2019 Best Colleges in Boston Area

Best Colleges

68 results

Massachusetts Institute of Technology
4 Year
Cambridge, MA
598
1 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Niche User: There were some crucial facts about MIT which made me to apply to it. Here are they:
1. My first choice is chemical engineering and I always adored to conduct researches in laboratories. Therefore, when I applied to colleges first of all I looked if they have a good undergraduate research opportunities. In MIT with the help UROP I could start researching even from freshman class.
2. Its pass no record style of educating freshmen. There is no grading in the first semester. Instead, one gets "Pass" or "Fail" in his or her transcript. It allows students not to stress too much on grades, but explore the university and majors.
3. Of course it is the best university in the field of chemical engineering. Top notch professors, smart peers and the best laboratories makes MIT unique.
4. It's financially available for all international students. MIT's need blind policy makes it affordable for all who want to attend it.

I hope it helps!
Read 598 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
8% Acceptance Rate
$21,576 Net Price
1460-1590 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Harvard University
4 Year
Cambridge, MA
657
2 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Alum: Harvard University offers the most incredible experience for its students. From the rich history to the esteemed faculty to the vibrant atmosphere of Harvard Square, it is truly one of a kind and inspiring. During my time at Harvard, I got to dance to Gangnam Style with Psy, read a Gutenberg Bible, study and work under my hero, perform fMRIs, and eat brunch in what is essentially the Great Hall of Hogwarts. I cannot begin to tell you the opportunities available here nor what you will learn from working and studying alongside people from all over the world. Harvard also tries to promote diversity further by offering a needs-blind application process and a financial aid package that guarantees you will not have to turn down your acceptance due to financial hardship! Harvard truly takes care of its students, giving them every opportunity imaginable and giving them an experience they will never forget.
Read 657 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
5% Acceptance Rate
$16,205 Net Price
1430-1600 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Tufts University
4 Year
Medford, MA
883
3 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Niche User: I'm a current Tufts 1+4 Fellow. I took a bridge year to learn Spanish, experience a different country and culture, and give back to the international community. After graduating high school and before beginning university I spent a year in Cuenca, Ecuador. I lived with a wonderful host family and volunteered with two different local organizations, a government branch and a tech startup. The 1+4 Program is unique because Tufts covers all costs for students on financial aid. Thank you Tufts!
Read 883 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
14% Acceptance Rate
$28,076 Net Price
1370-1520 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
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Wheaton College - Massachusetts
4 Year
Norton, MA
597
Senior: All of my professors have been incredibly enthusiastic and passionate about their work, which translates very well in the classroom. They have also been astoundingly devoted to helping their students outside of the classroom. Even a professor who retired years ago still meets with me to discuss research and help me with my projects! I can’t say enough good things about the academics here. I love the political climate as well. It’s such a welcoming, inclusive community dedicated to becoming better and better everyday.

