How hard is it to get into University of Massachusetts Amherst?
With a 59.7% acceptance rate, University of Massachusetts Amherst is selective — attainable for solid, well-prepared applicants. It enrolls roughly 23,920 undergraduates (small town setting) in Amherst, MA. Solid grades, a sensible test plan, and thoughtful essays go a long way here.
What it takes to get in
- SAT: admitted students land around 1330–1480 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
- ACT: the middle 50% is about 30–33.
- GPA: admitted students average around 4.04. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
- Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
- Essays: at University of Massachusetts Amherst's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.
Cost
Published tuition is about $40,873 out-of-state ($17,601 in-state) per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.
Notable programs
Engineering · Business · Computer Science · Nursing
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- What is University of Massachusetts Amherst's acceptance rate?
- University of Massachusetts Amherst's acceptance rate is 59.7%, which makes it selective — attainable for solid, well-prepared applicants.
- What SAT or ACT score do you need for University of Massachusetts Amherst?
- Admitted students typically score about 1330–1480 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 30–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
- Is University of Massachusetts Amherst test-optional?
- University of Massachusetts Amherst's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.
Sources & official links
- University of Massachusetts Amherst official website
- University of Massachusetts Amherst on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
- Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.
Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on University of Massachusetts Amherst’s official admissions site.