Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026  ·  Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard Nov 2025
University of Massachusetts-Lowell — Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements
Public Accredited · New England Commission on Higher Education Lowell, Massachusetts 85.2% Acceptance Rate

University of Massachusetts-Lowell Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Admission Requirements

📍 Lowell, Massachusetts 1854 🏛️ Main Campus 🌐 www.uml.edu/

University of Massachusetts-Lowell — Admission Snapshot 2026

A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application

85.2%Acceptance Rate
3.67Avg GPA
1253Avg SAT
28Avg ACT
$29,521Annual Cost
$64,874Grad Salary
27.4%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
85.2%
Avg GPA
3.67
Avg SAT
1253
Avg ACT
28
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
New England Commission on Higher Education
SAT Middle 50%
1180–1350
ACT Middle 50%
26–30
Avg Net Price
$18,627
Need-Based Aid
27.4% receive Pell

University of Massachusetts-Lowell Acceptance Rate

University of Massachusetts-Lowell maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 85.2%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.

Admissions Guidelines

  • Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
  • Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.

Selectivity at a Glance

Inclusive
University of Massachusetts-Lowell Selectivity Meter
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 85.2% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)

Recommended Academic Profile

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.67 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.47 – 3.66
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.22
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support

Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.

University of Massachusetts-Lowell GPA Requirement

The average GPA of the admitted students at University of Massachusetts-Lowell is 3.67. University of Massachusetts-Lowell is highly selective.

Mostly A's with a few B's will keep you competitive. Taking AP/IB courses related to your field will improve your chances.

Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.87-4.07 for this same academic profile.

If your GPA is between 3.37 and 3.67, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.

University of Massachusetts-Lowell GPA & Admission Outlook

Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.

Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.

Admissions at University of Massachusetts-Lowell utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.67, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.67 – 4.00
Target/Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.47 – 3.66
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.27 – 3.46
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.26
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors

Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics

  • The Rigor Metric: At University of Massachusetts-Lowell, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
  • The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.

Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.

Check Your Admission Chances at University of Massachusetts-Lowell

Admission Chance Predictor

Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Massachusetts-Lowell's verified institutional data

--%
Calculating Profile...

Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.

Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00

✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.

Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.

University of Massachusetts-Lowell Test Requirements

In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.

Can I Get Into University of Massachusetts-Lowell Without SAT or ACT?

University of Massachusetts-Lowell considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.

University of Massachusetts-Lowell Average SAT Score: 1253

The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of Massachusetts-Lowell is 1253 on the 1600 SAT scale.

SAT Competitiveness

University of Massachusetts-Lowell SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1253 — Slightly Competitive

This score makes it slightly Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do well to score 1253 on the SAT.

SAT Math
635
SAT Reading
630
Composite
1253
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1350 SAT or 30 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of Massachusetts-Lowell allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.

If your score is below 1180, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at University of Massachusetts-Lowell. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.

SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections

SAT score percentiles for University of Massachusetts-Lowell
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
SAT Math635590680
SAT Reading630590670
SAT Composite125311801350

It means that if you have scored less than 1180 then you are below most of the admitted students at University of Massachusetts-Lowell and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1350 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.

View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1250

Can I get into University of Massachusetts-Lowell with a 1350 SAT?

With a 1350 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of Massachusetts-Lowell are good but the admission staff at University of Massachusetts-Lowell tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.

University of Massachusetts-Lowell ACT Requirements

The average ACT Score at University of Massachusetts-Lowell is 28.

ACT Competitiveness

University of Massachusetts-Lowell ACT Competitiveness
ACT 28 — Competitive

This score makes University of Massachusetts-Lowell Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 28 on the ACT.

ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections

ACT score percentiles for University of Massachusetts-Lowell
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
ACT Math282530
ACT English272430
ACT Composite282630

Can I get into University of Massachusetts-Lowell with a 30 ACT?

A 30 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at University of Massachusetts-Lowell — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at University of Massachusetts-Lowell use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.

Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.

One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that University of Massachusetts-Lowell — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether University of Massachusetts-Lowell uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.

Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 30 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.