Additionally-the dorms are huge compared to most univeristy dorms! Especially the ones for freshmen, so fret not about not being able to fit all your stuff!
Read 597 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
67% Acceptance Rate
$32,821 Net Price
— SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Wellesley College
4 Year
Wellesley, MA
547
4 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Sophomore: Wellesley is a wonderful place to complete an undergraduate education! Not only is the education top-notch, with professional, caring professors, but so is the atmosphere. Students here are truly passionate about what they do, whether it be in academics or extracurricular activities. If you're looking to be surrounded by an awesome group of people while taking fascinating classes, Wellesley is the place for you.
Read 547 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
28% Acceptance Rate
$20,013 Net Price
1310-1500 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Northeastern University
4 Year
Boston, MA
3,247
5 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Freshman: Northeastern University is absolutely amazing! It wasn't really at the forefront of my mind but I'm so glad I decided to go here. I did the NU-in program and had a great time in London. My experience at the university has been super positive when it comes to academics and my social life. The professors are hard working and qualified, the people are friendly, there are a lot of kids from all over the world, and the campus is awesome! Most students come to Northeastern because of the co-op program which is the most significant part of the university. The university does a really great job of preparing students for the workplace and makes sure you are qualified and competitive when it is your time to apply for them. I would recommend this university to students who are social, hard-working and competitive.
Read 3,247 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
29% Acceptance Rate
$29,998 Net Price
1330-1510 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Boston College
4 Year
Chestnut Hill, MA
1,384
6 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Sophomore: Boston College’s Professors make it a wonderful institution. My experience with the chemistry and mathematics department has been especially rewarding. Professors are interesting, professional, and passionate. Aside from academics, the plethora of clubs and activities offered is wonderful. Athletics are also a fun way to spend time and the school spirit is immense. The school is truly a community and everyone seems to enjoy interacting and getting to know one another. I have met the most interesting and intelligent people at BC, and I am glad I chose to come here. Although the student population not as diverse as other schools, there is a niche for everyone regardless of their socioeconomic, religious, ethnic, or cultural identity.
Read 1,384 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
31% Acceptance Rate
$27,167 Net Price
1260-1460 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
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Boston University
4 Year
Boston, MA
3,163
7 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Graduate Student: I absolutely love Boston University! I am actually an online student who lives in Seattle, Washington but recently had the chance to visit this Boston University in person this past February! The architecture is beautiful and the location is as well. I would have been attending the School of Social Work which is a separate campus and is right next to a beautiful body of water. Since I do not attend BU in person, I would love to say that my online professors have been more than helpful; they have personally inspired me as well as motivated me. My professors go above and beyond for me, this is why I will always choose Boston University and recommend this school to everyone!
Read 3,163 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
29% Acceptance Rate
$31,539 Net Price
1220-1420 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Babson College
4 Year
Wellesley, MA
317
8 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Sophomore: Absolutely amazing! Good Professors that have tons of business experience. The alumni association is supportive. We recently held our centennial and that is changing up the campus a lot in a better positive way. We are building a new recreational center, library, and park. The location is priceless if you love the suburban vibe. We are right across the Wellesley Country Club. The food is dramatically improving.
Read 317 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
25% Acceptance Rate
$27,453 Net Price
1170-1370 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Brandeis University
4 Year
Waltham, MA
956
9 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Sophomore: Brandeis University offers students a variety of extracurricular activities and academic challenges to push students to achieve their full potential. The class sizes are generally small and the professors are concerned with student success. However, the residence halls on campus are sub-par; the roof caved in in one building and the heating is either non-existent or unbearable. Additionally, there are kosher options available on campus, which are often more appetizing that the non-kosher options on campus.
Read 956 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
33% Acceptance Rate
$32,148 Net Price
1270-1480 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Bentley University
4 Year
Waltham, MA
668
10 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Junior: I think Bentley has incredible resources and has a great Career Services staff. They are committed to helping students find opportunities for internships/full-time offers after graduation and ensure students are prepared for interviews. Academically, professors care a lot and are always willing to help!
Read 668 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
46% Acceptance Rate
$35,579 Net Price
1060-1290 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Massachusetts - Lowell
4 Year
Lowell, MA
1,138
11 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Sophomore: It's in a great location in Lowell! There's great places to eat around and on campus. The community is very diverse and everyone is pleasant. You won't feel out of place. There's a great amount of things to do in Lowell for music as well as just walking around. The professors are great and are willing to help those who seek help. The school staff is very helpful as well and very knowledgeable. If one person cannot help you, they will find the right person or department that can. The only downside is the construction that's going on right now, but it is to improve some of the older hallways.
Read 1,138 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
61% Acceptance Rate
$18,348 Net Price
1070-1260 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Emerson College
4 Year
Boston, MA
1,025
