US University · Ranked #51
University of Massachusetts Amherst: Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
University of Massachusetts Amherst is a moderately selective university in Amherst, Massachusetts, admitting around 57% of those who apply. Ranked #51 nationally in our dataset, it rewards students who meet its academic benchmarks and submit a complete, on-time application — the bar is attainable for solid candidates and the process is more forgiving than at the most selective schools.
UMass Amherst is the flagship of the Massachusetts state system, known for its top-ranked computer science program, strong engineering, and Five College Consortium access.
This guide breaks down University of Massachusetts Amherst's selectivity, the academic profile of admitted students, how its application deadlines should shape your strategy, and the programs it is best known for — followed by answers to the questions applicants ask most.
University of Massachusetts Amherst admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 57%
- SAT range
- 1190–1390
- Average GPA
- 3.65
- In-state
- $16,952
- Out-of-state
- $38,700
- Enrollment
- 24,391
- Type
- Public
- Location
- Amherst, Massachusetts
How hard is it to get into University of Massachusetts Amherst?
With 57% of applicants admitted, University of Massachusetts Amherst is moderately selective. The school admits the majority of students who meet its academic benchmarks, so the most common reasons for denial are an incomplete application, missing the deadline, or numbers that fall below the published ranges. Hitting the academic targets and applying on time is most of the battle.
For students who meet the numbers, University of Massachusetts Amherst is a target-to-likely school. Double-check that every required component is submitted before the deadline — completeness matters more than polish at this level.
Academic profile of admitted students
Admitted students at University of Massachusetts Amherst typically score between 1190 and 1390 on the SAT — this is the middle 50% range, so a quarter of enrolled students scored below 1190 and a quarter above 1390. A score at or above 1390 is competitive even at the more selective end of the pool. Alongside test scores, the average GPA of admitted students is approximately 3.65 on a 4.0 scale, indicating that successful applicants generally earned mostly A's in a rigorous course load.
As a planning benchmark, aim for an SAT around 1290 or higher and a GPA at or near 3.65. Scores meaningfully below the 25th percentile (1190) are not disqualifying on their own, but they put more weight on the rest of the application to compensate.
University of Massachusetts Amherstapplication deadlines & strategy
- • Early Action: Nov 5
- • Regular Decision: Jan 15
University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a non-binding Early Action deadline of Nov 5, with Regular Decision closing Jan 15. Early Action lets you submit early and receive a decision sooner without any obligation to enroll, so there is little downside to applying EA if your application is genuinely ready by Nov 5 — a rushed early application is worse than a strong regular one.
Whichever round you choose, give recommenders at least three to four weeks of notice and budget time for essay revisions — the strongest applications are rarely written in the final week before Jan 15.
Notable programs at University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Computer Science — a perennial high-demand field with competitive secondary admission at many schools.
- Engineering — typically a more selective track with specific math and science prerequisites.
- Business — often admitted directly into a named school with its own requirements.
- Linguistics — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
- Polymer Science — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
University of Massachusetts Amherst is particularly known for Computer Science, Engineering, Business, Linguistics, and Polymer Science.
Strong programs matter for admissions because many schools admit by college or major, and a credible, specific interest in one of these areas — reflected in your coursework, activities, and essays — is far more persuasive than a generic application.
Cost of attending University of Massachusetts Amherst
As a public institution with separate in-state and out-of-state tuition, University of Massachusetts Amherst costs significantly less for Massachusetts residents: in-state tuition is about $16,952 per year versus roughly $38,700 for out-of-state students — a difference of around $21,748 annually. If you are not a Massachusetts resident, factor the higher rate into your list, and check whether the school offers merit scholarships or regional exchange programs that narrow the gap.
Tuition is only part of the cost — add room, board, fees, and personal expenses for a realistic total — but the in-state advantage makes University of Massachusetts Amherst an especially strong value for state residents.
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University of Massachusetts Amherst: frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at University of Massachusetts Amherst?
- University of Massachusetts Amherst has an acceptance rate of 57%, which makes it moderately selective. For students who meet the numbers, University of Massachusetts Amherst is a target-to-likely school. Double-check that every required component is submitted before the deadline — completeness matters more than polish at this level.
- What SAT score do you need for University of Massachusetts Amherst?
- Admitted students at University of Massachusetts Amherst typically score between 1190 and 1390 on the SAT (the middle 50%). Aiming for 1390 or above makes you competitive, while a score below 1190 puts more weight on the rest of your application.
- What GPA do you need to get into University of Massachusetts Amherst?
- The average GPA of admitted students at University of Massachusetts Amherst is approximately 3.65 on a 4.0 scale. Competitive applicants generally have mostly A's in a rigorous course load; a GPA at or near 3.65 is the practical target.
- What is the application deadline for University of Massachusetts Amherst?
- University of Massachusetts Amherst's application deadlines: Early Action is Nov 5 (non-binding); Regular Decision is Jan 15. Submit a few days early to avoid last-minute portal problems.
- Is University of Massachusetts Amherst a public or private university?
- University of Massachusetts Amherst is a public university. In-state students from Massachusetts pay significantly less than out-of-state students.
- How much does it cost to attend University of Massachusetts Amherst?
- As a public institution with separate in-state and out-of-state tuition, University of Massachusetts Amherst costs significantly less for Massachusetts residents: in-state tuition is about $16,952 per year versus roughly $38,700 for out-of-state students — a difference of around $21,748 annually. If you are not a Massachusetts resident, factor the higher rate into your list, and check whether the school offers merit scholarships or regional exchange programs that narrow the gap.