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	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	99	4.55	1,520 – 1,590	20996	131633	#1 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, Raytheon, and Hewlett-Packard. First Year Retention Rate 99 % Acceptance Rate 4.6% SAT Score 1,520 – 1,590 Avg. Net Price $20,996 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $131,633
2	Franklin W Olin College of Engineering	98	25.2	1,500 – 1,560	43184	105483	#2 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 98 % 1.0% Acceptance Rate 25.2% SAT Score 1,500 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $43,184 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $105,483
3	Harvard University	98	3.65	1,510 – 1,590	17525	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 $17,525 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $99,572
4	Amherst College	97	9.01	1,480 – 1,570	19049	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 All first-time degree/certificate-seeking undergraduates total. 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 % Acceptance Rate 9.0% SAT Score 1,480 – 1,570 Avg. Net Price $19,049 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $62,537
5	Northeastern University	97	5.22	1,450 – 1,540	34207	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 66% of students attending Northeastern University will receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 97%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 97 % 1.0% Acceptance Rate 5.2% SAT Score 1,450 – 1,540 Avg. Net Price $34,207 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $78,413
6	Williams College	97	8.25	1,500 – 1,560	15894	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 47% men and 50% 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 % Acceptance Rate 8.3% SAT Score 1,500 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $15,894 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $71,754
7	Boston College	96	16.43	1,450 – 1,540	32519	85717	#7 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 96 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 16.4% SAT Score 1,450 – 1,540 Avg. Net Price $32,519 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $85,717
8	Wellesley College	96	14.05	1,460 – 1,560	22174	65961	#8 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 96 % Acceptance Rate 14.1% SAT Score 1,460 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $22,174 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $65,961
9	Babson College	95	17.09	1,400 – 1,530	32019	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 $32,019 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,556
10	Boston University	95	11.11	1,430 – 1,530	24420	65655	#10 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 $24,420 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $65,655
11	College of the Holy Cross	95	17.61	1,260 – 1,420	36014	69984	#11 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 95% first year retention rate, and an impressive 89% four-year graduation rate. Athletes are known as the Crusaders and wear royal purple and white. First Year Retention Rate 95 % 2.2% Acceptance Rate 17.6% SAT Score 1,260 – 1,420 Avg. Net Price $36,014 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $69,984
12	Tufts University	95	11.49	1,470 – 1,560	32367	68337	#12 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 95 % 1.0% Acceptance Rate 11.5% SAT Score 1,470 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $32,367 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $68,337
13	Smith College	94	21	1,430 – 1,540	27305	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 8 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 $27,305 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,731
14	Worcester Polytechnic Institute	94	60.16	1,200 – 1,390	47372	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 100% 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 $47,372 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $85,038
15	Bentley University	93	45.05	1,290 – 1,430	45802	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, Marketing/Marketing Management, and General....Read more First Year Retention Rate 93 % Acceptance Rate 45.1% SAT Score 1,290 – 1,430 Avg. Net Price $45,802 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $86,679
16	University of Massachusetts-Amherst	92	59.73	1,320 – 1,500	22948	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. 83% graduate in six years. First Year Retention Rate 92 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 59.7% SAT Score 1,320 – 1,500 Avg. Net Price $22,948 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,347
17	Montserrat College of Art	91	85.02	810 – 1,230	34166	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 85% 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 55% four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 91 % 21.3% Acceptance Rate 85.0% SAT Score 810 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $34,166 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $24,780
18	Berklee College of Music	89	43.53	--	49797	26462	#18 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 71% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 89 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate 43.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $49,797 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $26,462
19	Massachusetts College of Art and Design	89	76.27	990 – 1,180	24864	27090	#19 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 65% 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 $24,864 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,090
20	Mount Holyoke College	89	36.03	1,390 – 1,540	32526	48590	#20 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 $32,526 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,590
21	The New England Conservatory of Music	88	41.1	830 – 830	50367	18830	#21 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts The New England Conservatory of Music Boston, MA Found in Boston, The New England Conservatory of Music accepts 41% of applicants and requests $125 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 97% of students attending The New England Conservatory of Music currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 88 % 6.4% Acceptance Rate 41.1% SAT Score 830 – 830 Avg. Net Price $50,367 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $18,830
22	Brandeis University	87	40.5	1,400 – 1,520	43550	52967	#22 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 $43,550 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,967
23	Emerson College	87	51.31	1,290 – 1,430	53432	42799	#23 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Emerson College Boston, MA Based in Boston, Emerson College accepts 51% of applicants and requests $65 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 76% of students attending Emerson College currently receive institutional grant aid. They receive $26,068 on average. The first year retention rate is 87%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 87 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 51.3% SAT Score 1,290 – 1,430 Avg. Net Price $53,432 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,799
24	Massachusetts Maritime Academy	87	94.7	1,040 – 1,200	13546	80424	#24 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 % 10.1% Acceptance Rate 94.7% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $13,546 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $80,424