View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 28

Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for University of Massachusetts-Lowell

Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation

University of Massachusetts-Lowell is accessible to students who show core competency. The focus should be on proving readiness for college-level work and securing financial aid.

Consistency over Perfection

Prove you can handle a college curriculum by maintaining a steady or upward GPA trend. One or two lower grades won't be a dealbreaker if you've improved since.

Placement Validation

Use the SAT or ACT to exempt yourself from non-credit remedial courses. A solid score here saves you time and tuition money once you enroll.

Practical Leadership

Highlight work experience, family responsibilities, or community service. These schools value 'grit' and real-world maturity.

FAFSA & Deadlines

At schools with higher acceptance rates, the 'win' is financial. Submit your FAFSA and local scholarship apps as early as possible to maximize your aid package.

Next Step: Review the specific 'Pre-Professional' tracks at University of Massachusetts-Lowell to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.

University of Massachusetts-Lowell Profile

Full Name
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
City
Lowell
State
Massachusetts
ZIP Code
1854
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)

Is a University of Massachusetts-Lowell Degree Worth It?

Getting into University of Massachusetts-Lowell can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. University of Massachusetts-Lowell offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.

Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at University of Massachusetts-Lowell is $76,500 and the graduate unemployment rate is 2.78%.

How much does a degree from University of Massachusetts-Lowell Cost?

The average annual cost of the degree at University of Massachusetts-Lowell is $29,521. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of Massachusetts-Lowell is $18,627.

27.4% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 53.5 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to University of Massachusetts-Lowell and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.

At University of Massachusetts-Lowell, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist University of Massachusetts-Lowell as your choice in the form.

How much does a University of Massachusetts-Lowell Graduate earn?

The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $64,874. An average University of Massachusetts-Lowell graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).

The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.

$29,521Annual Cost
$18,627Net Price
27.4%Pell Grant
53.5%Federal Loan
$64,874Grad Salary (10yr)

Compare Similar Colleges

Less Competitive

Less Competitive Schools

These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of Massachusetts-Lowell. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Mobile Mobile, AL 1220 24
Samford University Birmingham, AL 1203 26
John Brown University Siloam Springs, AR 1222 26
Ouachita Baptist University Arkadelphia, AR 1212 25
California Lutheran University Thousand Oaks, CA 1224 26
University of Redlands Redlands, CA 1231 28
University of Hartford West Hartford, CT 1207 29
Quinnipiac University Hamden, CT 1212 27
Howard University Washington, DC 1205 25
Florida Institute of Technology Melbourne, FL 1213 26
Same Competitive

Equally Competitive Schools

These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Massachusetts-Lowell. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL 1251 26
University of Arizona Tucson, AZ 1261 26
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott Prescott, AZ 1256 27
Biola University La Mirada, CA 1258 27
Eckerd College Saint Petersburg, FL 1256 27
More Competitive

More Competitive Schools

These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of Massachusetts-Lowell. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Alabama in Huntsville Huntsville, AL 1321 28
The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL 1287 28
Auburn University Auburn, AL 1318 28
University of the Pacific Stockton, CA 1303 27
University of San Francisco San Francisco, CA 1313 29

Degree Programs at University of Massachusetts-Lowell

Bachelor Degree Programs

Full list of all degree programs offered by University of Massachusetts-Lowell →

Frequently Asked Questions About University of Massachusetts-Lowell Admissions

Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $64,874 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.

The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $29,521 per year, making it more affordable for many students.

27.4% of students receive a Pell Grant at this institution. Your chances of need-based aid are moderate and depend primarily on your household income. Filing FAFSA early significantly improves your chances of receiving the maximum available grant amount.

The acceptance rate of University of Massachusetts-Lowell is 85.2% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.

The average GPA of admitted students is 3.67. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.

While there is no single cutoff that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.37, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.37, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.

If your GPA is 3.27 or less, it may make admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.

While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.67, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.

Admission to University of Massachusetts-Lowell is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1253 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1180–1350.

Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.

To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.

Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026

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Sohaib Ahmad Khan

Sohaib Ahmad Khan is a leading career counselor and admission guidance expert who has guided over 50,000 students worldwide. He is the author of four books and developer of widely used career counseling and aptitude assessment systems. .

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