12 Best Universities in Boston: Rankings, Requirements & Fees

Boston has become a hub for innovation and intellectualism, a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and exceptional higher education institutions. You will find most of the top colleges in Boston. From Harvard University, famously depicted in "Good Will Hunting," to MIT, known for inspiring the likes of Tony Stark (aka Iron Man) to Hult International Business School, universities in Boston are some of the most prestigious in the world. So, join us as we learn about the top rated colleges in Boston and uncover what are the ranking of colleges in Boston.

How many colleges and universities are in Boston?

You might be wondering how many colleges are there in Boston? So, Boston is home to 35 top universities in Boston MA, according to the Boston Redevelopment Authority. This includes a range of prestigious school in Massachusetts, such as Boston University, Boston College, and Northeastern University.

However, this number only covers the popular colleges in Boston itself. When considering the entire Greater Boston area, the number of institutions increases to 85, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This count includes well-known schools like Harvard University, which, though located in Cambridge, MA, is often considered part of the broader Boston area.

Despite Boston having only 10% of the state's population, it accounts for 34% of Massachusetts’ college students. The city ranks fourth in terms of student population, with a larger number of students compared to residents. As a result, Boston’s academic institutions have a noticeable presence throughout the city.

If you plan to study at a university or major colleges in Boston area, you’ll be joining a student body of over 300,000 across the region’s many institutions.

Top 12 Universities in Boston

The top universities in Boston are one of the major reasons for students to choose the metropolitan area. Boston also offers a very pleasant lifestyle for students and a great academic aspect. If you're wondering what sets these universities apart from other universities in the United States, keep reading to find out about the acceptance rates, top courses, and a lot more:

1. Harvard University

Location: Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States
Tuition Fees: $38,480 per year
Acceptance Rate: 3.2%
Eligibility Criteria: 4.18 GPA & 1480-1580 SAT & 35 ACT
Notable Alumni: Barack Obama (44th U.S. President), Natalie Portman (Academy Award-winning actress), John F. Kennedy (35th U.S. President), Nobel Prize winners such as Michael Rosbash
Top Courses: Engineering, Technology, Science, Architecture

Talking of the best universities in Boston, we can’t pass by without mentioning Harvard. Beginning with just nine students, Harvard University is among the best engineering colleges in Boston. Students have a wide range of degree options, with around 90 UG and 150 PG programs. Since it is one of the best colleges in Boston, students receive offers from companies such as Amazon, Google, and JP Morgan Chase. There are also several cafes in Boston that you could visit after attending your lectures, which you can read more about in our blog! Harvard University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities globally, offers over 90 undergraduate and 150 graduate programs. With an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 6,700 students and graduate enrollment of around 14,000 students, it is known for its exceptional academic rigor. Established in 1636, this best universities in Boston is a top choice for students aiming to work at companies like Amazon, Google, and JP Morgan Chase.

2. Massachusetts Institutes of Technology (MIT) 

Location: 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
Tuition Fees: $46,400 per year
Acceptance Rate: 4%
Eligibility Criteria: 1500 SAT
Notable Alumni: Benjamin Netanyahu (Prime Minister of Israel), David Nolan (Co-founder of Ethereum), Nobel Prize winner Robert Langer

Top Courses: Science, Business Administration, Management, Technology

MIT founded in 1861, is renowned for its innovative research and education in technology and engineering. It enrolls about 4,500 undergraduate students and 7,000 graduate students. It is among the best universities in Boston. Established as a unique and independent educational institution, this is the best university in Boston that combines teaching and research to tackle real-world problems. Its departments span five schools, introducing innovative methods of learning on campus. The top contributors to this population are China, followed by India. Graduates from this best college in Boston are in high demand by companies such as Amazon, Bain & Company, The Blackstone Group, Meta, JP Morgan Chase & Co., Nike, Google, and many others. 

