AdmissionsOS Merrimack College vs Worcester Polytechnic Institute
| Merrimack College | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 70% | 60% |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $37,927 | $43,071 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $70,038 | $78,679 |
| Graduation rate | 70% | 90% |
| Retention rate | 79% | 94% |
| Undergraduates | 3,916 | 5,447 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13:1 | 13:1 |
| Setting | North Andover, MA | Worcester, MA |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Application fee | None | $70 |
| Test policy | Test-blind | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Merrimack College or Worcester Polytechnic Institute harder to get into?
Worcester Polytechnic Institute is more selective, with a 60% acceptance rate versus 70% at Merrimack College. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Merrimack College or Worcester Polytechnic Institute?
Merrimack College has the lower average net price ($37,927 versus $43,071). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.