2026 College Rankings

Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts

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First-year retention rates measure the percentage of first-year students who come back to campus for a second year. This is an indicator of how happy students are generally with their decision to attend that institution as less students decide to drop out or transfer to another school.

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Rank	Institution	First Year Retention Rate	Acceptance Rate	SAT Score	Your Est. Net Price Avg. Net Price	Median Starting Salary	Save
1	Franklin W Olin College of Engineering	99	23.81	1,490 – 1,560	40370	105483	#1 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Franklin W Olin College of Engineering Needham, MA The Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering was established fairly recently in 1997. Half of the student’s tuition is covered by the Olin Scholarship, and students can choose from three majors: Engineering, General, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical and Electronics Engineering....Read more First Year Retention Rate 99 % Acceptance Rate 23.8% SAT Score 1,490 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $40,370 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $105,483
2	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	99	4.85	1,510 – 1,590	21519	131633	#2 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge, MA The Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or MIT, offers up to a Doctor's degree. It became a land grant-college in 1863. Top majors include Management Science, Computer Science, and Mechanical Engineering. Alumni have gone on to found well-known companies, such as Intel, Koch Industries, Dropbox, and Campbell Soup. First Year Retention Rate 99 % Acceptance Rate 4.9% SAT Score 1,510 – 1,590 Avg. Net Price $21,519 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $131,633
3	Harvard University	98	3.65	1,510 – 1,590	17900	99572	#3 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Harvard University Cambridge, MA Harvard University has more alumni, researchers, and faculty that have won Nobel Prizes and Field Medals than any other school in the world. It also produced eight U.S. presidents, 188 living billionaires, and 110 Olympic medalists....Read more First Year Retention Rate 98 % 1.0% Acceptance Rate 3.7% SAT Score 1,510 – 1,590 Avg. Net Price $17,900 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $99,572
4	Amherst College	97.34	9.01	1,480 – 1,570	17965	62537	#4 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Amherst College Amherst, MA Amherst College is an extremely selective school. A majority of their first-year students come from NY. The third oldest institution of higher education in the state, Amherst was originally a men’s college, becoming coeducational in 1975....Read more First Year Retention Rate 97 % 0.4% Acceptance Rate 9.0% SAT Score 1,480 – 1,570 Avg. Net Price $17,965 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $62,537
5	Northeastern University	96.9	5.22	1,450 – 1,540	34770	78413	#5 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Northeastern University Boston, MA Based in Boston, Northeastern University’s acceptance rate is 5%. They charge $75 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 72% of students attending Northeastern University will receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 96%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 97 % Acceptance Rate 5.2% SAT Score 1,450 – 1,540 Avg. Net Price $34,770 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $78,413
6	Williams College	96.7	8.25	1,500 – 1,560	16988	71754	#6 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Williams College Williamstown, MA Although it was originally founded as a men’s college in 1793, Williams College is composed of 48% men and 51% women today. It was created out of the funds of Ephraim Williams, who died in the French and Indian War. The college received 15,000 applications during the last admissions cycle and accepted 1,270. First Year Retention Rate 97 % 0.3% Acceptance Rate 8.3% SAT Score 1,500 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $16,988 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $71,754
7	Wellesley College	96.5	14.05	1,460 – 1,560	21501	65961	#7 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Wellesley College Wellesley, MA Wellesley College is a private women’s liberal arts college going back to 1870. It’s the largest women’s college, and it has seen famous alumni including Hillary Clinton, Madeleine Albright, and Katharine Lee Bates. Econometrics and Quantitative Economics is the most commonly chosen area of study. First Year Retention Rate 97 % 0.5% Acceptance Rate 14.1% SAT Score 1,460 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $21,501 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $65,961
8	Tufts University	95.5	11.53	1,470 – 1,560	33333	68337	#8 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Tufts University Medford, MA Opened in 1852 as Tufts College, Tufts University is a small liberal arts school. It became a doctoral/research university in the 1970s. The university offers over 70 undergraduate major programs. International Relations and Affairs, Computer Science, and Dentistry are popular areas of study. First Year Retention Rate 96 % 0.5% Acceptance Rate 11.5% SAT Score 1,470 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $33,333 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $68,337
9	Babson College	95	17.09	1,400 – 1,530	30220	60556	#9 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Babson College Wellesley, MA Babson College began as an all-male school in 1919, originally known as Babson Institute, and became coeducational in 1969. It has an astounding 95% first year retention rate and 90% four year graduation rate. The only available undergraduate major is Business Administration and Management, General....Read more First Year Retention Rate 95 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 17.1% SAT Score 1,400 – 1,530 Avg. Net Price $30,220 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,556
10	Boston College	95	16.19	1,450 – 1,540	32590	85717	#10 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Boston College Chestnut Hill, MA A private Jesuit research university, Boston College’s motto is Αἰὲν ἀριστεύειν, Greek for “Ever to Excel.” Their athletes, known as the Eagles, wear maroon and gold and are cheered on by Baldwin the Eagle. Past students include John F. Kerry, Leonard Nimoy, Chris O’Donnell, and Amy Poehler. First Year Retention Rate 95 % Acceptance Rate 16.2% SAT Score 1,450 – 1,540 Avg. Net Price $32,590 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $85,717
