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Rider University announced a new program Aug. 21 to provide free tuition for eligible New Jersey residents.

The school says the Rider Tuition Guarantee’s goal is to provide another pathway for students to earn their degrees. The initiative aims to fill the gap in financial aid after all other scholarships and grants have been applied.

Some key features and eligibility requirements include:

• Available for incoming, first-year and transfer undergraduate students who remain in good academic standing
• Students must reside in New Jersey and have a GPA of 3.5 or above (on a 4.0 scale)
• Financially, the students’ household must have an adjusted gross income of $50,000 or less and receive both full Tuition Aid Grants (TAG) and Pell Grants
• Students must also apply to Rider for the fall 2025 or spring 2026 start terms, submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and make their deposit by the appropriate deadline

Rider officials also note the opportunity for incoming graduate students to obtain free textbooks through its Books for Broncs program, as part of a continued focus on affordability.

“We’re dedicated to removing financial barriers for students through Rider’s robust scholarship opportunities and innovative financial aid support like the Rider Tuition Guarantee,” said Drew Aromando, vice president of enrollment management. “Through this opportunity, high-achieving students who call New Jersey home can pursue their program of choice.”

The program rollout follows Rider’s announcement earlier this month it would cut 31 non-faculty positions, which NJBIZ reported on.

More information on Rider Tuition Guarantee can be found here.