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Admission

Thank you for completing your application to Rockford University.

You did it! Congratulations on taking the first step on your journey with Rockford University.

Your admissions counselor will be in touch soon with information regarding your next steps and your application status. In the meantime, please review our admission checklists below and explore what RU has to offer.

Questions about your application? Contact the Admission Team at admissions@rockford.edu or 815-226-4050.

First Time Freshman Admission Checklist

You’ve applied to Rockford University. What’s next?

  • Request your high school transcript be sent to Rockford University, Office of Admission, 5050 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108.
  • (Optional): Request your ACT/SAT score be sent to Rockford University. Rockford University’s ACT code is 1122; SAT code is 1665. Test scores are not required. Students with a test score may submit them to our university. If the score(s) help your application, they will be considered. If they do not help your application, they will not be reviewed during the admission decision process.
  • Fill out the FAFSA. The first step to receiving your financial aid package (grants, scholarships, loan eligibility) is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.ed.gov. Rockford University’s school code is 001748.
  • (Bonus): Visit campus. Call the Office of Admission at 815.226.4050 or schedule your visit right now. Students are welcome to visit at any point in the process, and even more than once.

Once you have submitted your application, transcript, and any additional information that may be requested, you will be notified of your admission status and the next steps to becoming a Rock Solid Regent.

Transfer Student Admission Checklist

You’ve applied to Rockford University. What’s next?

  • Submit your official transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended*
  • Fill out the FAFSA. The first step to receiving your financial aid package (grants, scholarships, loan eligibility) is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.ed.gov. Rockford University’s school code is 001748.
  • (Bonus): Visit campus. Call the Office of Admission at 815.226.4050 or schedule your visit right now. Students are welcome to visit at any point in the process, and even more than once.

*If you have less than 12 credit hours, your high school transcript, ACT, or SAT scores may be requested.

Once you have submitted your application, transcript, and any additional information that may be requested, you will be notified of your admission status and the next steps to becoming a Rock Solid Regent.

RU Online Admission Checklist

You’ve applied to Rockford University. What’s next?

  • Request official, sealed transcripts or e-transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended.
  • Fill out the FAFSA. The first step to receiving your financial aid package (grants, scholarships, loan eligibility) is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.ed.gov. Rockford University’s school code is 001748.

Once you have submitted your application, transcript, and any additional information that may be requested, you will be notified of your admission status and the next steps to becoming a Rock Solid Regent.

Graduate Admission Checklist

You’ve applied to Rockford University. What’s next?

  • Request official, sealed transcripts or e-transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended.
  • Fill out the FAFSA. The first step to receiving your financial aid package (loan eligibility) is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.ed.gov. Rockford University’s school code is 001748.

Once you have submitted your application, transcript, and any additional information that may be requested, you will be notified of your admission status and the next steps to becoming a Rock Solid Regent.

Certificate and Post-MBA Admission Checklist

You’ve applied to Rockford University. What’s next?

  • Request official, sealed transcripts or e-transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended. If you have never attended a college or university, you will need to request a high school transcript.

Once you have submitted your application, transcript, and any additional information that may be requested, you will be notified of your admission status and the next steps to becoming a Rock Solid Regent.

International Student Admission Checklist

You’ve applied to Rockford University. What’s next?

1. Email your transcript(s) to globalaffairs@rockford.edu

  • *Transcripts are considered official if they are sent directly from an institution or approved evaluation company.
  • First-year students: Submit a copy of your secondary school transcript and examination score (if applicable) with the English translation if the transcript is not in English.
  • Transfer or graduate students: Submit copies of all post-secondary level transcripts with English translations (if applicable).  U.S. transcripts must be officially sent from your university to Rockford University;  foreign transcripts may be copies for admission purposes.  (Official/original foreign transcripts will be required upon arrival.)
  • *An official course-by-course evaluation from a NACES or AICE member may be required by Rockford University.
  • Exclusive course-by-course transcript evaluations may be ordered at a 10% discount from the following companies:

2.  Submit a copy of the data/photo page of your passport.

3.  Submit a bank statement equivalent to the following amount:

  • Undergraduate—42,880 U.S. dollars
  • Masters of Business Administration–29,500 U.S. dollars
  • Master of Education—25,000 U.S. dollars
  • English as a Second Language Program—25,500 U.S. dollars

4.  Submit an affidavit (affidavit form available upon request).

  • This step is not required if the bank statement is in the student’s name.