11	Boston University	95	11.11	1,430 – 1,530	27551	65655	#11 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Boston University Boston, MA Boston University got its start in 1839 in Vermont as the Newbury Biblical Institute. It moved to Boston in 1867. Today, the university is one of the largest employers in the city. Famous individuals associated with the school include Elie Wiesel, Martin Luther King Jr., William Howard Taft, and Howard Stern. First Year Retention Rate 95 % Acceptance Rate 11.1% SAT Score 1,430 – 1,530 Avg. Net Price $27,551 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $65,655
12	College of the Holy Cross	94.7	17.61	1,260 – 1,420	35455	69984	#12 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts College of the Holy Cross Worcester, MA The College of the Holy Cross is the oldest Catholic college in New England, and today it’s part of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. The school has a 94% first year retention rate, and an impressive 90% four-year graduation rate. Athletes are known as the Crusaders and wear royal purple and white. First Year Retention Rate 95 % 1.8% Acceptance Rate 17.6% SAT Score 1,260 – 1,420 Avg. Net Price $35,455 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $69,984
13	Smith College	94	21	1,430 – 1,540	27823	45731	#13 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Smith College Northampton, MA Located just west of the Connecticut River, Smith College is among the largest women’s colleges in the US. It doesn’t cost anything to apply as an undergraduate. Students enjoy a cozy 7 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and a 94% first year retention rate. Notable alumni include Julia Child, Gloria Steinman, and Sylvia Plath. First Year Retention Rate 94 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 21.0% SAT Score 1,430 – 1,540 Avg. Net Price $27,823 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,731
14	Worcester Polytechnic Institute	94	60.16	1,200 – 1,390	47799	85038	#14 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Worcester Polytechnic Institute Worcester, MA Located in Worcester, Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s acceptance rate is 60%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be available. About 95% of students attending Worcester Polytechnic Institute currently receive institutional grant aid. At Worcester Polytechnic Institute, there is a 94%......Read more First Year Retention Rate 94 % Acceptance Rate 60.2% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,390 Avg. Net Price $47,799 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $85,038
15	Bentley University	93	45.05	1,290 – 1,430	43858	86679	#15 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Bentley University Waltham, MA A private school, Bentley University offers students up to Doctor's degrees. It originally opened as the Bentley School of Accounting and Finance, and today many students choose to major in Finance, General, Business Administration and Management, General, and Business Statistics....Read more First Year Retention Rate 93 % Acceptance Rate 45.1% SAT Score 1,290 – 1,430 Avg. Net Price $43,858 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $86,679
16	University of Massachusetts-Amherst	92	59.73	1,310 – 1,500	22954	60347	#16 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts University of Massachusetts-Amherst Amherst, MA Amherst is the flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts system. It opened in 1863, when it was known as the Massachusetts Agricultural College. Most students stay on after they complete freshman year – the school has a 92% first year retention rate. 84% graduate in six years. First Year Retention Rate 92 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 59.7% SAT Score 1,310 – 1,500 Avg. Net Price $22,954 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,347
17	Montserrat College of Art	91	79.21	850 – 850	35885	24780	#17 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Montserrat College of Art Beverly, MA Located in Beverly, Montserrat College of Art accepts 79% of applicants. They charge $50 for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At Montserrat College of Art, there is a 91% first year retention rate and a 49% four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 91 % 15.2% Acceptance Rate 79.2% SAT Score 850 – 850 Avg. Net Price $35,885 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $24,780
18	Massachusetts College of Art and Design	89	76.27	990 – 1,180	24159	27090	#18 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Massachusetts College of Art and Design Boston, MA Found in Boston, Massachusetts College of Art and Design accepted 76% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests $70 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 70% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 89 % 6.0% Acceptance Rate 76.3% SAT Score 990 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $24,159 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,090
19	Mount Holyoke College	89	36.03	1,390 – 1,540	35782	48590	#19 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Mount Holyoke College South Hadley, MA Mount Holyoke College is the oldest member of the Seven Sisters colleges. Their motto is Psalms 144:12 – “That our daughters may be as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace.” The campus features a botanic garden, an art museum, and the John Payson Williston Observatory....Read more First Year Retention Rate 89 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 36.0% SAT Score 1,390 – 1,540 Avg. Net Price $35,782 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,590
20	Berklee College of Music	88.6	43.53	--	48608	26462	#20 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Berklee College of Music Boston, MA Located in Boston, Berklee College of Music accepts 44% of applicants. They charge $150 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 66% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 89 % 3.7% Acceptance Rate 43.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $48,608 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $26,462
