15 Cheapest Universities in Massachusetts for International Students

Search Courses:

In Massachusetts, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in United States without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Massachusetts, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 65 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Massachusetts, make sure to read more!

Apply for 2026 Intake!

Applications for 2026 Intake are open. Search through the degrees around the world!

Apply Now

Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Massachusetts ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Massachusetts Maritime Academy 14,900 USD 70%
Fitchburg State University 18,000 USD 64%
Framingham State University 18,400 USD 63%
Bridgewater State University 18,400 USD 63%
Worcester State University 18,500 USD 63%
Salem State University 20,200 USD 59%
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts 22,100 USD 55%
Lasell University 28,400 USD 42%
Massachusetts College of Art and Design 29,900 USD 39%
Boston Architectural College 30,300 USD 38%
Gordon College 33,000 USD 33%
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth 33,800 USD 31%
Lesley University 34,900 USD 29%
University of Massachusetts Lowell 36,700 USD 25%
University of Massachusetts Boston 38,700 USD 21%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 48,600 USD for universities in Massachusetts.

Search Bachelor's Courses for International Students!

Search through the bachelor's courses that are currently open for international students!

Apply Now

1. Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Massachusetts Maritime Academy is a specialized public institution on the Northern side of the US. It was first established to produce American civilian mariners, although its goals and programs have expanded since then. Despite such development, though, the training and programs (undergrad and grad) at MMA are still focused on the maritime field.

MMA is ranked 501st in the US by Times Higher Education. It is ranked 5th among Northern Regional Colleges by US News.

2. Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg State University is a public university in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in 25 academic fields. Students at Fitchburg State benefit from small class sizes and hands-on learning opportunities.

3. Framingham State University

Framingham State University aims to expand students’ perspectives of themselves and the community. It encourages students to engage in numerous organizations and companies to widen their experience and to allow them to explore all their career options. The university has been successful in its goal of strengthening its internationalization through research.

4. Bridgewater State University

With more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, Bridgewater State University is divided into 6 colleges and 10 research centers and institutes. Its main campus is located in Bridgewater, but the university also has other three campuses throughout the state of Massachusetts. It offers degrees in various areas of study, but it’s mainly famous for its programs in education, which are among the best ones in the US. Regarding recreation and student life, Bridgewater State University has over 20 sports teams and around 140 student organizations, which include fraternities and sororities, a radio station, and cultural groups.

5. Worcester State University

As it strives to be a center for innovation, Worcester State University offers students academic programs that mold them to be future leaders of the community. Worcester is also known for its competitive curriculums that sharpen students’ skills. A dynamic and vibrant community is also present within the campus through various organizations, activities, and facilities.

6. Salem State University

Salem State University is one of Massachusetts’ biggest public institutions that provides comprehensive educational programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. It offers various academic disciplines in business, arts and sciences, healthcare, law, and education. The university aims to prepare students for their future careers by providing good quality education and necessary training to develop their talents and reach their full potential. The faculty wholly supports and encourages its students to achieve their personal and academic goals.

7. Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts primarily offers undergrad programs. However, it also has a minimal number of grad programs, some of which are provided in online mode only. MCLA is a member of the state’s university system. It is ranked 601 among US colleges by Times Higher Education.

8. Lasell University

Lasell University is a private university located in Newton, Massachusetts. Edward Lasell established the Auburndale Female Seminary in 1851. In honor of the founder, the name was later changed to Lasell University. Undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in education, communication, sports, management, criminal justice, and marketing are available at the university.

9. Massachusetts College of Art and Design

The Massachusetts College of Art and Design is the sole educational institution for art to receive public funding in the entire United States. With a rich history of advocating for the recognition of art education in the country, it actively holds and participates in programs broadening the accessibility of art. The Massachusetts College of Art and Design presents degree offerings for undergraduates, graduates, and professionals to cultivate a passion for art that serves the people.

10. Boston Architectural College

Boston Architectural College is a private college located in Boston, Massachusetts. They provide undergraduate and graduate programs in interior architecture, landscape architecture, and design studies. In addition, the college hosts exhibits of alumni artwork and spatial design.

