Best Universities in Massachusetts for International Students [2025 Guide]
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Thinking about studying in the USA? You can’t go wrong with Massachusetts! This iconic state is packed with some of the best universities in the world. From globally recognized Ivy League schools like Harvard University to innovative hubs like Northeastern University and UMass Amherst, Massachusetts offers international students a powerful mix of academic prestige, cultural diversity, and real-world career opportunities.
Whether you’re into business, science, engineering, international relations, or public health, Massachusetts has something for everyone. Let’s explore the top universities in Massachusetts for international students in 2025—including rankings, tuition fees, and what makes each school unique.
Top Universities in Massachusetts
Harvard University
Harvard University, founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States and a dream destination for students from every corner of the globe. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, Harvard is ranked 3rd globally and also holds the 3rd spot in the U.S. The university has over 100 academic departments and 13 professional schools, including the Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, and the Harvard Kennedy School. Harvard’s extensive alumni network includes eight U.S. presidents, over 150 Nobel Laureates, and countless global leaders in science, business, politics, and the arts. Below are the key details of Harvard University:
| Feature | Details |
| QS World Rank (2025) | 3rd |
| U.S. Rank (2025) | 3rd |
| Location | Cambridge, Massachusetts |
| Founded | 1636 |
| Total Enrollment | ~21,800+ students |
| International Students | ~6,000+ from 150+ countries |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 7:1 |
| Top Programs | Law, Business, Medicine, Public Policy, Economics, Data Science |
| Acceptance Rate | ~3.4% (for undergraduates) |
| Average Tuition | $55,000–$65,000/year (before financial aid) |
Boston University
Boston University (BU) is a private research university located in Boston—a city ranked among the best student cities in the world. The university is currently ranked 89th in the world and 29th in the U.S. according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. BU has a thriving international community with over 10,000 international students from more than 140 countries, making up nearly a quarter of its student body.
The university offers 300+ programs of study across its 17 schools and colleges, with particularly strong offerings in business, communication, computer science, international relations, and public health. BU is also home to the Boston University Global Programs Office and is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU). Below are the key details of Boston University:
| Feature | Details |
| QS World Rank (2025) | 89th |
| U.S. Rank (2025) | 29th |
| Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Total Enrollment | ~36,700+ students |
| International Students | 10,000+ from 140+ countries |
| Top Programs | Business, Computer Science, Law, Public Health, Communication |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 10:1 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~14% |
| Average Tuition | ~$61,050/year (before scholarships and aid) |
Tufts University
Tufts University is a mid-sized private research university located in Medford and Somerville, just a short ride from downtown Boston. Ranked 238th in the world according to the QS World University Rankings 2025, Tufts is particularly known for programs in international relations, global health, biology, and biomedical engineering.
Its Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy is the oldest U.S. graduate school focused solely on international affairs—is world-renowned and attracts students from over 70 countries annually. Tufts’ vibrant and inclusive campus supports over 11,500 students, of which approximately 3,000 are international students from more than 90 countries. Below are the key details of Tufts University:
| Feature | Details |
| QS World Rank (2025) | 238th |
| Location | Medford/Somerville, Massachusetts |
| Founded | 1852 |
| Total Enrollment | ~11,500+ students |
| International Students | ~3,000+ from 90+ countries |
| Top Programs | International Relations, Biology, Public Health, Biomedical Sciences |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 9:1 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~9.5% |
| Average Tuition | ~$66,000/year (before scholarships) |
University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst)
UMass Amherst, the flagship of the University of Massachusetts system, is one of the top public research universities in the U.S. Located in Amherst, UMass Amherst is ranked 251st globally. It’s particularly strong in engineering, business, data science, computer science, and sustainability studies. The university serves over 30,000 students, including around 4,000 international students from more than 100 countries.
Its Isenberg School of Management is nationally ranked, and the College of Engineering consistently earns high marks for research and career outcomes. As a public university, UMass Amherst offers lower tuition for Massachusetts residents and competitive out-of-state rates for international students. Below are the key details of UMass Amherst:
| Feature | Details |
| QS World Rank (2025) | 251st |
| Location | Amherst, Massachusetts |
| Founded | 1863 |
| Total Enrollment | ~30,600+ students |
| International Students | ~4,000+ from 100+ countries |
| Top Programs | Engineering, Business, Data Science, Environmental Science, AI |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 17:1 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~66% |
| Average Tuition | ~$38,000/year (out-of-state; varies by program) |
Northeastern University
Northeastern University, located in Boston, stands out for its signature cooperative education (co-op) program, which allows students to do both academic study with full-time professional work experience. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, Northeastern is ranked joint 361st, reflecting its growing global reputation. The university enrolls around 45,000+ students in total, including over 13,000 international students from 140+ countries, making it one of the most globally diverse institutions in the U.S.