21	Brandeis University	87	40.51	1,400 – 1,520	44668	52967	#21 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Brandeis University Waltham, MA Brandeis University is named for Louis Brandeis, a former Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Students and athletes are appropriately named, going by the Judges. Their mascots are The Judge and Ollie the Owl....Read more First Year Retention Rate 87 % 3.3% Acceptance Rate 40.5% SAT Score 1,400 – 1,520 Avg. Net Price $44,668 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,967
22	Emerson College	86.8	47.49	1,270 – 1,410	50703	42799	#22 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Emerson College Boston, MA Based in Boston, Emerson College accepts 47% of applicants and requests $60 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 78% of students attending Emerson College currently receive institutional grant aid. They receive $25,212 on average. The first year retention rate is 86%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 87 % Acceptance Rate 47.5% SAT Score 1,270 – 1,410 Avg. Net Price $50,703 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,799
23	Massachusetts Maritime Academy	86.79	72.07	1,040 – 1,200	20759	80424	#23 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Massachusetts Maritime Academy Buzzards Bay, MA The second oldest state maritime academy in the country, the Massachusetts Maritime Academy was founded in 1891. Its motto is “Discipline, Knowledge, Leadership.” Students train on the USTS Kennedy and select one of the 7 programs. Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering is the most popular. First Year Retention Rate 87 % 9.9% Acceptance Rate 72.1% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $20,759 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $80,424
24	Endicott College	85	72.29	1,140 – 1,290	39988	57286	#24 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Endicott College Beverly, MA Located in Beverly, Endicott College accepts 72% of applicants. They charge $50 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 97% of students attending Endicott College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 85 % Acceptance Rate 72.3% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $39,988 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $57,286
25	Wheaton College (Massachusetts)	85	71.33	1,150 – 1,320	31638	51607	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Wheaton College (Massachusetts) Norton, MA Wheaton College got its start as the Wheaton Female Seminary in 1834. It received its current moniker in 1912 and began admitting men in 1988. To offer more courses to students, Wheaton has partnerships with Brown University and nine other local schools....Read more First Year Retention Rate 85 % Acceptance Rate 71.3% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $31,638 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,607
26	Gordon College	84.4	85.62	1,150 – 1,370	25250	45839	#26 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Gordon College Wenham, MA Gordon College opened as the Boston Missionary Training Institute in 1889, receiving its current moniker just over 80 years later. With 33 areas of study and awarding up to Post-master's certificates, many students opt for the Biology/Biological Sciences, General program. It also has a 10 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. First Year Retention Rate 84 % 1.7% Acceptance Rate 85.6% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $25,250 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,839
27	Merrimack College	84	73.61	1,050 – 1,180	38849	54316	#27 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Merrimack College North Andover, MA Found in North Andover, Merrimack College accepted 74% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students at Merrimack College currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % Acceptance Rate 73.6% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $38,849 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,316
28	University of Massachusetts-Lowell	84	82.96	1,190 – 1,380	17624	61467	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts University of Massachusetts-Lowell Lowell, MA Located in Lowell, the University of Massachusetts-Lowell accepts 83% of applicants. They charge $70 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 78% of students at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell currently receive institutional grant aid. The school’s first year retention rate is 84% and its......Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 83.0% SAT Score 1,190 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $17,624 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $61,467
29	Wentworth Institute of Technology	84	91.21	1,130 – 1,330	35585	71868	#29 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Wentworth Institute of Technology Boston, MA Based in Boston, Wentworth Institute of Technology accepts 91% of applicants. They require $50 for undergraduate applications. About 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. 84% of students decide to stay at Wentworth Institute of Technology after completing their first year....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 2.3% Acceptance Rate 91.2% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $35,585 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $71,868
30	Assumption University	83.9	82.98	990 – 1,180	29072	46029	#30 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Assumption University Worcester, MA Assumption University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1 and a first year retention rate of 83%. It’s a NCAA Division II with football school and the Greyhounds compete in the Northeast 10 Conference. Wearing blue and white, they’re cheered on by Pierre the Greyhound. First Year Retention Rate 84 % 0.5% Acceptance Rate 83.0% SAT Score 990 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $29,072 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,029
31	Stonehill College	82.76	72.56	1,180 – 1,310	31134	63285	#31 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Stonehill College Easton, MA Located in Easton, Stonehill College accepted 73% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in $60 to apply. Approximately 100% of students at Stonehill College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 83 % Acceptance Rate 72.6% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $31,134 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,285