11. Gordon College

Gordon College is a Christian institution that’s perfect for prospective students that want to continue practicing their faith while getting a quality education. It offers about 35 undergraduate programs and around 10 graduate programs. Master’s degree programs are available for studying on-campus, online, or in a hybrid modality. Gordon College also has many extracurricular activities that include sports, volunteering, student organizations’ activities, Chapel service, and worship groups.

12. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is one of the five campuses that make up the University of Massachusetts system. The university is widely recognized for its world-class education and impactful research in different areas of study. It has also conducted several strategic collaborations with other universities, business institutions, and non-profit organizations. 

13. Lesley University

Lesley University was originally founded by Edith Lesley to serve as a training institution for teachers in 1909 with its first class session held at her own home. The school was quickly recognized and expanded to have its own classroom, buildings, and even a dormitory space. The academic scope of the college was further broadened when the college started to offer graduate studies in 1950 which became the catalyst for the establishment of other programs together with the renaming of the college to Lesley University.

14. University of Massachusetts Lowell

One of the University of Massachusetts members is the University of Massachusetts Lowell, which is among the largest schools in the state. This research-intensive institution welcomes more than 18,000 students into its five colleges annually. These students choose from around 200 degree-granting programs and certificate courses. UML is a well-ranked university, placing 191st among US institutions in the QS rankings.

15. University of Massachusetts Boston

The University of Massachusetts Boston is one of the five campuses that make up the University of Massachusetts system. It offers a supportive and diverse environment with smaller classes to encourage close interaction between faculty and students. It is also one of the leading universities in the US for research. 

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Massachusetts ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Worcester State University 2,268 USD - 3,402 USD 90%
Fitchburg State University 4,164 USD - 6,246 USD 81%
Merrimack College 5,856 USD - 13,100 USD 73%
Bridgewater State University 6,426 USD - 9,639 USD 71%
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts 6,732 USD - 8,397 USD 69%
Bay Path University 6,780 USD - 16,900 USD 69%
Endicott College 7,152 USD - 20,400 USD 67%
Anna Maria College 7,188 USD - 10,800 USD 67%
Elms College 7,680 USD - 21,100 USD 65%
Gordon College 7,800 USD - 11,700 USD 64%
Assumption University 8,160 USD - 15,300 USD 63%
Lasell University 8,508 USD - 14,400 USD 61%
Emmanuel College 8,800 USD - 13,200 USD 60%
Framingham State University 8,850 USD 59%
Northeastern University 9,060 USD - 37,100 USD 58%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 21,600 USD for universities in Massachusetts.

Search Master's Courses for International Students!

Search through the master's courses that are currently open for international students!

Apply Now

1. Worcester State University

As it strives to be a center for innovation, Worcester State University offers students academic programs that mold them to be future leaders of the community. Worcester is also known for its competitive curriculums that sharpen students’ skills. A dynamic and vibrant community is also present within the campus through various organizations, activities, and facilities.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Worcester State University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 2,268 USD to 3,402 USD annually for their master's degree.

2. Fitchburg State University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Fitchburg State University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Fitchburg State University is 4,164 USD to 6,246 USD.

Fitchburg State University is a public university in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in 25 academic fields. Students at Fitchburg State benefit from small class sizes and hands-on learning opportunities.

3. Merrimack College

Merrimack College is a private educational institution affiliated with the Order of St. Augustine. It offers over 100 academic programs in different areas of business, engineering, health, sciences, liberal arts, and education, all designed to prepare students to have successful careers. It is also among the top-ranked colleges in the northeast region.

The tuition fee at Merrimack College for incoming international master’s students is 5,856 USD to 13,050 USD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Bridgewater State University

Another affordable university to consider in Massachusetts is Bridgewater State University.

