palestinian movement.

And I wonder how you think of it from the Jewish perspective, when they say this is a force that has called for the end of the Jewish state. How could you ask those seven million Jews in Israel to find a way to live alongside Hamas? What would you say to that?

This is not an objection from Jewish people around the world. This is an objection from Zionists, be they Jewish Zionists, be they American Zionists, be they Christian Zionists, even if they are Muslim Zionists.

They believe in a state that it is exclusively a Jewish demographic majority, at the expense of an indigenous population whose land must be taken from them and who must be constantly dispossessed and forced into exile.

This equation, in and of itself, is unsustainable, has been determined as a form of apartheid by human rights legacy organizations like Human Rights Watch, as well as Israeli human rights organizations like B'Tselem.

Apartheid is a regime by which law and policy is used in order to maintain the racial superiority of one group over another. It is only through that thorough dehumanization of the racial other that this genocide is possible, that it has been accepted that babies be burnt alive in plastic tents for their displacement, who are suffering from a famine without access to hospitals and burn units, where we can still be asking the question about whose safety is now at risk and should be prioritized.

That is Noura Erakat, human rights lawyer, associate professor at Rutgers University.

Noura, thank you for your time.

Thank you for having me.

We now turn to retired Israeli Colonel Pnina Sharvit Baruch. She was a legal adviser to the Israel Defense Forces and is now a senior research fellow at the Israel Institute for National Security Studies.

So, Pnina, as you heard, Prime Minister Netanyahu said the civilian deaths were a tragic mistake in this strike. It was also a mistake, you will remember, when an aid convoy from World Central Kitchen was hit, killing seven. And one of the biggest questions people have is why one of the best-funded and best trained militaries in the world keeps making these deadly mistakes.

What would you say to that?

Pnina Sharvit Baruch, Institute for National Security Studies: This is a terrible situation.

We are — we are trapped in this war threatening us in Israel, and we are being attacked from all sides. It feels to us an existential threat. So we know we look strong. We are strong, but the threats are huge. The whole issue of Rafah, why is Rafah important, is because this is the land border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.

And we know that they get from there their supply. There are tunnels going underneath, a lot of tunnels in Rafah.

But I should point out that it was the ICJ ruling just last week…

Pnina Sharvit Baruch:

… that ordered Israel to halt its military offensive in Rafah, as you're pointing out, which is a critical point there.

So how was this military strike in Rafah not in violation of that order?

Well, the order didn't say that Israel must halt its operations in Gaza.

What the order said — and I will quote it — is that Israel must halt its military offensive and any other action in Rafah which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about a physical destruction in whole or in part.

This is limited to what is covered by the Genocide Convention. Israel is not carrying out a genocide.

I'm reading the same text you are.

It says, "The state of Israel shall immediately halt its military offensive," as you just read there, "that could bring about physical destruction in whole or in part."

This — 45 civilians were killed. That is physical destruction in whole or in part, is it not?

Yes, but genocide has the element of intent.

And the idea here was that Israel has to do what it can to avoid destruction. And, indeed, what happened here is a tragedy. But, again, what has to be checked is whether — how did it happen? Israel, at least according to what the initial explanation, is that it was using accurate ammunition, and perhaps there was something that — some fire that broke out.

Civilians get killed. It is terrible. It is tragic, but it doesn't necessarily mean that there is an intention. It definitely doesn't mean that there's a genocidal intention.

Pnina, as you have heard, some will argue that, look, Hamas is inseparable from the Palestinian national movement that sprang from oppression, from a lack of freedom, those are conditions that persist for Palestinians today, and that killing every last fighter of Hamas right now won't eliminate that.

What do you say to that?

I think we have to beat the Hamas, at least the — again, the military structure of the Hamas.

If the Hamas continues to control the Gaza Strip, that means not only that Israel lost the war, and this is very dangerous, because Iran is looking, our other enemies. It is really dangerous for Israel. But it also means that there will be no prospects of peace. Hamas is opposed to peace.

As I hear also other speakers, when they are talking about no Zionist entity, that means no state of Israel. This is not about ending the occupation and finding a peaceful resolution for conflict. I have been a peace activist. I'm trying to reach a resolution. I meet Palestinians.

And I hope that the moderate Palestinians don't go after this notion that Israel has no right to exist. And that is what Hamas is promoting. So, if Hamas remains in power, there will be never a peaceful resolution of the conflict, and both Israelis and Palestinians will pay the price.

That is retired Israeli Colonel Pnina Sharvit Baruch now with the Israel Institute for National Security Studies.

Pnina, thank you for your time. We appreciate it.

