AdmissionsOS University of Massachusetts-Amherst vs Worcester Polytechnic Institute
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 60% | 60% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,310-1,500 | n/a |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 30-33 | n/a |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $22,383 | $43,071 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $34,549 | $78,679 |
| Graduation rate | 83% | 90% |
| Retention rate | 92% | 94% |
| Undergraduates | 23,671 | 5,447 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 17:1 | 13:1 |
| Setting | Amherst, MA | Worcester, MA |
| Type | Public | Private nonprofit |
| Application fee | $90 | $70 |
| Test policy | Test-optional | 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 University of Massachusetts-Amherst or Worcester Polytechnic Institute harder to get into?
University of Massachusetts-Amherst is more selective, with a 60% acceptance rate versus 60% at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, University of Massachusetts-Amherst or Worcester Polytechnic Institute?
University of Massachusetts-Amherst has the lower average net price ($22,383 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.