What is the University of Massachusetts Acceptance Rate?
The University of Massachusetts (UMass) is a renowned public university in the US. It consists of multiple campuses, with Amherst being the flagship. Known for its excellent academic programmes, diverse student body, and rich campus life, UMass attracts thousands of applications annually.
However, the competitive nature of its acceptance rates requires prospective students to understand their chances of admission and prepare thoroughly.
In this guide, we’ll break down UMass acceptance rates, trends, and key factors that can affect your application’s success.
The Recent History of University of Massachusetts Acceptance Rates
The University of Massachusetts, particularly the Amherst campus, has seen fluctuating acceptance rates over the years.
UMass Amherst Acceptance Rate
| Class of | Applications | Admitted Students | Acceptance Rate | Yield Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2029 | 56,428 | 33,907 | 60.1% | 18.7% |
| 2028 | 53,618 | 32,100 | 59.9% | 19.8% |
| 2027 | 53,519 | 30,778 | 57.5% | 20.6% |
| 2026 | 48,393 | 30,873 | 63.8% | 21.4% |
| 2025 | 45,638 | 30,028 | 65.8% | 20.0% |
UMass Amherst consistently maintains an acceptance rate of around 59-60%, making it a moderately selective institution. Please note, though, that this acceptance rate is likely to be significantly lower for out-of-state or international applicants. Factors such as the rising number of applications and the university’s reputation for academic strength play a role in shaping these figures.
This trend highlights the university’s selectivity while emphasizing the growing applicant pool. The low yield rate (around 20%) means that only one in five students offered a place by UMass accept it, indicating that UMass is still not a first-choice school for many applicants.
The Latest UMass Amherst Admission Cycle
In the 2025 admission cycle, UMass Amherst received over 56,000 applications, admitting around 34,000 students. This represents an increase in application numbers compared to previous years, but a steady acceptance rate, aligning with the university’s strategic plan to enhance its academic standards and diversity.
Key changes in the recent cycle include:
- Increased application volume: UMass Amherst saw a large rise in applications compared to previous years.
- Stronger applicant profiles: The incoming class reported higher average GPAs and standardised test scores.
Comparing Various University of Massachusetts Acceptance Rates
Early Action
UMass Amherst offers early action (EA), which provides applicants with an earlier decision. The EA acceptance rate is typically higher than regular decision, standing at approximately 64% for the class of 2029. Applying early can demonstrate commitment and improve chances for well-prepared students.
Regular Decision
The regular decision (RD) acceptance rate for UMass Amherst remains consistent with the overall rate, approximately 54.3%. This option allows applicants more time to strengthen their profiles.
Factors that Affect the University of Massachusetts Acceptance Rate
Quality and Size of the Applicant Pool
As the university’s popularity grows, the applicant pool becomes increasingly competitive. High academic achievers and students with exceptional extracurricular activities often stand out in this process.
Holistic Admissions Process
UMass Amherst evaluates applications holistically, considering factors such as personal essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular involvement. This approach ensures a well-rounded and diverse student body.
How does UMass Compare with Other Universities?
While UMass is quite selective, its acceptance rate is higher than many Ivy League schools. For example, Harvard University’s acceptance rate for the class of 2029 was 3.6%. This is partly influenced by its status as a public school which favours applications from in-state applicants. The acceptance rate for out-of-state or international students is likely to be much lower.
How can Dukes Plus Help your UMass Application succeed?
At Dukes, we specialise in supporting students through their university application journeys. Our personalised services include:
- Strategic guidance to strengthen your application.
- College essay tutoring
- SAT tutoring and ACT tutoring
- Expert insights to align your profile with UMass Amherst’s admissions values.
To learn more about how Dukes Plus can assist with your UMass Amherst application, visit our private US admissions consulting page.
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