With more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, Bridgewater State University is divided into 6 colleges and 10 research centers and institutes. Its main campus is located in Bridgewater, but the university also has other three campuses throughout the state of Massachusetts. It offers degrees in various areas of study, but it’s mainly famous for its programs in education, which are among the best ones in the US. Regarding recreation and student life, Bridgewater State University has over 20 sports teams and around 140 student organizations, which include fraternities and sororities, a radio station, and cultural groups.

The tuition fee in Bridgewater State University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 6,426 USD.

5. Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 6,732 USD yearly.

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts primarily offers undergrad programs. However, it also has a minimal number of grad programs, some of which are provided in online mode only. MCLA is a member of the state’s university system. It is ranked 601 among US colleges by Times Higher Education.

6. Bay Path University

Bay Path University offers many world-class undergraduate and graduate programs for its students. But, they especially take pride in being able to relate classroom learnings to real-world experiences, producing future leaders along the way. Bay Path is also committed to providing its students with the necessary facilities and extracurricular activities that will enhance their personal development and life on campus.

7. Endicott College

Endicott College is a private institution that offers more than 30 bachelor’s degree programs and about 40 master’s degree programs in its 7 schools. Its main campus is located in Beverly, but the college also has buildings in Boston, along with an online campus and an international campus that offer degrees specially designed for international students. Education here focuses on obtaining real-life experience, so in order to obtain their degree, all undergraduate students must complete three internships. The university has different options, which include one-semester and four-year internship programs.

8. Anna Maria College

Anna Maria College merges a liberal arts education with a practical academic curriculum. The institution suggests a variety of undergraduate majors, as skillfully as many graduate and certificate programs, both on-ground and online. Its small student-faculty proportion allows for a favorably personalized learning experience, while the mediocre class and campus size foster optimal student involvement, cooperation, and fellowships.

9. Elms College

Elms College is a private Catholic institution in Massachusetts. It was founded in 1928 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield as a girls’ preparatory school. Today, the college offers undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Its campus is equipped with modern facilities including libraries, bookstores, and student housing.

10. Gordon College

Gordon College is a Christian institution that’s perfect for prospective students that want to continue practicing their faith while getting a quality education. It offers about 35 undergraduate programs and around 10 graduate programs. Master’s degree programs are available for studying on-campus, online, or in a hybrid modality. Gordon College also has many extracurricular activities that include sports, volunteering, student organizations’ activities, Chapel service, and worship groups.

11. Assumption University

Assumption University is affiliated with the Assumptionists, making it a Catholic institution. Both undergrad and grad programs are available at the university, including certificate and online courses. Besides its Massachusetts location, Assumption University has a second and international campus in Rome.

12. Lasell University

Lasell University is a private university located in Newton, Massachusetts. Edward Lasell established the Auburndale Female Seminary in 1851. In honor of the founder, the name was later changed to Lasell University. Undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in education, communication, sports, management, criminal justice, and marketing are available at the university.

13. Emmanuel College

Emmanuel College in Boston is a Catholic institution that has been in the education industry since 1919. Students are presented with countless opportunities to meet their desired academic expectations. The college excels in all educational aspects, with most graduates have found success in their chosen career paths. Today, it continues to improve its education system as it thrives on being among the top private institutions in the US.

14. Framingham State University

Framingham State University aims to expand students’ perspectives of themselves and the community. It encourages students to engage in numerous organizations and companies to widen their experience and to allow them to explore all their career options. The university has been successful in its goal of strengthening its internationalization through research.

15. Northeastern University

Northeastern University is a perfect place for you to experience one-of-a-kind educational training. Its connections enable students to participate in various collaborative activities and solve challenges in the actual industry. The university’s goal is to provide an environment where students will get to seize opportunities and gain the necessary skills for their future careers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Massachusetts?

Applying to cheap universities in Massachusetts requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in United States for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Massachusetts?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Massachusetts. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Massachusetts is the Boston Architectural College, which offers Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Landscape Architecture to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Anna Maria College offers Counseling Psychology, Pastoral Ministry, and Industrial Organizational Psychology.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Massachusetts, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Massachusetts as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Massachusetts for international students was helpful!