FAQ Homecoming and Parents Weekend

For questions specific to the Football Game and Tailgate please visit https://scarletknights.com/index.aspx

  1. Does my student automatically get to attend everything during Homecoming Family Weekend?

    We hope your student will attend all Family Weekend events with you, but they aren't automatically included. You must register each family member attending Family Weekend, including your student(s). 

  2. Why is there a cost for Homecoming and Family Weekend?

    Family Weekend is a special event and does not receive any tuition or student fee money. Family Weekend is completely self-supported.

  3. When is the registration deadline?

    The registration deadline is October 15th, but it is best to register early since certain events will sell out.

  4. Can I register over the phone?

    Unfortunately, we are not able to take registrations over the phone. You may register online using the online registration link located on this website.

  5. What if my student has exams?

    We are aware that some students have midterm examinations during Homecoming and Family Weekend. The date for Homecoming and Family Weekend is determined by many factors, including holidays, availability of venues, and the athletics schedule.  We encourage you to speak with your student to learn about any academic or other commitments they may have during Family Weekend.

  6. Why are some events already sold out?

    Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis; this is the most equitable system possible. We regret that certain events sell out. Thousands of parents, family members, and students attend Homecoming Family Weekend each year, and some events sell out quickly due to their popularity and limited availability of space on campus.

    More than 20 different events and activities are offered during Family Weekend. We are committed to providing a variety of options that appeal to a broad spectrum of family members as well as presenting specific events that can accommodate all Family Weekend participants. Special events included in the Family Weekend Registration Fee include Friday Knight Kick-Off, Rutgers Boardwalk Friday and Saturday, Rutgers Makerspace Activities, Stargazing at the Schommer Observatory, Rutgers-themed Photo Scavenger Hunt, Events and Tours at the Gardens, Farm and Museums and are open to all participants, as are many other events during the weekend for which there is no extra fee

  7. Can I get on a waitlist for a sold-out event?

    We are unable to provide a waitlist for closed events. Tickets to "sold out" events may become available if current ticket holders make changes to or cancel their Homecoming and Family Weekend registration. When this occurs, their tickets are released and become available online. You are welcome to log on to the Family Weekend registration site (using your Confirmation Number) at any time to see if any tickets for a particular event become available.

  8. What does the registration fee cover?

    The registration fee includes the following: Access to Family Weekend events, educational sessions, and workshops, Family Weekend giveaway item (one per family). The registration fee also covers the cost of Homecoming and Family Weekend online and onsite registration services, registration materials, facility rentals, staff, and service fees. Family Weekend is an independent and self-supported event for Rutgers families and is not financed by Rutgers University.

  9. Can I register onsite?

    Yes. But availability of Family Weekend giveaways may be limited.

  10. When will I get the confirmation of my registration?

    Your Family Weekend confirmation is immediate and sent to you via email after completing the online registration form. Confirmation comes from cvent.com

  11. How do I pick up my tickets for events?

    Tickets are not necessary to attend every event.  All registered participants can pick up their badges and family gift beginning October 15th, through October 18th

  12. What if I register for something and I want to cancel it later?

    No refunds will be granted unless otherwise granted at the discretion of the Office of Parent and Family Engagement.

  13. Where can I park during Homecoming and Family Weekend?

    Parking information for Homecoming Family Weekend will be sent the week prior with the link to register your car for the weekend. IMPORTANT, THIS CANNOT BE USED FOR THE FOOTBALL GAME OR TAILGATE.

  14. When should we plan to arrive? Do families stay for the entire weekend?

    We have tons of events planned just for you. We encourage you to arrive early on Friday so you can take full advantage of the weekend.

  15. Do I have to stay for the whole weekend? What if I can only come on Saturday?

    How long you stay is up to you. We hope you stay as long as you are able. 

  16. What if my student does not want to attend any of the activities during Family Weekend? Should I still come?

    Yes! Family Weekend is an opportunity for families to both enjoy and learn more about the institution—be able to support your student throughout their educational career. If your student does not want to attend, it may be because they are unsure, which is natural. Many families attend Family Weekend and see their student only occasionally. Others have their students with them at everything—it really depends upon the student. If you want to come, please do.

  17. Can we have a special parking pass?

    Parking is available close to all facilities on campus for those vehicles displaying disabled parking identification. For individuals without a disabled license plate or placard, drop-off areas are available near most buildings utilized for Homecoming and Family Weekend. Rutgers bus service is throughout the weekend for various locations around campus. Review additional information about accessible parking and guidelines on campus.

  18. What if I cannot pay for my family to attend?

    We recognize the financial commitment required for families to attend Homecoming and Family Weekend.  A limited number of fee waivers are available for families who qualify based on Pell Grant eligibility. The waiver provides funding for up to four family members to participate. Please email ruparents@echo.rutgers.edu for assistance with this process.