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Framingham State University

Framingham, MA | Public | University

Framingham State University has an acceptance rate of 83.6%, annual tuition of $11,920, average net price of $16,114, and a national rank of #1738 (Grade C), with a 47.8% six-year graduation rate, about 2,566 undergraduates, and median earnings of $46,611 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

Framingham State University is a public university in Framingham, MA. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Computer and Information Sciences.

Day to day, students benefit from a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, and 71.0% first-year retention. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at -27.7%, roughly 113.0 points below typical outcomes. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.

C
Ranking
#1738 of 6,101
How We Rank Schools Public school option
At a Glance
Ranking
#1738 of 6,101 (Top 28.5%)
Tuition
$11,920
Net Price
$16,114
4-Year Tuition
$47,680
Acceptance Rate
83.6%
Transfer Rate
28.6%
Student Population
2,566
Student-Faculty
12:1
Graduation Rate
47.8%
Retention Rate
71.0%
6-Yr Earnings
$46,611
ROI
-27.7%

Who is Framingham State University Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Students who thrive with close mentoring
First-gen or Pell-eligible support
Students valuing supportive learning environments

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#1738 of 6,101
Top 28.5% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
10.6 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
0.53 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
B-
#1,262 of 6,101
Affordability
B
#648 of 6,101
Support
B
#1,007 of 6,101
Career Outcomes
D-
#1,919 of 6,101

Framingham State University graduates 47.8% of students within six years and keeps 71.0% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$11,934-$21,962 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Somewhat likely
47.8% finish within six years. 35.8% complete in four years.
What are job outcomes?
Challenging
7.4% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings six years after entry are $46,611. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use Framingham State University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.

Calculate Your Net Price →

Total Degree Cost Summary

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$109,652
$27,413 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$72,513
$16,114 × 4.5 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.5 years | 4-Year Rate: 35.8% | 6-Year Rate: 47.8%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 35.8% and six-year completion is 47.8%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$27,413
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$16,114
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

Cost of Undergraduate Attendance

Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.

View cost of attendance line items
Costs to Consider Price
Tuition and Fees $11,920
Books and Supplies $1,200
On-Campus Room and Board $15,310
On-Campus Other Expenses $3,378
Total On-Campus Cost $27,413

Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.

Students Receiving Aid

Pell Grant
36.9%
Federal Loan
0.0%

Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.

EDsmart Insight: About 36.9% of Framingham State University students receive Pell Grants — in line with the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.

$0 - $30,000
$11,934
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$12,233
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$13,879
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$18,551
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$21,962
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $11,934 to $21,962 depending on family income. Use Framingham State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$53,703
$30K-$48K families
~$55,048
$48K-$75K families
~$62,456
$75K-$110K families
~$83,480
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $18,551/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $21,962/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
-27.7%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • 6-Year Median Earnings $46,611
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $46,611
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
  • Average Student Debt $17,224
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 70.6%
  • Employment Rate 7.4%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for Framingham State University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.

Graduates earn a median of $46,611 six years after enrollment — roughly 7% above the national median.
Payback Period
1.56 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

Framingham State University vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Framingham State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Framingham State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: While Framingham State University graduates earn $46,611 median, the -27.7% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
83.6%
Lightly Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 570-650
  • SAT Math 530-630
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite Not reported
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 2,566
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Retention Rate 71.0%
  • Graduation Rate 47.8%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 12:1

How to Get Into Framingham State University

1. Meet Academic Requirements: Framingham State University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.

2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.

3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 83.6%, Framingham State University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.

4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.

Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.

EDsmart Insight: With a 83.6% acceptance rate, Framingham State University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1100 and 1280 on the SAT.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Framingham State University undergraduates. Psychology, General, Business/Commerce, General, and Criminology draw the most students.

  • Psychology, General 13.7%
  • Business/Commerce, General 8.6%
  • Criminology 6.5%
  • Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services 5.4%
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum 5.2%
  • Biology, General 5.2%
See more majors
  • English Language and Literature, General 5.1%
  • Communications Technologies/Technicians and Suppor 4.5%

Highest Earning Programs

Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)

  • 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $95,426
  • 2. Computer and Information Sciences, General $63,538
  • 3. Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services $62,081
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. Business/Commerce, General $60,766
  • 5. Criminology $60,589
  • 6. Psychology, General $58,471
  • 7. Sociology $56,071
  • 8. Apparel and Textiles $55,499
  • 9. Management Information Systems and Services $54,918
  • 10. Geography and Cartography $54,440