3. Boston University 

Location: Boston, MA 02215, United States
Tuition Fees: $41,350 per year
Acceptance Rate: 14.4%
Eligibility Criteria: 3.25 GPA, 1442 SAT & 33 ACT
Notable Alumni: Martin Luther King Jr. (Civil Rights Leader), Julianne Moore (Academy Award-winning actress), Shane McMahon (WWE executive)
No. of Scholarship: 2
Top Courses: Engineering, Business Management, Science, Arts

You might have come across the question of what is Boston University known for? The answer revolves around with a diverse student body exceeding 35,000 from 130 nations, this is one of the best university in Boston with high Boston university acceptance rate. As per Times Higher Education, Boston university ranks among the city's finest. If considering a move to Boston, understanding its cost of living is crucial. Renowned for its private research, Boston University hosts a substantial international student population, comprising a third of its attendees. This one of the best universities in Boston is founded in 1839, Boston University hosts approximately 33,000 undergraduate students and 14,000 graduate students. It is renowned for its research programs, particularly in business, engineering, and arts, and ranks among the top universities in Boston. The university has a diverse student body from over 130 countries.

4. Tufts University 

Location: 419 Boston Ave, Medford, MA 02155, United States
Tuition Fees: $47,300 per year
Acceptance Rate: 9.7%
Eligibility Criteria: GPA 4.04, 1540 SAT, 34 ACT
Notable Alumni: Tracy Chapman (Grammy Award-winning musician), Jamie Dimon (CEO of JPMorgan Chase)

No. of Scholarship: 338
Top Courses: Engineering, Business Management, Science, Technology

Tufts University, founded in 1852, has a strong reputation for its interdisciplinary approach to education. With an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 5,500 students and graduate enrollment of around 2,000 students, Tufts is known for its focus on research and public service. The university is committed to promoting active citizenship and interdisciplinary education. One of the best universities in Boston, Tufts caters to international students and specializes in research and development. Along with an extensive range of study programmes abroad, it promotes public services and activity citizenship across all disciplines. Being one of the famous universities in Boston, Tufts comprises 12 schools. It ranks among the 30 top universities in Boston USA as it has diversity in its courses and research opportunities. Interdisciplinary education and active citizenship are the highlights of Tufts University, which is easily one of the top Boston universities.

‍5. Northeastern University

Location: 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States
Tuition Fees: $39,250 per year
Acceptance Rate: 6.8%
Eligibility Criteria: GPA 3.0, 600-650 GMAT
Notable Alumni: Nikesh Arora (CEO of Palo Alto Networks), Patrice O'Neal (Comedian), Beverly Johnson (Supermodel)
No. of Scholarship: 7
Top Courses: Technology, Engineering, Arts, Architecture

Northeastern University stands out as one of the best universities in Boston. It has a diverse student body, comprising 34% international students from 144 countries. Northeastern University is one of the best universities in Boston for international students and offers excellent student opportunities to participate in sports teams and research centers. The College of Engineering is among the best engineering colleges in Boston, with an enrollment of over 4,000 students. Global Engagement Research and Innovation are the popular highlights of Northeastern University. Northeastern University, founded in 1898, offers an innovative educational experience with its emphasis on experiential learning and global engagement. 

6. Boston College 

Location: 140 Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, United States
Tuition Fees: $47,500 per year
Acceptance Rate: 16.7%
Eligibility Criteria: GPA 3.5, 1,442 SAT, 33 ACT
Notable Alumni: Howard Stern (Radio Personality), Geena Davis (Academy Award-winning actress), David Zaslav (CEO of Discovery Communications)
Top Courses: Finance, Economics, Applied Psychology, Computer Science

Located in Chestnut Hill, Boston College is a Jesuit Catholic private research university and is one of the top colleges in Boston. It is also considered one of the best universities in Boston that is well-known for its Gothic architecture, Chestnut Hill Reservoir, and the Boston Marathon course. The 130-acre suburban campus has a welcoming community atmosphere. In fact, this college has been constantly ranked among the best universities in Boston for a couple of years. Founded in 1863, Boston College has a vibrant academic community with a strong focus on business, finance, and applied psychology. This one of the best universities in Boston enrolls approximately 9,100 undergraduate students and 2,500 graduate students. The campus, which is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture, provides a welcoming atmosphere to its diverse student body.