Northeastern also offers over 280 majors, dual degrees, and access to more than 3,000 global employers. It has campuses in Silicon Valley, Toronto, Vancouver, London, and Oakland, allowing students to expand their education beyond Boston. Below are the key details of Northeastern University:
| Feature | Details |
| QS World Rank (2025) | 361st (tie) |
| Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Founded | 1898 |
| Total Enrollment | ~45,000+ (undergraduate and graduate combined) |
| International Students | 13,000+ from 140+ countries |
| Top Programs | Computer Science, Business Analytics, Engineering, Cybersecurity |
| Co-op Partners | 3,000+ employers globally |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 14:1 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~18% |
| Average Tuition | ~$60,192/year |
Brandeis University
Located in Waltham, a short drive from downtown Boston, Brandeis University is a private liberal arts and research university. Ranked in the 401–410 band globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, Brandeis is a younger institution—founded in 1948. The university enrolls about 5,700 students, including approximately 1,700 international students from over 100 countries.
Brandeis offers small class sizes (average class size is 20) and a student-faculty ratio of 10:1, ensuring personalized attention and mentoring. It is also home to top-ranked research centers like the Heller School for Social Policy and Management and the Rosenstiel Basic Medical Sciences Research Center. Below are the key details of Brandeis University:
| Feature | Details |
| QS World Rank (2025) | 401–410 |
| Location | Waltham, Massachusetts |
| Founded | 1948 |
| Total Enrollment | ~5,700+ |
| International Students | ~1,700+ from 100+ countries |
| Top Programs | Economics, Psychology, Public Policy, Biochemistry |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 10:1 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~39% |
| Average Tuition | ~$63,300/year |
Conclusion
Choosing the right university is a big decision—but if you’re looking for world-class education, global networks, and exciting career opportunities, Massachusetts is one of the best places to be. With prestigious schools like Harvard, BU, Tufts, and Northeastern, and welcoming campuses at UMass Amherst, Brandeis, and Clark, this state offers international students everything they need to succeed—academically, professionally, and personally. So, start shortlisting your dream schools, prepare your applications, and take that exciting step toward studying in one of the most dynamic and student-friendly destinations in the USA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best universities in Massachusetts for international students in 2025?
Some of the best universities in Massachusetts for international students include Harvard University, Boston University, Tufts University, Northeastern University, UMass Amherst, and Brandeis University. These schools are known for their academic excellence, global diversity, and strong support for international students.
Is Massachusetts a good place to study for international students?
Absolutely! Massachusetts is home to some of the top-ranked universities in the world, including Harvard and MIT (not listed here), and offers a vibrant student lifestyle, cutting-edge research, and a diverse international community. Boston, in particular, is considered one of the best student cities globally.
What is the average tuition fee for international students in Massachusetts?
Tuition fees in Massachusetts vary by university and program, but here’s a quick look:
1. Harvard University: ~$55,000–$65,000/year
2. Boston University: ~$61,050/year
3. Tufts University: ~$66,000/year
4. UMass Amherst: ~$38,000/year (out-of-state rate)
5. Northeastern University: ~$60,192/year
6. Brandeis University: ~$63,300/year
Are scholarships available for international students in Massachusetts universities?
Yes! Most universities in Massachusetts offer need-based or merit-based scholarships for international students. For example, Harvard offers need-blind admissions, and BU, Tufts, and UMass Amherst have generous financial aid and scholarship programs.
What are the most popular programs for international students in Massachusetts?
Some of the most popular courses in Massachusetts include:
1. Business and Management
2. Computer Science and Data Analytics
3. Engineering and AI
4. Law and Public Policy
5. Public Health and Medicine
6. International Relations
How hard is it to get into Harvard University as an international student?
Harvard is extremely selective, with an undergraduate acceptance rate of around 3.4%. You’ll need outstanding academic scores, extracurricular achievements, leadership experience, and a compelling application to stand out.