12 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Alum: My four years at Emerson gave me great friends, helped shape my worldview, and greatly contributed to my career trajectory. The amount of opportunity there, both in and out of classes, is endless. The Emerson connections aren't a myth and the name is recognized outside the film/TV industry as well. I was a marketing communications major and I can't count how many times people in the marketing/advertising industry called out, recognized, and asked me about my school during internship interviews and networking events. After participating in an internship for credit at a Boston agency during my senior year, I received a job offer right before graduation, and I've been very happy there since!
Read 1,025 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
48% Acceptance Rate
$39,263 Net Price
1120-1330 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
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Stonehill College
4 Year
Easton, MA
503
13 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Sophomore: Stonehill College is a beautiful school located in the suburbs of Easton Ma. This school is small and tight knit, but very inclusive. Even though the school is a Catholic affiliated college, you do not have to be Catholic to attend. They are very open and accepting to all, and have many programs to support diversity. The schools resources are very good, and help both academically and for your career. Some of the services that are the best are their career services, the center for writing and academic achievement, and counciling services. The professors at this college are very helpful and you will get to know them. You are not just a name on the roster for the lecture.
Read 503 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
73% Acceptance Rate
$31,010 Net Price
1030-1230 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Berklee College of Music
4 Year
Boston, MA
861
14 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Niche User: Berklee is located in the back bay neighborhood of the beautiful and historic Boston, Massachusetts. The faculty there is so welcoming, and they genuinely care about you and your musical learning. They are so knowledgeable, and each is a currently active member in the music industry. I loved seeing all the amazing in house studios they had there. The cutting edge advancement of this school simply cannot be beat. Every building is safe and you need an ID to get in. There are constantly Berklee Police officers around which makes you feel very safe. The dorms are top of the line in all honesty. The library has an enormous CD collection, and all sorts of books and music scores for students to check out. The cafeteria in the 160 Mass Ave. building sometimes has live performances... In the cafeteria! All the other students that attend school there are so inspiring and love music just as much as you do. The only thing I would like to see change is the cost of tuition being more affordable.
Read 861 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
34% Acceptance Rate
$41,296 Net Price
— SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Simmons College
4 Year
Boston, MA
698
15 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Freshman: I love being a part of a women centered college! Simmons is a wonderful place for people who want small classes with lots of participation. The service learning projects give you the chance to do things in the Boston community that can be applied to future jobs and give you wonderful experiences. It is a small school so that limits some of what is available but the Colleges of the Fenway partnership of the colleges in the area gives students plenty of classes and activities to do right around the corner. You also can not beat the location, right in the heart of Fenway you have a wonderful area surrounding the school. As well as the T to get you any where else you might want to go.
Read 698 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
64% Acceptance Rate
$29,781 Net Price
1080-1260 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
4 Year
Boston, MA
868
16 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Niche User: Not currently enrolled accepted as a senior in HS & lucky enough to been able to hold a great relationship with this school. First of all, the school is so nurturing. You can first witness that through meeting admissions counselors. They're SO SWEET, actually care about you, & show that the COLLEGE cares about you. I met the counselor at a college fair & from there, we instantly clicked! She followed up w/ emails, letters, interviews and super friendly greetings when I went to the open house. GREAT financial aid, always looking to improve. I heard the best parts about MCPHS are the massages, puppy visits during finals, etc. Also, this is a college where it's great to make friends quick being very diverse. There's people from all over the world, people you can actually connect for once in your life because they're interested in the same things as you: medicine. Still waiting on other acceptance letters, but my experience with MCP so far has been unforgettable!
Read 868 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
84% Acceptance Rate
$37,422 Net Price
950-1180 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
University of Massachusetts - Boston
4 Year
Boston, MA
1,093
17 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Freshman: Since I am a freshman at UMB, this is the first year the school has had dorms on campus and so far, it's great living in the dorms. The price may seem a bit expensive at first but it is worth the price since the beds, room size, space, and amenities are bigger and better than the ones at other universities nearby and in Massachusetts. Plus, there is air-conditioning in the dorms. I'd say living on campus is worth the price if you are able to afford it. If you are one of the ones living on the higher floors, you will be able to see the city of Boston from way up there which is pretty cool! I am glad to choose UMass Boston since it's affordable for my family and that the professors here are pretty great here too! The new dorms was one of the reasons that I wanted to come here. There is a bunch of free stuff here too during the open house and accepted students days.
Read 1,093 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
69% Acceptance Rate
$11,966 Net Price
960-1180 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Wheaton College - Massachusetts
4 Year
Norton, MA
597
18 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Senior: All of my professors have been incredibly enthusiastic and passionate about their work, which translates very well in the classroom. They have also been astoundingly devoted to helping their students outside of the classroom. Even a professor who retired years ago still meets with me to discuss research and help me with my projects! I can’t say enough good things about the academics here. I love the political climate as well. It’s such a welcoming, inclusive community dedicated to becoming better and better everyday.