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3 More College Leaders to Face Congress Over Antisemitism Claims

The heads of Rutgers, Northwestern and U.C.L.A. will be the first university leaders to testify since a wave of protest encampments roiled college campuses.

By Sharon Otterman ,  Ernesto Londoño and Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs

For the fourth time in six months, the Republican-led House Committee on Education and the Workforce is summoning school leaders to Washington to be questioned about accusations of antisemitism at their institutions.

This time, on Thursday, the committee’s focus will be on how three diverse universities reacted when pro-Palestinian encampments sprung up on their lawns as part of an international wave of student activism against the war in Gaza.

Two of the schools whose leaders will testify — Northwestern and Rutgers — made deals with protesters to end their encampments peacefully. The third, the University of California, Los Angeles, called in the police to dismantle its encampment, but only after a violent attack by counterprotesters the night before caused the situation to veer out of control .

Representative Virginia Foxx, the chairwoman of the committee, has blasted Rutgers and Northwestern for negotiating with the demonstrators, whose views she has described as antisemitic and supportive of terrorism. But she has also derided U.C.L.A.’s chancellor for calling the police too late, saying he allowed his campus to become a “severe and pervasive hostile environment for Jewish students.”

“The committee has a clear message for mealy-mouthed, spineless college leaders: Congress will not tolerate your dereliction of your duty to your Jewish students,” Ms. Foxx said in a May 16 statement announcing the hearing. “No stone must go unturned while buildings are being defaced, campus greens are being captured or graduations are being ruined.”

The three college leaders do not dispute that Jewish students have faced antisemitism, both on and off their campuses. But all have largely defended their responses, saying that they have taken steps to stop it.

How aggressive they will be in pushing back against the committee’s claims, however, remains to be seen.

School leaders have taken different approaches at past hearings. The presidents of Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania were measured and legalistic; the president of Columbia was conciliatory. Three public school superintendents, who testified earlier this month, ceded little ground, sparring with lawmakers in ways rarely seen on Capitol Hill.

Those who distrust the committee’s motivations in grilling the college leaders hope Thursday will represent another moment of pushback. Many faculty members and students have seen the hearings as government intrusions motivated more by partisan politics than real concern for Jewish students.

Elizabeth Shakman Hurd, the chair of religious studies at Northwestern, defended the school’s decision to end its encampment using negotiation as a model of constructive conflict resolution.

“We can be proud of our administration and we can be proud of our students,” she said. She added that it pained her to see Northwestern’s president “dragged up there and subjected to this inquisitorial process that is so reminiscent of McCarthyism.”

Thursday’s hearing represents the first time that leaders of public universities — U.C.L.A. and Rutgers — have been brought to testify about campus antisemitism since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel. This changes the hearing’s context somewhat, as public universities must follow First Amendment principles of free speech on their campuses, while private universities have more freedom to restrict what can be said.

It is also the first time that university leaders have been questioned since the decision of Columbia’s president, Nemat Shafik, to call in the police to end a pro-Palestinian encampment on April 18, shortly after her own congressional testimony.

Since then, at least 65 other university leaders across the country have cracked down on pro-Palestinian student protesters by detaining or arresting them, with nearly 3,000 arrests so far , according to a New York Times tracker. But more than a dozen colleges have reached agreements with demonstrators, often by consenting to talk about their key demand: severing their school’s financial ties with companies that profit from Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank.

The university leaders speaking before the committee Thursday face a variety of circumstances at their campuses, and their testimony is likely to vary in style and focus.

Only months from a preplanned retirement, Gene D. Block, the chancellor of U.C.L.A. and an expert in neuroscience, may feel freer than the other two college leaders to parry with committee members.

His campus was thrown into turmoil three weeks ago amid a flurry of conflict over the pro-Palestinian student encampment there. The conflict culminated in an attack on the camp on April 30 by a group of pro-Israel counterprotesters. The following night, the police arrested more than 200 pro-Palestinian demonstrators.

Since then, Dr. Block and the university’s police force have faced criticism on multiple fronts. Many have questioned why the counterprotesters were allowed to attack students in the encampment for several hours before the police intervened, and why only members of the camp — and not those who attacked it — have been arrested so far.

“It wasn’t that we were arrested that bothered us — at least for me, it was, What is this unreal double standard?” said Aidan Doyle, a third-year student who was arrested in the pro-Palestinian encampment after being injured by counterprotesters.

The education committee has charged that U.C.L.A. did not act soon enough to clear the camp, allowing acts of harassment against some Jewish students.

In his written testimony to the committee, provided to The Times, Dr. Block mentioned his childhood as a Jewish boy growing up in the Catskills region of New York, with relatives who were Holocaust survivors. He described how as chancellor of a public university, he must both allow free speech and keep students safe from discrimination, a difficult balance.

