Roger Williams University Admissions: A Comprehensive Guide

Roger Williams University (RWU) is a private university located in Bristol, Rhode Island. Founded in 1956, RWU is known for its academic excellence, experiential learning opportunities, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. With over 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students, RWU offers a wide range of academic programs, including arts and sciences, business, education, engineering, and health sciences.

Admissions Process

Admissions Criteria

RWU has a holistic admissions process that considers a variety of factors, including academic record, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are academically strong, engaged in their communities, and possess the potential to succeed in a rigorous academic environment.

Application Deadlines

• Early Action: November 15
• Regular Decision: January 15
• Transfer Students: Rolling admissions

Application Requirements

• Common Application or Coalition Application
• Official high school transcript
• Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Portfolio (for certain programs)

Admissions Statistics

Class of 2026

• Applications Received: 12,845
• Applications Admitted: 7,383
• Acceptance Rate: 57.5%
• Median SAT Score: 1170
• Median ACT Score: 26
• Percentage of Students in Top 10% of Class: 35%

How to Apply

Step 1: Choose Your Application Type

Decide whether to apply Early Action or Regular Decision. Early Action applicants receive an admissions decision by December 15, while Regular Decision applicants receive a decision by April 1.

Step 2: Gather Your Application Materials

Collect all necessary application materials, including transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

Step 3: Complete the Application

Submit your application through the Common Application or Coalition Application website. Be sure to include all required materials.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once you have completed the application and gathered all necessary materials, submit your application by the deadline.

Academic Programs

RWU offers a wide range of academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Some of the most popular programs include:

• Arts and Sciences
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Communication
  • Economics
  • English
  • History
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
• Business
  • Accounting
  • Business Administration
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Marketing
• Education
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Elementary Education
  • Secondary Education
• Engineering
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
• Health Sciences
  • Nursing
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Public Health

Campus Life

RWU is a vibrant campus with a diverse student body and a wide range of activities and organizations. The university offers a variety of student services, including academic advising, career counseling, health services, and financial aid.

RWU has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and has been ranked as one of the greenest universities in the nation by the Princeton Review. The university also offers a variety of study abroad opportunities, allowing students to explore different cultures and gain international experience.

Notable Alumni

RWU has a distinguished alumni network that includes leaders in business, government, and the arts. Some notable alumni include:

• Ted Sorensen (BA ’50), former Special Counsel to President John F. Kennedy
• George E. Pataki (BA ’67), former Governor of New York
• William C. Weldon (BA ’71), former CEO of Johnson & Johnson
• John F. Kullman (BA ’73), former CEO of Avis
• Jennifer M. Granholm (MA ’85), former Governor of Michigan

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not starting the application process early. The earlier you start, the more time you will have to gather your materials and write a strong personal statement.
• Not proofreading your application. Make sure your application is error-free before you submit it.
• Not visiting campus. Visiting campus is a great way to learn more about RWU and meet with faculty and staff.
• Not applying for scholarships. RWU offers a variety of scholarships to help students with the cost of tuition.
• Not following up with the admissions office. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact the admissions office for assistance.

FAQs

1. What is the acceptance rate at RWU?

The acceptance rate for the Class of 2026 was 57.5%.

2. What is the average GPA of admitted students?

The average GPA of admitted students for the Class of 2026 was 3.6.

3. What is the average SAT score of admitted students?

The average SAT score of admitted students for the Class of 2026 was 1170.

4. What is the average ACT score of admitted students?

The average ACT score of admitted students for the Class of 2026 was 26.

5. What is the deadline for Early Action applications?

The deadline for Early Action applications is November 15.

6. What is the deadline for Regular Decision applications?

The deadline for Regular Decision applications is January 15.

7. What types of financial aid does RWU offer?

RWU offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

8. What is the student-to-faculty ratio at RWU?

The student-to-faculty ratio at RWU is 14:1.

Conclusion

Roger Williams University is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a rigorous academic environment, a diverse and inclusive campus community, and a wide range of opportunities to grow and succeed. With its strong academic programs, experiential learning opportunities, and commitment to student success, RWU is a great place to start your college journey.

Additional Tips for Applying

• Be yourself. The admissions committee wants to get to know the real you. Be genuine and authentic in your application materials.
• Showcase your strengths. Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities that make you a unique and valuable candidate for RWU.
• Write a compelling personal statement. Your personal statement is your chance to tell the admissions committee your story and explain why you are a good fit for RWU.
• Get involved in your community. Show the admissions committee that you are passionate about making a difference in the world.
• Don’t give up. The admissions process can be challenging, but don’t give up. If you have the dedication and perseverance, you can achieve your goal of attending RWU.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Admissions Statistics**

Table 2: Academic Profile of Admitted Students**

Table 3: Financial Aid**

Table 4: Campus Life**