32	MCPHS University	82	85.21	1,090 – 1,320	37182	77171	#32 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts MCPHS University Boston, MA Located in Boston, MCPHS University’s acceptance rate is 85%. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. About 99% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At MCPHS University, there is a 82% first year retention rate and a 51% four year graduation rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % Acceptance Rate 85.2% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $37,182 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $77,171
33	Simmons University	82	66	1,190 – 1,370	29575	61420	#33 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Simmons University Boston, MA Simmons University is a private women’s institution, though the graduate school does admit men. It was founded as a college in 1899 and became a university in 2018. Simmons has an 8 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and 82% first year retention rate. 99% of students receive institutional grant aid. First Year Retention Rate 82 % Acceptance Rate 66.0% SAT Score 1,190 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $29,575 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $61,420
34	Lesley University	81	94.42	1,040 – 1,240	33111	40150	#34 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Lesley University Cambridge, MA Opened in 1909 as Lesley School, a women’s college for future kindergarten teachers, Lesley University began admitting men in 2005. Today, women still make up a majority of the student body. The school’s motto is “I Would Have Perished Had I Not Persisted,” or “Perissem Ni Perstitissem” in Latin. First Year Retention Rate 81 % Acceptance Rate 94.4% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $33,111 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,150
35	Regis College	81	90.09	860 – 1,070	30212	56223	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Regis College Weston, MA Regis College was founded as a women’s school by the Roman Catholic Sisters of St. Joseph. It started accepting men in 2007. Regis offers up to Doctor's degrees, with 31 available programs and majors. There are currently more graduates than undergraduates attending. First Year Retention Rate 81 % Acceptance Rate 90.1% SAT Score 860 – 1,070 Avg. Net Price $30,212 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $56,223
36	Springfield College	81	71.89	1,080 – 1,330	29198	43692	#36 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Springfield College Springfield, MA Gym teacher James Naismith invented Basketball at Springfield College in 1891, when it was the International Young Men's Christian Association Training School. Students are known as the Pride and wearing maroon and white, they compete in the NCAA Division III with football New England Women's & Men's Athletic Conference. First Year Retention Rate 81 % 3.6% Acceptance Rate 71.9% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $29,198 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,692
37	Emmanuel College	79	75.65	1,170 – 1,340	33214	50180	#37 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Emmanuel College Boston, MA Found in Boston, Emmanuel College accepted 76% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. About 100% of students at Emmanuel College currently receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % Acceptance Rate 75.7% SAT Score 1,170 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $33,214 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,180
38	Worcester State University	78.1	87.99	1,050 – 1,230	14307	50233	#38 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Worcester State University Worcester, MA Based in Worcester, Worcester State University’s acceptance rate is 88% and requests $50 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 51% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. 78% of students continued studying at Worcester State University after completing their first year....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % 2.1% Acceptance Rate 88.0% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $14,307 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,233
39	Hampshire College	78	75.28	1,160 – 1,350	27556	22195	#39 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Hampshire College Amherst, MA Students at Hampshire College follow an alternative curriculum. Instead of an emphasis on GPAs and curriculum, the school places more focus on portfolios, evaluations, and progressive education. 100% of students receive grant aid, averaging about $43,944 each. Alumni include Jon Krakauer, Ken Burns, and Lupita Nyong’o. First Year Retention Rate 78 % 14.7% Acceptance Rate 75.3% SAT Score 1,160 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $27,556 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $22,195
40	Bard College at Simon's Rock	77	97.38	1,170 – 1,400	45395	31072	#40 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Bard College at Simon's Rock Great Barrington, MA Found in Great Barrington, Bard College at Simon's Rock accepts 97% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 99% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. At Bard College at Simon's Rock, there is a 77% first year retention rate and around 0% of students......Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % Acceptance Rate 97.4% SAT Score 1,170 – 1,400 Avg. Net Price $45,395 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $31,072
41	Nichols College	76.4	88.14	960 – 1,180	31032	47830	#41 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Nichols College Dudley, MA Most programs at Nichols College focus on business – in fact, Business/Commerce, General is the most commonly chosen out of 1 available programs and majors. Although the school has Universalist roots, it’s nonsectarian today. The Bisons participate in the Commonwealth Coast Conference....Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % Acceptance Rate 88.1% SAT Score 960 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $31,032 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,830
42	College of Our Lady of the Elms	76	88.82	1,150 – 1,320	22311	54087	#42 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts College of Our Lady of the Elms Chicopee, MA Also known simply as Elms College, College of Our Lady of the Elms has a Latin motto: “Viam Veritatis Elegi” – “I have chosen the way of truth.” It opened as a preparatory academy for women in 1897. Although the school started admitting men in 1998, women still make up most of the student body. First Year Retention Rate 76 % Acceptance Rate 88.8% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $22,311 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,087