Additionally-the dorms are huge compared to most univeristy dorms! Especially the ones for freshmen, so fret not about not being able to fit all your stuff!
Read 597 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
67% Acceptance Rate
$32,821 Net Price
— SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Gordon College
4 Year
Wenham, MA
669
19 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Junior: It's a great Christian College. Sometimes people may think we are inside a small circle on our own, but we do learn subjects that are out of our value and beliefs. Because the school's little smaller than other colleges, students can directly relate themselves to the faculties (who are very passionate about teaching). I can't say too much about foods, but they are working on that thankfully.
Read 669 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
92% Acceptance Rate
$29,244 Net Price
890-1210 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Wentworth Institute of Technology
4 Year
Boston, MA
858
20 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Freshman: I chose Wentworth not only because of the many possibilities and opportunities the school provides, but because of the many positive stories and experiences that I have been told by alumni and friends of alumni. In my experience, it seems like a great learning environment. The staff are all friendly and helpful if you have any questions. The campus is small but that's the beauty of it because all of the school's buildings are within a 10 minute walk from each other so there is no need to stress about getting too much exercise! There are countless activities and stores within walking and biking distance of the school if you decide to wander and explore the great city of Boston. Move in day was a breeze and the staff was very helpful and organized to make it as easy as possible. My recommendation would be to consider Wentworth because everything from the location to the academic possibilities are amazing.
Read 858 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
71% Acceptance Rate
$36,579 Net Price
1010-1220 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Merrimack College
4 Year
North Andover, MA
501
21 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Senior: Merrimack College is a small community where you see the same helpful and friendly faces everyday around campus. Merrimack actually allows students to voice their opinions and is constantly improving. Merrimack is where I have made close relationships with professors who have written me wonderful letters of recommendations, which helped me get into law school. I have also met wonderful life long friends here. Merrimack college has provided me with exceptional academic preparation for the real world and stresses the importance of internships and jobs. Merrimack will set you up with a paid internship to help further your career, as most jobs want experience upon hiring. Merrimack also allows you to join a variety of club and meet a diverse set of people. Merrimack is what you make of it, as we are constantly reminded to "make it your Merrimack"!
Read 501 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
82% Acceptance Rate
$33,003 Net Price
930-1120 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Massachusetts College of Art & Design
4 Year
Boston, MA
466
22 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Sophomore: I was adamant against going to college before I first visited Massachusetts College of Art and Design. However, within the first few minutes of my tour of the school, my mind opened up to the possibilities the school offered. I have never enjoyed school. In high school especially, I struggled to reform to the strict rules and enforced attitudes. I had not dreamed of a learning atmosphere where the student's input and idea's were valued as much as a teachers, of a place that encouraged individuality and self expression to the extent that Mass Art does. I feel myself growing and discovering so much about myself as an artist, because my school allows me to trust my intuition. Massachusetts College of Art and Design give's it's students access to incredible equipment and subject matter, but for me the most amazing attribute the school has to offer is the strength it instills in it's students, to trust themselves and pursue whatever it is that we want to explore.
Read 466 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
71% Acceptance Rate
$21,695 Net Price
970-1160 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Emmanuel College - Massachusetts
4 Year
Boston, MA
605
23 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Freshman: As an incoming freshmen, it isn’t always a bit nerve wracking to know that I will be on campus in less than 6 months. But Emmanuel has their doors open for us! I attended a mini lecture in the Political Science department and I found it to be fascinating! This college offers a variety of programs in every field of study. Now I cannot wait to attend there.