25	Clark University	86	39.54	1,310 – 1,460	33865	49022	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Clark University Worcester, MA Found in Worcester, Clark University’s acceptance rate is 40%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 99% of students at Clark University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 86% of students decide to stay at Clark......Read more First Year Retention Rate 86 % 2.3% Acceptance Rate 39.5% SAT Score 1,310 – 1,460 Avg. Net Price $33,865 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,022
26	Simmons University	85	69.98	1,230 – 1,410	28691	61420	#26 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 9 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and 85% first year retention rate. 100% of students receive institutional grant aid. First Year Retention Rate 85 % 3.7% Acceptance Rate 70.0% SAT Score 1,230 – 1,410 Avg. Net Price $28,691 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $61,420
27	Assumption University	84	82.98	990 – 1,180	29748	46029	#27 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 84%. 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 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 83.0% SAT Score 990 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $29,748 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,029
28	Endicott College	84	71.21	1,200 – 1,350	41394	57286	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Endicott College Beverly, MA Located in Beverly, Endicott College accepts 71% of applicants. They charge $50 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 96% of students attending Endicott College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 4.5% Acceptance Rate 71.2% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $41,394 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $57,286
29	Gordon College	84	69.23	1,150 – 1,370	25299	45839	#29 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 32 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 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 69.2% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $25,299 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,839
30	Stonehill College	84	66.28	1,050 – 1,250	33385	63285	#30 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Stonehill College Easton, MA Located in Easton, Stonehill College accepted 66% 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 84 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 66.3% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $33,385 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,285
31	University of Massachusetts-Lowell	84	83.04	1,190 – 1,380	16530	61467	#31 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 79% 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 $16,530 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $61,467
32	Wentworth Institute of Technology	84	91.21	1,130 – 1,330	35604	71868	#32 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 $35,604 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $71,868
33	Wheaton College (Massachusetts)	82	67.73	1,240 – 1,400	30701	51607	#33 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 82 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate 67.7% SAT Score 1,240 – 1,400 Avg. Net Price $30,701 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,607
34	Springfield College	81	71.89	1,150 – 1,340	30039	43692	#34 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 1,150 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $30,039 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,692
35	Hult International Business School	80	60.48	--	53700	63721	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Hult International Business School Cambridge, MA Based in Cambridge, Hult International Business School’s acceptance rate is 60% and requests $95 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 82% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 9.6% Acceptance Rate 60.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $53,700 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,721
36	Emmanuel College	79	75.65	1,170 – 1,340	31121	50180	#36 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 $31,121 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,180
37	Merrimack College	79	70.02	1,050 – 1,180	38504	54316	#37 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Merrimack College North Andover, MA Found in North Andover, Merrimack College accepted 70% 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 79 % 6.0% Acceptance Rate 70.0% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $38,504 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,316
38	Regis College	79	69.78	860 – 1,070	28575	56223	#38 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 37 available programs and majors. There are currently more graduates than undergraduates attending. First Year Retention Rate 79 % 2.5% Acceptance Rate 69.8% SAT Score 860 – 1,070 Avg. Net Price $28,575 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $56,223
39	Hampshire College	78	75.28	1,160 – 1,350	27895	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 $46,145 each. Alumni include Jon Krakauer, Ken Burns, and Lupita Nyong’o. First Year Retention Rate 78 % 4.0% Acceptance Rate 75.3% SAT Score 1,160 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $27,895 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $22,195
40	Worcester State University	78	87.99	1,030 – 1,290	12778	50233	#40 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 54% 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 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 88.0% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $12,778 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,233
41	Bard College at Simon's Rock	77	95.89	1,170 – 1,400	41013	31072	#41 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 96% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 97% 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 95.9% SAT Score 1,170 – 1,400 Avg. Net Price $41,013 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $31,072
42	College of Our Lady of the Elms	76	85.26	1,150 – 1,320	19870	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 85.3% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $19,870 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,087
43	Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts	76	89.74	960 – 1,180	16544	36803	#43 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 76 % 10.1% Acceptance Rate 89.7% SAT Score 960 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $16,544 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,803
44	Bridgewater State University	75	87.81	1,080 – 1,280	15646	46673	#44 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Bridgewater State University Bridgewater, MA Found in Bridgewater, Bridgewater State University accepts 88% of applicants. They request $50 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. About 70% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. They receive $4,872 on average. The first year retention rate is 75%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % 2.6% Acceptance Rate 87.8% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $15,646 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,673
