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University of Massachusetts-Amherst and Merrimack College are both public institutions — University of Massachusetts-Amherst in Amherst, MA and Merrimack College in North Andover, 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.
Amherst, MA · Public
Acceptance rate: 59.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 23,671
Tuition: $40,449/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 83.3%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Amherst, MA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
North Andover, MA · Private
Acceptance rate: 70.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,916
Tuition: $53,962/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 70.0%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Security and law enforcement
Best for: Students who want a private campus in North Andover, MA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Merrimack College |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 59.7% | 70.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1310–1500 |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 30–33 | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 23,671 | 3,916 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $40,449/year | $53,962/year |
| Average net price after aid | $22,383 | $37,927 |
| Graduation rate | 83.3% | 70.0% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $71,631 | $75,584 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 17.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Amherst, MA | North Andover, MA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Social sciences | Business and marketing, Health professions, Security and law enforcement |
University of Massachusetts-Amherst is more selective (59.7% vs 70.0% acceptance rate). University of Massachusetts-Amherst has a lower average net price after grant aid ($22,383 vs $37,927). University of Massachusetts-Amherst reports the higher graduation rate (83.3% vs 70.0%). University of Massachusetts-Amherst is the larger undergraduate campus (23,671 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 University of Massachusetts-Amherst and Merrimack College
University of Massachusetts-Amherst has an acceptance rate of 59.7%; Merrimack College is around 70.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
University of Massachusetts-Amherst tuition is $40,449/year. Merrimack College is $53,962/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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