He also took some blame, acknowledging that U.C.L.A. was insufficiently prepared with security resources when violence broke out around the encampment. He pledged reform.

“With the benefit of hindsight, we should have been prepared to immediately remove the encampment if and when the safety of our community was put at risk,” he said.

On Wednesday, the school removed the campus police chief , John Thomas, from his post and reassigned him, according to U.C.L.A. officials.

Michael Schill , the president of Northwestern University since September 2022, is a legal scholar who has made safeguarding free speech one of his core priorities.

On April 29, Mr. Schill became the first university president to strike a deal with students who had called on their school to sever financial ties with companies profiting from Israel’s military campaign.

Under the agreement, students dismantled their tent encampment and Northwestern promised to be more transparent about its financial holdings. It also agreed to award scholarships to five Palestinian students affected by the conflict and to create roles for two Palestinian professors.

The deal restored a sense of normalcy on campus, but it was met with vociferous criticism from pro-Israel groups, which accused Mr. Schill of condoning antisemitism. Mr. Schill, who is Jewish, is expected to face tough questions about the deal on Thursday.

“I used to say that it was very hard to make everyone happy,” Mr. Schill said in an interview days after the agreement was announced. “Today it’s virtually impossible to make anyone happy.”

Eman Hamed, a junior at Northwestern who helped organize the pro-Palestinian demonstrations, said lawmakers and university administrators had focused too much on allegations of antisemitism while glossing over instances of harassment and abuse directed at Arab students.

“There’s a single story being told right now by presidents like Schill, who only honor and condemn antisemitism with no regard for rampant anti-Arab sentiment,” said Ms. Hamed.

Jonathan Holloway , the president of Rutgers since 2020, is a historian specializing in African American history. One of his goals at Rutgers, he has said , is to foster “a beloved community,” a university culture defined by tolerance, diversity and the spirited exchange of opinions and ideas.

He has also come under considerable criticism since negotiating an end to a large pro-Palestinian encampment on Rutgers’s campus in New Brunswick, N.J., on May 2. Under the agreement, the university will welcome 10 displaced Palestinian students to finish their educations at Rutgers, plan for a new cultural center for Arab and Muslim students and allow protesters to formally present their divestment requests.

Two Democratic congressmen from New Jersey, Donald Norcross and Josh Gottheimer, denounced Dr. Holloway’s response in a letter.

“We are concerned that Rutgers appears to have incentivized people to act in a lawless and threatening manner by appeasing the demands of violent and hateful agitators,” they wrote of the deal.

But Dr. Holloway has defended his approach, noting on May 6 that “the result of our actions was a peaceful return to the normal course of business.” (He has also allowed a second, smaller tent encampment to remain at the university’s Newark campus for three weeks. On Tuesday, administrators told protesters to “ leave now .”)

While some Jewish faculty members and students are upset by what they view as a capitulation to the protesters, others support Dr. Holloway.

“The negotiated agreement avoided the brutal confrontation with the police that we have seen unfold on other campuses across the country,” several Jewish Rutgers professors wrote in an open letter that has now been signed by more than 600 Jewish professors nationally.

Sharon Otterman is a Times reporter covering higher education, public health and other issues facing New York City. More about Sharon Otterman

Ernesto Londoño is a Times reporter based in Minnesota, covering news in the Midwest and drug use and counternarcotics policy. More about Ernesto Londoño

Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs reports on national stories across the United States with a focus on criminal justice. He is from upstate New York. More about Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs

The Campus Protests Over the Gaza War

News and Analysis

​Harvard said that it will no longer take positions on matters outside of the university , accepting the recommendations of a faculty committee that urged the school to reduce its messages on issues of the day.

​Weeks after counterprotesters attacked a pro-Palestinian encampment at the University of California, Los Angeles, the university police have made the first arrest related to the attack .

​​A union for academic workers in the University of California system announced that an ongoing strike challenging the system’s handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations would extend to two more campuses , U.C.L.A. and U.C. Davis.

The Battle Over College Speech:  ​University demonstrations over the war in Gaza have reignited the debate over campus speech, and have led to a rethinking of who sets the terms for language in academia .

Making Sense of the Protests:  In the weeks leading up to graduation, our reporter spoke with more than a dozen students at Columbia University and Barnard College about how the campus protests had shaped them .

A Complex Summer:  Many university leaders and officials may be confronting federal investigations, disputes over student discipline  — and the prospect that the protests start all over again in the fall.

A New Litmus Test:  Some Jewish students say their views on Zionism — which are sometimes assumed — have affected their social life on campus .