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10 Top Universities in Boston 2024: Best Colleges in Boston Admission Requirements, Application Process, Scholarships, Tuition & More 

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Rohan Deshmukh
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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! 

Ready to cheer for the Boston Red Sox? Wait no more! Take this 15-minutes FREE call with our Yocket Counselors and start your admission process asap! 

Table Of Contents

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

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! 

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Universities in Boston 

What are some Ivy League universities in Boston? 

What are some universities in Boston with high acceptance rates?

What are some of the best universities in Boston?

What programs are top universities in Boston known for?

What is the cost of tuition at universities in Boston with highest rankings?

What is campus life like at universities in Boston with highest rankings?

What is the student body like at top universities in Massachusetts?

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