University of Massachusetts Amherst: Admissions and Housing

Want a great college experience with top-notch academics and a friendly community? UMass Amherst might be perfect for you! 

It is home to over 31,000 students and is supported by a dedicated team of 1,900+ faculty members. Its global community includes 307,000+ alumni worldwide. Proudly, the University of Massachusetts Amherst holds the #26 spot in the U.S. News & World Report ranking among 225 top national public universities.

Let us walk through everything from top courses to tuition, scholarships, and how to apply to the University of Umass Amherst in 2025. 

About the University of Massachusetts Amherst

The University of Massachusetts Amherst began its journey in 1863 as Massachusetts Agricultural College. Initially dedicated to agricultural and mechanical studies, the institution gradually broadened its academic programs, keeping pace with the nation’s educational and industrial growth.

Located in the charming town of Amherst, the University of Massachusetts is the largest public university in New England. With 111 undergraduate degree programs, 79 master’s degree programs, and 49 doctoral programs across many colleges and schools, you’ll find the right academic path for your interests and career goals. The expansive UMass Amherst campus map shows beautiful grounds spanning over 1,450 acres, offering students plenty of things to do in Amherst MA.

University of Massachusetts Amherst Courses

The University of Massachusetts Amherst provides a comprehensive range of academic programs across its colleges and schools:

Undergraduate Courses at Massachusetts Amherst

Every year, the University of Massachusetts Amherst offers more than 200 First-Year Seminars for new students. 

Graduate Courses at the University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst graduate programs span over 29 academic disciplines with 120 internationally recognized courses.

University of Massachusetts Amherst Admission Requirements

Admission into the University of Massachusetts Amherst is competitive, with a UMass Amherst acceptance rate of 58-65%. The simple process makes it one of the best universities for spring intake in the USA. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Undergraduate Admission Requirements

• Application Platforms: Apply through the Common App or Coalition App.
• Application Fee: USD 85 (fee waivers available for eligible students).
• Academic Requirements:
  
  • Average Weighted GPA: 4.05
  • 4 years of English, 4 years of Math, 3-4 years of Science, Social Sciences, and Foreign Language.
• Standardized Tests: Test-optional, but if you submit, the middle 50% ranges are:
  
  • SAT: 1250-1460
  • ACT: 28-33
• Recommendation Letters: One teacher recommendation from a core academic subject.

2. Graduate School Admission Requirements

Requirements vary by program, but generally:

• Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA.
• Application: Through the University of Massachusetts Amherst Graduate School portal.
• Test Scores: Vary by program (GRE, GMAT).
• English Proficiency: International students must demonstrate through:
  
  • TOEFL (iBT): 80
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duolingo: 105
  • PTE: 53
• Letters of Recommendation: 2-3.
• Statement of Purpose: Academic interests, career goals, and why UMass.

How to Apply to the University of Massachusetts Amherst?

The University of Massachusetts Amherst admission is very simple. Below is the application process for undergraduate admission:

Step 1: Choose your application platform and create an account.

Step 2: Start your application, selecting University of Massachusetts Amherst as your destination.

Step 3: Check the deadlines for your program. For undergrads, Early Action is November 5 and Regular Decision is January 15. Upload all required academic transcripts and supporting documents.

Step 4: International students whose native language is not English must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores (unless waived).

Step 5: Submit any program-specific requirements. Note: UMass Amherst is test-optional for most undergraduate applicants.

Step 6: Upload other documents like CV, Resume, or Writing Sample as required.

Step 7: Pay the non-refundable application fee of USD 85.

University of Massachusetts Amherst Deadlines

Knowing the application timelines as a student can make a big difference in your chances of admission. Here are the key deadlines for the 2025-26 academic year:

1. Important Dates & Deadlines (First-Year Students)

2. Important Dates & Deadlines (Transfer Students)

University of Massachusetts Amherst Tuition Fees

Costs are heavily dependent on UMass Amherst tuition fees in-state and UMass Amherst out-of-state tuition fees. Here is a detailed breakdown of the estimated annual expenses for the 2025-2026 academic year:

Full-Time Undergraduates and Stockbridge Students

Graduate Students Full Time 12-Month and Full-time enrollment (9 credits)

Financial Aid and Scholarships

University of Massachusetts Amherst is committed to making education affordable through generous scholarships and financial aid for both undergraduate and graduate students. 

FAFSA Application Process

Students should file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov by the March 1 priority deadline to receive their financial aid offer early in the cycle. Even if you submit after March 1, you can still receive funding, though you should be aware that state and scholarship agencies may have different deadlines.

Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA)

The Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) provides an alternative way to apply for need-based Massachusetts and UMass Amherst-specific financial aid. The process of this UMass Amherst financial aid involves:

1. Completing the MASFA application
2. If required, completing verification of MASFA data with the state Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA)
3. Filling out the Tuition Equity Affidavit and submitting it to the UMass Amherst Bursar’s Office

Financial Aid Awards and Programs

Financial aid awards at the University of Massachusetts Amherst include:

• Need-Based Grants: Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunities Grant, Massachusetts state-funded grant programs, UMass Amherst Grant, and/or University Need-Based Academic Grant.
• MassGrant Plus/Amherst Advantage: These “last dollar” grants ensure that Pell-eligible Massachusetts residents receive funding that covers the full cost of tuition and mandatory fees.
• Merit Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships are automatically considered based on academic achievement. Awards range from USD 1,000 to full tuition. 

One can also opt for the Amber Scholar Scholarship by Amber Student. It is a merit-based scholarship designed to support international students pursuing higher education abroad. With a grant of up to $5,000, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of tuition, UMass Amherst housing, and academic expenses.

Student Accommodation Near University of Massachusetts, Amherst

UMass Amherst is where your future begins, shaped by inspiring faculty, exciting campus life, and real-world learning. But, before you apply, remember that finding comfortable, convenient housing will be a big part of your university experience. Amber specializes in helping students find verified accommodation near UMass Amherst and other top universities worldwide. 

With options ranging from shared apartments to private studios and personal support throughout the booking process, amber takes the stress out of student housing and helps you find the best UMass Amherst dorms to suit your needs and budget. Here are some top off-campus housing options near UMass Amherst:

1. North 116 Flats, Amherst

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