This guide ranks 10 colleges in Massachusetts by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.

What is the hardest college to get into in Massachusetts?

Harvard University has the lowest acceptance rate among Massachusetts colleges on this list at 3.5%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.

Which Massachusetts college has the highest graduate salary?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among Massachusetts colleges on this list, at $143,372. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.

Should I stay in Massachusetts for college?

In-state public colleges in Massachusetts typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in Massachusetts charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.

Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.

Top Colleges in Massachusetts

FAQs about colleges in Massachusetts

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