43	Dean College	76	73.6	920 – 1,110	31472	30046	#43 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Dean College Franklin, MA Based in Franklin, Dean College’s acceptance rate is 74% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students at Dean College currently receive institutional grant aid. At Dean College, there is a 76% first year retention rate and around 40% of students will earn their degree within four years....Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % Acceptance Rate 73.6% SAT Score 920 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $31,472 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,046
44	Suffolk University	75.12	82.2	1,110 – 1,310	33089	55856	#44 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Suffolk University Boston, MA Based in Boston, Suffolk University’s acceptance rate is 82%. Undergraduates have to send in $50 to apply. Approximately 98% of students attending Suffolk University currently receive institutional grant aid. At Suffolk University, there is a 75% first year retention rate and 47% of students will earn their degree in four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % 0.2% Acceptance Rate 82.2% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $33,089 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,856
45	Boston Architectural College	75	49.92	--	37565	58619	#45 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Boston Architectural College Boston, MA Located in Boston, Boston Architectural College’s acceptance rate is 50% and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 52% of students attending Boston Architectural College currently receive grant aid from the school. 75% of students decide to stay at Boston Architectural College after completing their first......Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % Acceptance Rate 49.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $37,565 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,619
46	Western New England University	74	83.48	1,090 – 1,310	31548	51771	#46 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Western New England University Springfield, MA Based in Springfield, Western New England University’s acceptance rate is 83%. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. About 100% of students attending Western New England University will receive institutional grant aid. They receive $25,209 on average. The first year retention rate is 74%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 83.5% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $31,548 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,771
47	Westfield State University	73.9	86.71	1,000 – 1,210	17723	46861	#47 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Westfield State University Westfield, MA Found in Westfield, Westfield State University accepts 87% of applicants and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. About 63% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention rate is 73% and around 46% of students will graduate......Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 4.5% Acceptance Rate 86.7% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $17,723 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,861
48	Salem State University	73.66	95.57	1,020 – 1,180	19324	48209	#48 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Salem State University Salem, MA Salem State University is a public university located just 30 minutes from Boston. Offering 73 degree programs, the most popular are Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, Psychology, General, and Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % Acceptance Rate 95.6% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $19,324 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,209
49	University of Massachusetts-Boston	73	82.96	1,090 – 1,300	17554	53521	#49 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts University of Massachusetts-Boston Boston, MA Found in Boston, the University of Massachusetts-Boston accepted 83% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $60 for undergraduate applications. About 86% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % Acceptance Rate 83.0% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $17,554 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,521
50	Framingham State University	71	84.91	1,030 – 1,220	16640	46611	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Framingham State University Framingham, MA Located in Framingham, Framingham State University’s acceptance rate is 85%. They request $50 for undergraduate applications. About 70% of students attending Framingham State University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % Acceptance Rate 84.9% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $16,640 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,611
51	Bay Path University	70	73.81	1,040 – 1,180	14935	51548	#51 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Bay Path University Longmeadow, MA Found in Longmeadow, Bay Path University accepts 74% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. About 86% of students attending Bay Path University will receive grant aid from the school. On average, these students are given $25,496 each. The first year retention rate is 70%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % Acceptance Rate 73.8% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $14,935 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,548
52	Lasell University	70	92.7	1,020 – 1,260	28477	45468	#52 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Lasell University Newton, MA Lasell University was founded as a women’s seminary in 1851 and although it became coeducational in 1997, women still make up most of the student body. The school’s motto is “Ignorant of Defeat.” 100% receive grant aid, averaging $34,921 each, and students can earn up to a Master's degree. First Year Retention Rate 70 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 92.7% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $28,477 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,468
53	Fitchburg State University	69.47	86.93	1,070 – 1,230	15820	41999	#53 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Fitchburg State University Fitchburg, MA Located in Fitchburg, Fitchburg State University accepted 87% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $35 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 73% of students attending Fitchburg State University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending......Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 5.4% Acceptance Rate 86.9% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $15,820 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,999