5.  Submit an English language proficiency score.

  • This step is not required for applicants with 12+ U.S. university credits or from approved countries.
  • Rockford University accepts Cambridge, Duolingo, IELTS, Pearson PTE, and TOEFL.

6.  Submit a copy of your most recent graduation certificate (if applicable). 

Once you have submitted your application, transcript, and any additional information that may be requested, you will be notified of your admission status and the next steps to becoming a Rock Solid Regent.

English Language Institute Student Admission Checklist

You’ve applied to Rockford University. What’s next?

1. Email your transcript(s) to globalaffairs@rockford.edu

  • *Transcripts are considered official if they are sent directly from an institution or approved evaluation company.
  • First-year students: Submit a copy of your secondary school transcript and examination score (if applicable) with the English translation if the transcript is not in English.
  • Transfer or graduate students: Submit copies of all post-secondary level transcripts with English translations (if applicable).  U.S. transcripts must be officially sent from your university to Rockford University;  foreign transcripts may be copies for admission purposes.  (Official/original foreign transcripts will be required upon arrival.)
  • *An official course-by-course evaluation from a NACES or AICE member may be required by Rockford University.
  • Exclusive course-by-course transcript evaluations may be ordered at a 10% discount from the following companies:

2.  Submit a copy of the data/photo page of your passport.

3.  Submit a bank statement equivalent to the following amount:

  • English as a Second Language Program—24,000 U.S. dollars

4.  Submit an affidavit (affidavit form available upon request).

  • This step is not required if the bank statement is in the student’s name.  Affidavits must be notarized.

5.  Submit an English language proficiency score.

  • This step is not required for applicants with 12+ U.S. university credits or from approved countries.
  • Rockford University accepts Cambridge, Duolingo, IELTS, Pearson PTE, and TOEFL.

6.  Submit a copy of your most recent graduation certificate (if applicable). 

Once you have submitted your application, transcript, and any additional information that may be requested, you will be notified of your admission status and the next steps to becoming a Rock Solid Regent.

at may be requested, you will be notified of your admission status and the next steps to becoming a Rock Solid Regent.

Early Scholars Program Admission Checklist

You’ve applied to Rockford University. What’s next?

  • Request your official high school transcript be sent to Rockford University electronically or via mail: Rockford University, Office of Admission, 5050 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108.
  • Submit a letter of recommendation from a high school teacher to admissions@rockford.edu.
  • Receive approval from your parent/guardian regarding your participation in this program.

Once you have submitted your application, transcript, letter of recommendation and any additional information that may be requested, you will be notified of your admission status and the next steps to becoming a Rock Solid Regent.

Office of Admission
Johnson Center
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
815-226-4050
Fax 815-226-2822
Admissions@rockford.edu

Hours
Mon-Fri: 8:30 am to 5 pm
Sat: 9 am to 1 pm
Please call to reserve an appointment on Saturdays.

Meet Our Team

Scholarship Competition Day

10/26/2020 5:16 pm

Congratulations! Due to all of your hard work and dedication, you are being considered for one of Rockford University’s Competitive Scholarships.  These scholarships have assisted many of our students with their financial costs here at Rockford University.  Admitted students with a GPA of 3.5 and above and a core GPA of 3.0 in the subjects of English and Math are eligible to compete in Rockford University’s scholarship competition. GPAs are calculated on a 4.0 scale. Below you will find all of the information you need to know when competing for these scholarships.

Recipients may still be eligible for additional financial aid by demonstrating need on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

 

SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS

Charles & Dianna Colman Scholarship

The Charles & Dianna Colman Scholarship is a competitive scholarship available to domestic students.  Recipients are required to complete the FAFSA and be enrolled full-time.  The Charles & Dianna Colman Scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with other Rockford University scholarships, grants, or awards.  This scholarship applies toward tuition only and is available for four years.  If a qualified student does not receive a Charles & Dianna Colman Scholarship, they are automatically considered for the Trustee Scholarship.  A separate application is not necessary.

