Universities in Boston

Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States with vibes mixing old-world style with buzzing, high-tech culture.  

With over 44 institutions, Boston is rightfully recognised as the top university town in the USA with a rich intellectual history. Students travel to Boston from all over the world to live, study and level up their education. Boston is also considered a top academic destination in the USA, not only because of the number of institutions it hosts but also due to their high rankings across universities worldwide. 

Boston has some of the top universities worldwide, so here are the top 3 universities in Boston according to QS Rankings 2025:  

Massachusetts Institute of Technology 

• Average annual fees: $61,990. 

• Best programs: The top 3 programs at MIT are Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics. 

• Requirements for undergraduates: Aim for the 75th percentile, which is achieved with a 1570 SAT or a 36 ACT, for the best chance of getting in. Additionally, your GPA should be 4.19 or above. If your GPA is below this, you will need to make up for it with a higher SAT/ACT score. 

• Requirements for postgraduates:  
  - 4 or 3 year bachelor's degree (US equivalent) 
  - GPA required: 3.5 (90%) 
  - Video Statement. 
  - English language proficiency: TOEFL-IBT: 90-100. IELTS: 7.0. 
  - GRE score of 155-170 [Verbal] and 154-170 [Quant] 

Harvard University   

• Average annual fees: From $86,366 to $91,166. 

• Best programs: The top 3 programs in Harvard University are Social Sciences, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, and Mathematics and Statistics. 

• Requirements for undergraduates:  
  - Common Application or apply Coalition, Powered by Scoir. 
  - Harvard College Questions for the Common Application, or Coalition Application Harvard supplement. 
  - $85 fee (or request a fee waiver) 
  - SAT or ACT (with or without writing) 
  - Optional: AP or other examination results. 

• Requirements for postgraduates: A minimum GPA of 3.73 on a 4.0 scale (97-100%). 

Boston University   

• Average annual fees: $66,670. 

• Best programs: The top 3 programs in Boston University are Social Sciences; Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services; and Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs. 

• Requirements for undergraduates: A SAT score between 1400 and 1520 or an ACT score of 32 and 34. 

• Requirements for postgraduates:  
  - $95 application fee 
  - Transcripts 
  - Official letters of recommendation 
  - Official GRE General scores (if applicable) 
  -Personal Statement 
  - Writing Sample 
  - Resume or CV (highly recommended, not required) 
  - Proof of English proficiency. Click here for more information 

If you wish to study in some of the best universities in Boston but you’re on a budget, here are the top cheapest universities in Boston for international students: 

Boston is a lively and diverse city with a unique culture and nightlife. You'll get a great chance to see one of the oldest cities in the country and gain a firsthand understanding of American history if you live in Boston. 

It's also home to globally prestigious universities such as Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This makes Boston one of the best states for international students in the USA. 

• How many universities are in Boston? 
  Boston has more than 44 institutions and includes prestigious institutions like Harvard, MIT, Boston College, and Boston University.  

• Is Boston a good place for international students? 
  Boston is a city where students from across the world come to live, learn and grow as well as delve into cultural diversity while enjoying a good quality education. The city has a large number of prestigious universities and it’s also the ideal city for international students and those looking to explore more of the US. 

Don’t hesitate to reach out to IDP’s certified counsellors to help you get into your dream university in Boston and choose the best programs and courses that matches your goals.