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Berklee College of Music and Bentley University are both private nonprofit institutions — Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and Bentley University in Waltham, MA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Boston, MA · Private
Acceptance rate: 43.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,468
Tuition: $52,040/year
Student-faculty ratio: 9.0:1
Graduation rate: 67.3%
Top programs: Visual and performing arts, Computer science, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Boston, MA with published program strength in Visual and performing arts and Computer science.
Waltham, MA · Private
Acceptance rate: 45.1%
Undergrad enrollment: 4,474
Tuition: $61,000/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 86.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Computer science, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Waltham, MA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Computer science.
| Factor | Berklee College of Music | Bentley University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 43.5% | 45.1% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| 1280–1430 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | Not reported | 28–31 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,468 | 4,474 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $52,040/year | $61,000/year |
| Average net price after aid | $49,465 | $37,930 |
| Graduation rate | 67.3% | 86.8% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $33,647 | $120,959 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Boston, MA | Waltham, MA |
| Largest program areas | Visual and performing arts, Computer science, Health professions | Business and marketing, Computer science, Social sciences |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (43.5% vs 45.1%). Bentley University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($37,930 vs $49,465). Bentley University reports the higher graduation rate (86.8% vs 67.3%). Berklee College of Music is the larger undergraduate campus (7,468 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Berklee College of Music and Bentley University
Berklee College of Music has an acceptance rate of 43.5%; Bentley University is around 45.1%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Berklee College of Music tuition is $52,040/year. Bentley University is $61,000/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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