Amount: up to full tuition

Requirements:

  • Available to incoming first-year and transfer students
  • Required to live and take meals on campus
  • To renew annually, recipients must maintain both a semester and cumulative GPA of 3.50

Trustee Scholarship

The Trustee Scholarship is a competitive scholarship available to domestic students.  Recipients are required to complete the FAFSA and be enrolled full-time.  The Trustee Scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with other Rockford University scholarships, grants, or awards.  This scholarship applies toward tuition only and is available for four years. If a qualified student does not receive a Trustee Scholarship, they are automatically considered for the Dean’s Scholarship.  A separate application is not necessary.

Amount: up to 75% of tuition

Requirements:

  • Available to incoming first-year and transfer students
  • Required to live and take meals on campus
  • To renew annually, recipients must maintain both a semester and cumulative GPA of 3.25

 

APPLICATION DETAILS

Step 1: Apply to Rockford University – Admitted students with a GPA of 3.5 and above and a core GPA of 3.0 in the subjects of English and Math are eligible to compete in Rockford University’s scholarship competition. Eligible students must be admitted to the university by Wednesday, December 17, 2025.

Step 2: Submit an Essay & Video Presentation – These must be submitted to admissions@rockford.edu by Friday, January 9, 2026.

The essay: In no more than 500 words, answer the following question. How do you envision your college experience shaping your future, and what specific aspects of college life are you most excited about? Essays should be submitted in a .doc or .pdf format.

The video presentation: Submit a video presentation about an accomplishment you are proud of and why. Your submission must be 5 to 10 minutes in length. Your video should have an audio and visual recording of yourself, and you may integrate additional visual aids, such as slides, additional videos, photos, etc., into the video. The video submission should be a single MP4 file. A few examples of project topics that have been submitted in the past include: an art exhibit, a video game they coded, a service trip, a school project or a community service project, or a club they started.

 

IMPORTANT DATES

Wednesday, December 17, 2025 – Admission Deadline
Friday, January 9, 2026 – Essay and Video Presentation Deadline
Friday, January 23, 2026 – Competitive Scholarship Winners Announced
Friday, February 27, 2026 – Competitive Scholarship Banquet
Sunday, March 15, 2026 – Deadline to Accept Scholarship

 

FREQUENTLY ASK QUESTIONS

When will I know if I am a scholarship competition winner?

The results of the competition will be announced by Friday, January 23, 2026. Students receiving an additional scholarship will receive an updated financial aid award letter reflecting the changes as soon as notifications are official.

Is there an awardee waitlist?

Admissions will maintain a waitlist of students. We will re-award scholarships after the March 15th, 2026 deposit deadline.

How do I know if Rockford University received my essay and video presentation?

Our office will reply upon receiving your essay and video presentation.  If you do not hear from us soon after you send your items, feel free to call 815.226.4050 or email admissions@rockford.edu separately. Occasionally file sizes cause email errors. Items can be shared through links to cloud storage if needed.

 

Charles E. Box Honorary Scholarship

The Charles E. Box Honorary Scholarships provides an opportunity for Black students to pursue a degree in business through the Puri School of Business at Rockford University by enrolling in the following degree completion programs:

Interested students should have earned a minimum of 60 college credit hours and follow this two-part process to apply for the scholarship.

PART 1

COMPLETE THE APPLICATION PROCESS

  1. Apply using the BSMS or BSAS online application
  2. Submit transcripts
  1. Complete a FAFSA form
  2. Complete the Charles E. Box scholarship application

 

PART 2

AFTER YOU ARE ADMITTED AND NOTIFIED THAT YOU ARE ELIGIBLE, please email to AGAdmissions@rockford.edu the following items:

  1. Statement of purpose.
    Submit a statement explaining how pursuing a degree at Rockford University will help you to achieve your goals.
  2. Submit two letters of recommendation.
    Have two people who know you write a letter of support, detailing why you are a strong candidate to receive the scholarship.
  3. Candidates must have completed 60 transferrable college credit hours in order to apply for the Charles E. Box Honorary Scholarship.

*The Charles E. Box Scholarship is funded by the Puri Foundation.

QUESTIONS?