7. Brandeis University

Location: 415 South St, Waltham, MA 02453, United States
Tuition Fees: $51,000 per year
Acceptance Rate: 39.4%
Eligibility Criteria: GPA 3.75, 1370-1530
Notable Alumni: Michael Sandel (Political Philosopher), Barry Newman (Actor)Top Courses: Social Science, Public Administration and Social Services, Mathematics and Statistics, Psychology

Brandeis University was founded in 1948 by the American Jewish Justice of the US Supreme Court as a non-sectarian institution that welcomes students from all backgrounds. The university is named after Louis D. Brandies, the first Jewish Justice of the United Supreme Court, so Justice was certainly served. The student-to-faculty ratio is 9:1, which allows for small class sizes and individual attention from professors. Considered one of the best universities in Boston, it has also been recognised for its strong Jewish studies programs and contributions to neurosciences, international and global studies and social policies. With approximately 3,300 undergraduate students and 700 graduate students, Brandeis stands out for its research contributions in the fields of neuroscience and global studies. 

8. University of Massachusetts

Location: 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125, United States
Tuition Fees: $29,500 per year
Acceptance Rate: 80.08%
Eligibility Criteria: GPA 3, 1280-1450 SAT, 29-33 ACT
Notable Alumni: Bill Pullman (Actor), Jack Welch (Former CEO of GE), Marcus Camby (NBA Player)
No. of Scholarship: 1
Top Courses: Psychology, Business/commerce, Social Sciences, Computer

The University of Massachusetts is one of the top Boston universities. It is recognised for its strong commitment to urban education, community, engagement and social Justice. This university is known for its strong programs in science, including marine science, environmental science and nursing. Recognized as one of the best universities in Boston, it is also strongly committed to sustainability and has implemented numerous green initiatives, including LEED-certified buildings and a campus-wide recycling program. Founded in 1852, the University of Massachusetts is known for its urban education and community engagement programs. This one of the best universities in Boston has approximately 15,000 undergraduate students and 3,000 graduate students. UMass is committed to sustainability and offers strong programs in marine science, environmental science, and nursing.

9. Suffolk University

Location: 73 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02108, United States
Tuition Fees: $30,000 to $35,000 per year.
Acceptance Rate: 86.8%
Eligibility Criteria: 1090-1273 SAT, 24-30 ACT
Notable Alumni: Benedict (Actor), Linda Dorcena Forry (Politician)

No. of Scholarship: 10

Top Courses: MBA, Business Analytics, Art and design, Architecture

This dynamic institution offers students a world-class education in a vibrant and exciting city. Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Suffolk University has been consistently ranked among the best universities in Boston and the Northeastern United States. The faculty includes accomplished scholars, researchers and practitioners dedicated to helping students achieve their academic and professional goals. In addition to traditional classroom learning, this famous university in Boston presents a variety of experiential learning opportunities, such as study abroad programs, internships, and community service projects. Suffolk University, founded in 1906, is known for its experiential learning opportunities and strong academic programs. The university has approximately 2,800 undergraduate students and 900 graduate students. It has one of the best MBA programs in Boston that is particularly well-regarded in the fields of business analytics and management.

10. Simmons University

Location: 300 Fenway, Boston, MA 02115, United States
Tuition Fees: $35,000 to $40,000
Acceptance Rate: 75.6%
Eligibility Criteria: GPA 3.0, College Level match GPA: 3.0
Notable Alumni: Elinor Lipman (Author), Winston Tabb (Librarian), David Ferriero (Archivist of the U.S.)
Top Courses: Health Professions, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Social Sciences, Biopsychology

Simmons University is a private women's university in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. It is one of the best universities in Boston and has a long history of empowering women through education. In addition to traditional classroom learning, this college offers a variety of experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, service-learning projects, and research collaborations with faculty members. The university is committed to providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen fields. Simmons University, founded in 1899, focuses on empowering women and promoting diversity. The university has an undergraduate enrollment of around 1,400 students and a graduate enrollment of approximately 700 students. It is known for its research and internship opportunities in health professions and social sciences.

