Freshman
Rockford University has been educating undergraduates since 1847. That’s a long time. And it’s proof that we know how to educate and support learners for successful careers and lifelong learning. We’ve graduated thousands and thousands of alumni who have experienced rich academic opportunities, practical experiences, and global perspectives in order to impact positively their lives and our world.
Join our ranks of amazing alumni.
Rockford University is affordable.
Yes, really. Over 99% of our full-time students receive financial aid, and every full-time student receives a scholarship. We also offer competitive scholarships that range up to 100% tuition, and several grant and loan programs. Check out scholarships, financial aid, and more.
Let’s Get Started.
Are you the next Rock Solid Regent? Follow our freshman admission checklist below to fulfill each step in our admission process. Questions? Our Admission team is here to help you every step of the way!
- Step 1: Apply today! There are two options to choose from, but you should only submit one application for admission. Your application is confidential and will only be accessed by Admission Office personnel and used solely in the application process. There are no application fees.
- Apply online directly through our website.
- Apply online with the Common App.
- Step 2: Request your high school transcript be sent to Rockford University, Office of Admission, 5050 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108.
- Step 3 (Optional): Request your ACT/SAT score be sent to Rockford University. Rockford University’s ACT code is 1122; SAT code is 1665. For admission for the fall 2024 semester, 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.
- Step 4: 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 studentaid.gov. Rockford University’s school code is 001748.
- Step 5 (Bonus): Visit campus. Call the Office of Admission at 815.226.4050 or schedule your visit right now. Students are welcome to visit at point in the process, and even more than once.
Once you have submitted your application, transcript, test score, 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.
Admission Criteria
Test-Optional Admissions: Worried about those SAT or ACT scores? Don’t be! We’re test-optional, which means you can choose whether or not to submit those scores. It’s all about giving you flexibility in the application process.
We accept students from across the board. If you don’t love your GPA, don’t worry. We take other things into consideration. Contact an Admissions counselor to review your transcripts and discuss your options. We don’t want your grades to get between you and your dream school!
Office of Admission
Johnson Center
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
815-226-4050
Fax 815-226-2822
Admissions@rockford.eduHours:
Mon-Fri- 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sat - 9:00 am to 1:00 pm -- Please call to reserve an appointment on Saturdays.
Rockford University Alumni: What's their legacy?
The legacy of Rockford University can be found in our alumni, who have accomplished and continue to accomplish some amazing things, including:
- Earning patents for the use of ACE inhibitors to reduce the likelihood of heart attacks
- Piloting the first test B2 Stealth Bomber
- Serving on the Bell Labs team that invented fiber optics and the LED
- Serving as president of ABC Studios and The CW Network
- Testing the first artificial heart valve in humans
- Manufacturing gears for NASA rovers to Mars
- Being named as Judge of the Year by the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association
- Serving as a US Magistrate Judge
- Being named as Illinois Teacher of the Year
- Being named as North Carolina Teacher of the Year
- Earning the Nobel Prize for Peace
Zach Wallace ’17, political science major and star forward for the Rockford Regents Men’s Basketball team, shares why he chose Rockford University and what’s up next for him after graduation.
“When I came here and saw that there would be the opportunity to have a balance between having a life, being a student, and also playing sports, that kind of made the decision for me.”