Ever heard of the Boston tea party? We are sure you must have!
Boston is the capital and largest city of the state of Massachusetts in the United States. One of the oldest cities in the country, Boston is popular among the international population because of its universities and locale.
Today, Boston is a thriving city with a diverse economy, world-class educational institutions, and a vibrant cultural scene. Recent findings tell us that Harvard University had 5,261 international students enrolled, while Boston University had 9,357 international students and Northeastern University had 12,364 international students enrolled in the past year.
Known as the sixth most popular US city for international students, Boston's reputation as a hub for higher education and research attracts students from all over the world, with many drawn to the city's renowned universities and research institutions. Additionally, Boston's vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and welcoming community make it an attractive destination for students seeking an international education.
And if you too, are attracted by the best colleges in Boston, you, my friend have landed at the right page! In this blog, we will tell you all about the top universities in Massachusetts, and their salient features!
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10 Top Universities in Boston
Boston is home to several prestigious universities, including some of the best in the world. Here are some of the top universities in Boston as ranked by the US News & World Report:
US News & World Report Rankings 2023 |
University |
Location |
Tuition Fees (international) |
1 |
Harvard University |
Cambridge, MA |
$58,875 |
2 |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
Cambridge, MA |
$58,240 |
3 |
Tufts University |
Medford, MA |
$60,862 |
4 |
Boston College |
Chestnut Hill, MA |
$60,120 |
5 |
Boston University |
Boston, MA |
$58,072 |
6 |
Northeastern University |
Boston, MA |
$53,506 |
7 |
Brandeis University |
Waltham, MA |
$60,618 |
8 |
Suffolk University |
Boston, MA |
$38,580 |
9 |
Emerson College |
Boston, MA |
$47,660 |
10 |
University of Massachusetts Boston |
Boston, MA |
$34,455 |
Popular Programs Offered at Best Colleges in Boston
Boston is home to several prestigious universities that offer a wide range of programs to students. For instance, Harvard University is renowned for its business, law, and medical programs, while Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is recognized for its excellence in engineering and technology fields. Boston University offers programs in various fields such as education, communications, and public health. Other notable universities in the city include Northeastern University, which is known for its co-op program, and Tufts University, which is recognized for its programs in international relations and medicine.
Given below are some popular programs offered at top universities in Massachusetts:
University |
Program Name |
Average Tuition Fees |
Harvard University |
Business Administration (MBA) |
$74,500 per year |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
Computer Science and Engineering |
$58,240 per year |
Tufts University |
International Relations |
$60,862 per year |
Boston College |
Economics |
$60,120 per year |
Boston University |
Journalism |
$58,072 per year |
Northeastern University |
Pharmacy |
$53,506 per year |
Brandeis University |
Social Policy |
$60,618 per year |
Suffolk University |
Law |
$38,580 per year |
Emerson College |
Film and Media Arts |
$47,660 per year |
University of Massachusetts Boston |
Nursing |
$34,455 per year |
Why Study in Boston?
Boston is a city that is known for its rich history, world-renowned universities, thriving industries, and vibrant cultural scene. Here are some reasons why studying in Boston is a great choice:
- Top-ranked universities: Boston is home to some of the world's top-ranked universities, such as Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Boston University, Boston College, and Tufts University. These institutions offer a wide range of programs and disciplines, providing students with access to excellent academic resources and opportunities.
- Diverse student population: Boston attracts students from all over the world, making it a truly diverse and multicultural city. Studying alongside students from different cultures and backgrounds can broaden your horizons and help you develop a global perspective.
- Strong job market: Boston is a hub for many industries, including healthcare, finance, technology, and education. Graduates from Boston's universities are in high demand, and the city offers many job opportunities for students and graduates alike.
- Rich history and culture: Boston has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era, and its landmarks and museums offer a glimpse into America's past. The city also has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous theaters, music venues, and museums.
- Access to outdoor activities: Boston is located on the coast and has many parks and outdoor spaces for students to explore, such as the Boston Common, the Charles River Esplanade, and the Harbor Islands. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, sailing, and skiing, within driving distance of the city.
Admission Requirements for Top universities in Massachusetts
The admission requirements for top universities in Massachusetts vary depending on the institution, program of study, and level of study. However, here are some general requirements that are commonly required:
Undergraduate Admission Requirements:
- Completed application form with application fee
- Official high school transcript or equivalent
- SAT or ACT scores (optional for some universities due to COVID-19)
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or guidance counselors
- Personal statement or essay
- English language proficiency test scores (for non-native English speakers)
Graduate Admission Requirements:
- Completed application form with application fee
- Official transcripts from all universities attended
- Standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, etc.) depending on the program of study
- Letters of recommendation from professors or professionals in the field
- Personal statement or essay
- English language proficiency test scores (for non-native English speakers)
Other Requirements:
- Application deadlines vary by institution and program, so it is important to check with the specific university for their deadlines.
- Some universities may require an interview or portfolio for certain programs or departments.
- Additional requirements may be necessary for international students, such as visa documentation and financial proof of support.
- It is important to note that admission to top universities in Massachusetts is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Admission decisions are based on a holistic review of the applicant's academic performance, extracurricular activities, personal achievements, and potential for success in the university's academic community.
Application Process for Best Colleges in Boston
The application process for best colleges in Boston typically includes the following steps:
- Research and Select Colleges: First, research and select the colleges you are interested in applying to. You can consider factors such as location, academic programs, campus culture, and student life.
- Create an Account: Create an account on the college's application portal or Common Application website.
- Complete Application: Fill out the application form, including personal information, academic records, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and essays/personal statements.
- Submit Transcripts: Arrange for your official high school transcripts to be sent directly to the colleges you are applying to.