Read 605 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
71% Acceptance Rate
$31,891 Net Price
1030-1200 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Endicott College
4 Year
Beverly, MA
833
24 Best Colleges in Boston Area
Freshman: Endicott opens it arms to each individual, accepting all races, disability statuses, learning levels, and so much more. One of the things I looked for in a college is that they were accepting of those with disabilities since I have done and still do clubs with students and young adults with disabilities, Best Buddies for example. Additionally, Endicott has a homey feeling that is impossible to describe, but quite possible to feel and is evident when you are on the campus. It's beauty and wonderful programs make Endicott a must consider for the place to call your home for the next 4 years. Go Gulls!
Read 833 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
79% Acceptance Rate
$34,509 Net Price
980-1160 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
Suffolk University
4 Year
Boston, MA
911
Junior: Suffolk University is not exactly the "college experience" the average senior in High School seeks. It is more like gaining an education while being a full-time adult in a big city. You can't simply buy a handle of vodka and walk down the street to the nearest frat house. You have to find friends with houses who throw parties and hope the cops don't come. Or you need a fake ID and tons of money to afford an Uber, drinks, and club cover fees. Overall though, Suffolk has it's perks. It is literally in the heart of Boston! And the academics are great, especially if you are a Business or Law student. I am in the Arts and Sciences program which is still good, but the Law and Business programs definitely get the most attention.
Read 911 Reviews
B-
Overall Niche Grade
84% Acceptance Rate
$30,498 Net Price
910-1120 SAT Range
Will You Get In?
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Clark University
4 Year
Worcester, MA
709
Freshman: It is a small liberal art college. you can go anywhere on campus within 10 minutes, and it helps a lot when you wake up late.
Again, it is a small community, you would see familiar faces anywhere you I have never expected. People notice you easily, compared to big universities, and vice versa; It is easier to make diverse friends without being constrained in a certain "group."
Clark is one of rare colleges that give substantial amount of scholarships to out of state students and even international students. Almost 70% of the total undergraduate students are out of sate and 15% are international.
Professors are generally kind and generous.
For the campus cafeteria, well, ice cream here is the best!
The only thing I do not like is housing facilities, but other dorms in campus are much new than mine..so this might not matter.
Read 709 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
57% Acceptance Rate
$26,350 Net Price
— SAT Range
Will You Get In?
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Worcester Polytechnic Institute
4 Year
Worcester, MA
630
Sophomore: Very good school for those who are technically inclined and/or interested in engineering. I personally enrolled because I want to study computer science. I’ve studied here for one year and my experience has been amazing thus far, and the following years are looking even more promising. Any graduate can tell you that there is an excellent return on investment and that you won’t have any problem finding a job coming out of it. The dining hall is one of the best in the nation and has tons of variety when it comes to food choice. However, it is spotty and sometimes it's good and other times it isn't. The inconsistency is annoying, but most students only deal with it for their first year.
Read 630 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
48% Acceptance Rate
$40,666 Net Price
1310-1480 SAT Range
Will You Get In?

1 of 3

2019 Best Colleges in the Boston AreaAbout this List

Best Programs

Students

Social Scene

Campus

Athletics

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Harvard University

Tufts University

Wheaton College - Massachusetts

Wellesley College

Northeastern University

Boston College

Boston University

Babson College

Brandeis University

Bentley University

University of Massachusetts - Lowell

Emerson College

Stonehill College

Berklee College of Music

Simmons College

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

University of Massachusetts - Boston

Wheaton College - Massachusetts

Gordon College

Wentworth Institute of Technology

Merrimack College

Massachusetts College of Art & Design

Emmanuel College - Massachusetts

Endicott College

Suffolk University

Clark University

Worcester Polytechnic Institute