Adult & Graduate Admission Office

(815) 226-4040 | AGAdmissions@rockford.edu

Office of Admission
Johnson Center
5050 E. State Street Rockford, IL 61108
815-226-4040
agadmissions@rockford.edu

Hours:
Mon-Fri - 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
After hour appointments available by request

 

Business Management Bachelor’s Completion:
Transferring Your Associate’s Degree with Ease
FREE Information Session

Thursday, October 24, 2019
5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Rock Valley College
Woodward Technology Center
3301 N. Mulford Road

Attend the information session

  • Get admission & program requirements
  • Learn how easy it is to transfer your associate’s degrees – now including A.A.S. degrees to RU from Rock Valley (and other community colleges).
  • Hear about program experiences from current students
  • Meet program advisors and admission staff
  • Apply for free (a $35 value) at this session

Contact Us: (815) 226-4040

Register

Make Your Deposit

06/18/2019 2:18 pm

We’re thrilled you’re choosing Rockford University!

 

After being admitted, your next step is to
secure your spot by paying your tuition deposit.

It’s a great day to be a Regent!

 

 

 

Tuition Deposit FAQs

  • How much is the tuition deposit?
    • $100 for students who commute to campus
    • $200 for students who plan to live on campus
  • How do I make my payment?
    • Please make your payment online via the form below
  • Are deposits refundable?
    • Fall 2025 tuition deposits are refundable until May 1, 2025
  • What if I have questions?

MBA Info Session Registration

05/23/2019 12:21 pm

MBA Master of Business Administration
FREE Information Session

Thursday, November 7, 2019
5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Puri School of Business
5050 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108

Attend the information session

  • Find out why RU’s MBA program can help you advance your career
  • Get details on the customized concentrations in Finance, Healthcare Administration, and Project Management
  • Hear about the program experience from current students
  • Meet program advisors and admission representatives
  • Enjoy light refreshments

Contact Us: (815) 226-4040

Register

MBA Concentration

Families

12/03/2018 2:13 pm

Parents

Choices.

The college search is all about choices.

  • Small or large
  • Less than an hour or 4+ hours from home
  • Lectures or 1:1
  • Living on campus or off
  • To do the FAFSA or not

Aside from the last option (you DO want to do the FAFSA), you have options. And we’d just like to say, thanks. Thank you for considering Rockford University for your student.

The right education is life-changing. It not only prepares your student for a successful career, but also for the world. Below, see what you and your student can expect from Rockford University.

In short, Rockford University is a Rock Solid choice. It’s a unique place with small class sizes, close connections, and educational experiences you will not find anywhere else in the region. We’re anxious to help your student see how they can be successful here.

Curious to learn more? Visit us. We’re here to help, so let’s chat about the choices surrounding your student’s college search, financial aid, our Rock Solid academics, student support, safety… give us a call at 815.226.4050 or sign up to visit today at rockford.edu/visit.

Rock Solid Support

  • Faculty is dedicated to teaching your student and helping them realize and exceed their own expectations
  • Student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1
  • Faculty and staff serve as mentors and are ready to support your student’s goals and social development
  • Support services:
    • Tutoring and Writing Centers
    • Center for Learning Strategies
    • Career Development Office
    • Health and Wellness
    • Disability Services
    • Student Success & Retention

Community

  • Close-knit campus that feels like family
  • Opportunities to connect classroom learning to practical situations
  • Plenty of fun/school-sponsored activities outside of the classroom. Plus, the added benefit of planning campus activities and gaining valuable leadership skills
  • 14 Division III sports to compete in or cheer on
  • Unlimited opportunities to personally grow on campus
  • Choice between small house residence halls, a larger living complex, and commuting
  • 24/7 Department of Public Safety to keep your student safe

Career Preparation

  • Internships, job shadowing, mock interviews, and resume help
  • Faculty and staff are well connected to the community. Those connections provide students with opportunities and internships that open doors upon graduation
  • Rigorous liberal arts education will help your student understand a broad scope of ideas and concepts
  • Long and proud tradition of service that extends beyond the classroom

Opportunities

  • Short-term and semester-long study abroad programs
  • Student Opportunity Fund (funding opportunities for research, travel, conferences, and more)
  • Graduate-level experiences in our undergraduate programs

Affordability

  • 99% of our full-time students receive financial aid
  • Check out our handy guide on how to pay for a Rockford University education

Office of Admission
Johnson Center
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: 815-226-4050
Fax: 815-226-2822
Email: Admissions@rockford.edu

Hours
Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Please call to reserve an appointment on Saturdays.

Quiz Results

11/05/2018 2:08 pm

Rock Solid Quiz

10/24/2018 2:57 pm

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