- Submit Test Scores: If required by the college, submit your standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) to the college directly from the testing agency.
- Letters of Recommendation: Some colleges may require letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other professionals. Be sure to request these in advance and provide the recommenders with ample time to complete them.
- Pay Application Fee: Submit the application fee or apply for a fee waiver if applicable.
- Submit Supplemental Materials: Some colleges may require additional materials such as a resume, portfolio, or writing samples.
- Track Application Status: Check the status of your application regularly to ensure all materials have been received and your application is complete.
- Receive Decision: After a thorough review of your application, the college will notify you of their admission decision. This typically happens in the spring for fall admission and in the fall for spring admission.
Cost to Study in Boston
Given below is the table of cost to study in Boston. This includes tuition and fees, housing and meal plans, books and supplies, and travel expenses:
University |
Undergraduate Cost of Attendance (per year) |
Graduate Cost of Attendance (per year) |
Harvard University |
$80,170 |
$72,500 - $83,200 |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
$76,891 |
$85,600 - $97,500 |
Boston University |
$80,082 |
$60,858 - $85,218 |
Northeastern University |
$77,122 |
$38,274 - $88,384 |
Tufts University |
$80,546 |
$62,432 - $85,698 |
Boston College |
$78,864 |
$45,422 - $73,594 |
Emerson College |
$71,760 |
$44,070 - $48,950 |
Suffolk University |
$64,420 |
$40,910 - $51,300 |
Simmons University |
$69,816 |
$39,656 - $58,304 |
The cost of attendance includes:
- Tuition and Fees: This includes the cost of courses and any mandatory fees charged by the university.
- Housing and Meal Plans: This includes the cost of on-campus or off-campus housing and a meal plan for students who live on campus.
- Books and Supplies: This includes the cost of textbooks, course materials, and other supplies needed for classes.
- Travel Expenses: This includes the cost of transportation to and from campus, as well as any other travel expenses incurred during the academic year.
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Financial Aid Offered at Boston Universities
Here is a table of the top universities in Boston with good scholarships, along with the amount offered and eligibility criteria:
University |
Scholarship Name |
Amount Offered |
Eligibility Criteria |
Harvard University |
Harvard College Scholarships |
Varies |
Need-based for undergraduate students; based on academic achievement and potential for graduate students |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
MIT Scholarships |
Varies |
Need-based for undergraduate and graduate students |
Boston University |
Trustee Scholarship |
Full tuition |
Merit-based for undergraduate students |
Northeastern University |
Torch Scholars Program |
Full tuition, room and board |
Need-based for first-generation college students |
Tufts University |
Tufts Scholarship |
Varies |
Need-based for undergraduate and graduate students |
Boston College |
Presidential Scholars Program |
Full tuition |
Merit-based for undergraduate students |
Emerson College |
Presidential Fellowship |
Full tuition |
Merit-based for graduate students |
Suffolk University |
Presidential Scholarship |
Full tuition |
Merit-based for undergraduate students |
Simmons University |
The Simmons Scholarship |
Varies |
Need-based for undergraduate students |
Career Prospects at Top Universities in Boston
Boston is home to some of the top universities in the world, offering a wide range of career prospects for graduates. Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are renowned for their programs in engineering, technology, and business, offering career opportunities in fields such as software engineering, management consulting, and investment banking. Boston University and Northeastern University provide opportunities in marketing, project management, and software development. Graduates from these universities are highly sought after by employers across various industries, with many landing high-paying jobs in their respective fields.
Here is a table of career prospects at some of the top colleges in Boston:
University |
Job Profile |
Average Salary |
Harvard University |
Software Engineer |
$123,400 per year |
Management Consultant |
$101,900 per year |
|
Investment Banker |
$97,100 per year |
|
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
Data Scientist |
$112,600 per year |
Software Developer |
$105,900 per year |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
$84,000 per year |
|
Boston University |
Marketing Manager |
$108,200 per year |
Human Resources Manager |
$101,000 per year |
|
Financial Analyst |
$76,000 per year |
|
Northeastern University |
Software Developer |
$102,600 per year |
Project Manager |
$93,800 per year |
|
Marketing Coordinator |
$53,700 per year |
|
Tufts University |
Medical Doctor |
$209,600 per year |
Software Engineer |
$107,500 per year |
|
Environmental Scientist |
$67,500 per year |
|
Boston College |
Marketing Manager |
$108,200 per year |
Financial Analyst |
$76,000 per year |
|
Human Resources Manager |
$101,000 per year |
|
Emerson College |
Marketing Coordinator |
$53,700 per year |
Social Media Manager |
$52,500 per year |
|
Content Writer |
$50,500 per year |
|
Suffolk University |
Financial Analyst |
$76,000 per year |
Marketing Manager |
$108,200 per year |
|
Human Resources Manager |
$101,000 per year |
|
Simmons University |
Social Worker |
$51,200 per year |
Registered Nurse |
$75,500 per year |
|
Human Resources Manager |
$101,000 per year |
These salaries are based on the average salaries reported by PayScale for professionals with 0-5 years of experience in each field.
About scope of career in Boston
Boston is a vibrant city with a thriving job market and a wide range of career opportunities across various industries. The city is home to some of the top companies in the world, including biotech and pharmaceutical firms, financial institutions, technology companies, and more. Boston also has a thriving start-up scene, making it an ideal destination for those looking to launch their own businesses.
Boston's strong educational ecosystem, including some of the top universities in the world, provides graduates with a wealth of opportunities to launch successful careers. The city's top industries include healthcare and life sciences, technology, finance, education, and professional services. Some of the top employers in Boston include Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Liberty Mutual, Fidelity Investments, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals, among others. So, what’s the wait? Fast forward your study abroad journey in Boston and reach out to pur Yocket Experts!