45	Salem State University	75	95.88	990 – 1,160	17541	48209	#45 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 75 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 95.9% SAT Score 990 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $17,541 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,209
46	Suffolk University	75	82.33	1,110 – 1,310	33832	55856	#46 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 46% of students will earn their degree in four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 82.3% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $33,832 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,856
47	MCPHS University	74	85.21	1,170 – 1,410	41506	77171	#47 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 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At MCPHS University, there is a 74% first year retention rate and a 50% four year graduation rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 5.1% Acceptance Rate 85.2% SAT Score 1,170 – 1,410 Avg. Net Price $41,506 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $77,171
48	Western New England University	74	83.48	1,090 – 1,310	27056	51771	#48 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 97% of students attending Western New England University will receive institutional grant aid. They receive $30,597 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 $27,056 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,771
49	Westfield State University	74	81.41	980 – 1,190	17406	46861	#49 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Westfield State University Westfield, MA Found in Westfield, Westfield State University accepts 81% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 80% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention rate is 74% and around 52% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 4.2% Acceptance Rate 81.4% SAT Score 980 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $17,406 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,861
50	Bay Path University	73	85.2	1,010 – 1,210	15463	51548	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Bay Path University Longmeadow, MA Found in Longmeadow, Bay Path University accepts 85% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. About 92% of students attending Bay Path University will receive grant aid from the school. On average, these students are given $23,658 each. The first year retention rate is 73%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 5.8% Acceptance Rate 85.2% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $15,463 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,548
51	Lesley University	72	96.87	1,010 – 1,220	32587	40150	#51 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 72 % 6.5% Acceptance Rate 96.9% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $32,587 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,150
52	Nichols College	72	80.84	1,030 – 1,240	32337	47830	#52 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 Conference of New England....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 80.8% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $32,337 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,830
53	Framingham State University	71	83.61	1,100 – 1,280	16114	46611	#53 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 84%. They request $50 for undergraduate applications. About 71% of students attending Framingham State University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 83.6% SAT Score 1,100 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $16,114 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,611
54	Lasell University	70	81.22	1,030 – 1,160	27773	45468	#54 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.” 96% receive grant aid, averaging $14,638 each, and students can earn up to a Master's degree. First Year Retention Rate 70 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 81.2% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $27,773 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,468
55	University of Massachusetts-Boston	70	83.78	1,080 – 1,300	17768	53521	#55 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 84% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $60 for undergraduate applications. About 87% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 4.1% Acceptance Rate 83.8% SAT Score 1,080 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $17,768 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,521
56	Fitchburg State University	69	86.93	1,060 – 1,230	15340	41999	#56 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 unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 89% of students attending Fitchburg State University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The......Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 5.5% Acceptance Rate 86.9% SAT Score 1,060 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $15,340 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,999
57	Dean College	68	73.71	920 – 1,110	32085	30046	#57 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 68% first year retention rate and around 34% of students will earn their degree within four years....Read more First Year Retention Rate 68 % 10.5% Acceptance Rate 73.7% SAT Score 920 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $32,085 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,046
58	Curry College	66	87.65	1,050 – 1,230	29917	46746	#58 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Curry College Milton, MA Located in Milton, Curry College accepts 88% 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 66 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 87.7% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $29,917 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,746
59	University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth	64	90.64	1,070 – 1,280	21094	51475	#59 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 94% 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 % Acceptance Rate 90.6% SAT Score 1,070 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $21,094 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,475
60	Anna Maria College	60	50.3	780 – 990	29094	63110	#60 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Massachusetts Anna Maria College Paxton, MA Found in Paxton, Anna Maria College accepted 50% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to pay $25 to apply. Approximately 100% 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 60 % 3.2% Acceptance Rate 50.3% SAT Score 780 – 990 Avg. Net Price $29,094 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,110
61	American International College	57	99.57	940 – 1,110	23086	41451	#61 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 100%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 100% of students attending American International College will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 57 % 16.2% Acceptance Rate 99.6% SAT Score 940 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $23,086 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,451
62	Fisher College	55	70.68	820 – 1,100	28596	44366	#62 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 $50 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 94% of students at Fisher College will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 55 % 1.9% Acceptance Rate 70.7% SAT Score 820 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $28,596 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,366