54	Anna Maria College	69	89.6	890 – 1,080	28732	63110	#54 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Anna Maria College Paxton, MA Found in Paxton, Anna Maria College accepted 90% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to pay $25 to apply. Approximately 98% of students at Anna Maria College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention......Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % Acceptance Rate 89.6% SAT Score 890 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $28,732 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,110
55	Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts	68.9	92.35	960 – 1,180	17705	36803	#55 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts North Adams, MA Business Administration and Management, General is a commonly chosen area of study at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. The school is non selective and offers rolling admissions. Murdock the Mountain Lion cheers on the Trailblazers who play in Ice Hockey, Soccer, and Basketball, among others. First Year Retention Rate 69 % Acceptance Rate 92.4% SAT Score 960 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $17,705 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,803
56	Bridgewater State University	67.9	89.19	1,040 – 1,230	16230	46673	#56 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Bridgewater State University Bridgewater, MA Found in Bridgewater, Bridgewater State University accepts 89% of applicants. They request $50 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. About 63% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. They receive $4,204 on average. The first year retention rate is 67%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 68 % Acceptance Rate 89.2% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $16,230 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,673
57	University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth	63.6	90.64	1,070 – 1,280	20696	51475	#57 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth North Dartmouth, MA Found in North Dartmouth, the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth accepts 91% of applicants and charges $60 for undergraduate applications. About 92% of students at the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The school’s first year retention rate......Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 0.2% Acceptance Rate 90.6% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $20,696 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,475
58	Curry College	62.4	92.05	1,090 – 1,170	30367	46746	#58 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Curry College Milton, MA Located in Milton, Curry College accepts 92% of applicants and requires $50 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. Approximately 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % Acceptance Rate 92.1% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $30,367 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,746
59	American International College	62	96.9	930 – 1,110	21454	41451	#59 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts American International College Springfield, MA Located in Springfield, American International College’s acceptance rate is 97%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 98% of students attending American International College will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % Acceptance Rate 96.9% SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $21,454 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,451
60	Fisher College	55	70.75	820 – 1,100	27827	44366	#60 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Fisher College Boston, MA Based in Boston, Fisher College accepts 71% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 97% of students at Fisher College will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 55 % Acceptance Rate 70.8% SAT Score 820 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $27,827 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,366
61	Quincy College	53	87.66	--	10859	43642	#61 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Quincy College Quincy, MA Located in Quincy, Quincy College accepted 88% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 8% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 53 % Acceptance Rate 87.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $10,859 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,642
62	Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology	0	84.91	--	20419	50583	#62 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology Boston, MA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 84.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $20,419 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,583
63	Cambridge College	0	52.17	--	0	49215	#63 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Cambridge College Boston, MA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 52.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,215
64	Clark University	0	39.54	1,310 – 1,460	32767	49022	#64 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Clark University Worcester, MA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 39.5% SAT Score 1,310 – 1,460 Avg. Net Price $32,767 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,022
65	Hult International Business School	0	53.35	--	51986	53519	#65 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Hult International Business School Cambridge, MA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 53.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $51,986 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,519
66	Laboure College of Healthcare	0	40.54	--	0	59213	#66 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Laboure College of Healthcare Milton, MA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 40.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
67	MGH Institute of Health Professions	0	0	--	0	56898	#67 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts MGH Institute of Health Professions Boston, MA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $56,898
68	The New England Conservatory of Music	0	37.55	830 – 830	49544	18830	#68 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts The New England Conservatory of Music Boston, MA First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 37.6% SAT Score 830 – 830 Avg. Net Price $49,544 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $18,830