11. Harvard Business School

Location: Boston, MA 02163, USA
Tuition Fees: $87,872 to  $93,655
Acceptance Rate: 12%
Eligibility Criteria: Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree, strong GMAT or GRE scores, work experience, and essays
Notable Alumni: Meg Whitman, Michael Bloomberg, Jim Farley
Top Courses: Data Science for Business(DSB), Finance 1 (FIN1), Financial Reporting and Control (FRC), Leadership & Organizational Behavior (LEAD), Marketing (MKT)

Harvard Business School (HBS) is one of the top-ranked business schools globally, known for its rigorous academic programs and strong focus on real-world business practices. Through case studies and a collaborative learning environment, HBS prepares students to become effective leaders in a variety of industries. This is the best university in Boston to offer a flagship MBA program, Executive Education programs for experienced professionals, doctoral programs, and even online certificate courses. Founded in 1908, Harvard Business School is known for its case-study method of teaching, preparing students for leadership roles in various industries. The school has a graduate

12. Cambridge College

Location: 500 Rutherford Ave, Boston, MA 02129, USA
Tuition Fees:$17,190 - $21,223 per year
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Eligibility Criteria: High school transcript (original) showing graduation or a recognized equivalent such as a General Educational Development (GED)/ HiSET certificate.
Notable Alumni: Jaime Parello (Community Leader), Steven Hassan (Author and Expert in Cults), Chaira Molina (Social Worker and Advocate)

Top Courses: Business, Early Childhood Education, Human Services

Established in 1971, the Cambridge College offers a diverse range of programs, encompassing undergraduate certificates all the way up to doctoral degrees. Fields of study lean towards education, psychology, and business, making it a valuable option for those seeking to advance their careers or switch paths entirely. Due to the diversity of courses offered, Cambridge College is surely one of the best universities in Boston. This is one of the good colleges in Boston, established in 1971, offers a wide variety of programs ranging from undergraduate certificates to doctoral degrees. The college enrolls approximately 1,200 students, with a focus on adult learners who seek to further their education or shift their careers. The university is especially known for its strong programs in education, psychology, and human services.

Why to Choose Boston to Study in USA?

Did you know that the top colleges in Boston Massachusetts offer more than 300 programs of study? Here are some of the reasons why you should choose the best universities in Boston Massachusetts for your bright future!

1. Global Recognition

The best universities in Boston are globally recognized and are part of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a prestigious association of top research universities in the United States and Canada. Studying at one of these top Boston universities is a great way to be globally recognized, due to their reputation!

2. Career Prospects

A degree from the best colleges in Boston opens doors. Recruiters and CEOs rank their graduates highly for employability. Thanks to the excellent standard of recognition that you will receive here, your career prospects are bound to increase two-fold!

3. City Life

Boston is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. When you’re studying at one of the best universities in Boston, you’re in the middle of it all. Not only are there excellent opportunities for education, but there’s also a lot to do after that as well. 

4. Residential Campus

Several Boston top colleges provide a variety of living communities and guarantee on-campus housing for all four years of your undergraduate experience. However, if you wish to stay elsewhere, then exploring the best neighborhoods in Boston is a great way for you to get started! 

5. Global Perspective

With courses on global topics, faculty research on every continent, students from nearly 100 countries, and alumni living in over 180 of the world’s countries, Boston has created quite a legacy for itself. All over the world, this city is known for its excellence and abundance of opportunities. 

So, this was our curated list of universities in Boston USA along with the Boston colleges ranking. We hope this makes your decision making process a whole lot easier. Also, as you prepare for admission to the best universities in Boston, amber's exam preparation blogs offer invaluable guidance for exams like GRE, GMAT, and IELTS. With renowned institutions such as Harvard, MIT, and Boston University, Boston promises a rich educational experience amid a culturally vibrant environment. Whether your passion lies in business, science, engineering, or the liberal arts, these best universities in Boston stand ready to fulfill your academic aspirations.