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Bioethics/Medical Ethics (Master's Degree) $108,704
  • 2. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $73,482
  • 3. Public Administration (Master's Degree) $59,568
Show additional graduate majors
  • 4. Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language (Master's Degree) $57,240
  • 5. Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services (Master's Degree) $56,102
  • 6. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degree) $55,930

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $95,426—75% more than Geography and Cartography ($54,440). Graduate: Bioethics/Medical Ethics programs lead with $108,704 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Framingham State University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard

Most Popular Online Degrees

  • Education, Other (Master's Degree, 190 graduates)
  • Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 118 graduates)
  • Business/Commerce, General (Bachelor's Degree, 74 graduates)
  • Criminology (Bachelor's Degree, 56 graduates)
  • Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language (Master's Degree, 52 graduates)

What This School Offers Online, at a Glance

College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.

Online Bachelor's Degrees (35 programs)â–¼
  • Psychology, General
  • Business/Commerce, General
  • Criminology
  • Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
  • Biology, General
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Communications Technologies/Technicians and Support Services, Other
  • Sociology
  • Marketing
  • Apparel and Textiles
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Finance and Financial Management Services
  • Political Science and Government
  • History
  • Management Information Systems and Services
  • Natural Resources Conservation and Research
  • Geography and Cartography
  • Food Science and Technology
  • Economics
  • Mathematics
  • Chemistry
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
  • Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other
  • International Business
  • Design and Applied Arts
  • American Sign Language
  • International/Global Studies
  • Hospitality Administration/Management
Online Master's Degrees (16 programs)â–¼
  • Education, Other
  • Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
  • Bioethics/Medical Ethics
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Public Administration
  • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • Health and Medical Administrative Services
  • Biotechnology
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (9 programs)â–¼
  • Education, Other
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
  • Public Administration
  • Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences Business Services
  • Business/Commerce, General
  • Biotechnology
  • Bioethics/Medical Ethics
  • Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (2 programs)â–¼
  • Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
  • Accounting and Related Services

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 2,566
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Male Students 45.8%
  • Female Students 54.2%
  • Caucasian 49.9%
  • Asian 3.8%
  • Hispanic 22.9%
  • Black 17.3%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 36.9%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Framingham State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of Framingham State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Framingham State University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
40.3%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
52.2%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
11.9 pts
equity gap to monitor

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Framingham State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: Framingham State University has a diverse student body, with 49.9% identifying as White.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Framingham State University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
40.3%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
52.2%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
11.9 pts
equity gap to monitor

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Framingham State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

Framingham State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1738 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.

At $16,114 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $46,611 median earnings. The 47.8% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 71.0% retention suggests adequate student support.

University Value: Framingham State University's Strengths

Ranked #1738 with a C grade, Framingham State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.

Primary Strengths: Universitys like Framingham State University excel at providing affordable education ($16,114 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.

Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.

Honest Assessment: Framingham State University's 71.0% retention and 47.8% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($46,611 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.

Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Framingham State University and $16,114 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.

Key Takeaways

  • 47.8% six-year graduation rate sits 14.7 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 71.0% first-year retention is 5.8 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
  • -27.7% return on investment is 113.0 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $46,611 run about 7% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
  • Average net price of $16,114 is roughly $1,283 lower than the national median of $17,397.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 12:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 71.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 7.4% employment rate within three years sits 60.8 points below national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • Pell participation at 36.9% trails the national share by 2.2 points, so equity work remains important.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis

Framingham State University, a public university in Framingham, MA, secures a C grade in our latest review. It holds a #1738 national ranking Completion earns B-, Support B, Career Outcomes D-, and Affordability B.

Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.

71.0% of learners come back after year one while 47.8% complete the degree within six years. The reported ROI is -27.7%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.

Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.

EDsmart Financial Snapshot

Families pay about $16,114 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $27,413.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $11,299 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $17,224 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 36.9% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.

Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.

EDsmart Career Snapshot

Median earnings come in near $46,611 six years after enrollment. That sits about 7% above the national median.

Employment outcomes report about 7.4% of alumni working within three years.

Plan around an ROI of about -27.7% according to the Scorecard data.

Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.

EDsmart Admissions Snapshot

83.6% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.

The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.

Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Framingham State University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.

Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.

EDsmart Verdict
0.53 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

Run the Net Price Calculator
Get your personalized cost estimate
Compare with similar schools
See how Framingham State University stacks up to alternatives
Check your major's earnings
See ROI for your specific field of study
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Visit Framingham State University Website →

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Western New England University
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C #1723 of 6,101

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Framingham State University's acceptance rate?

Framingham State University's acceptance rate is 83.6%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.

How much does Framingham State University cost?

At Framingham State University, listed tuition and fees are $11,920 per year, and the average net price after aid is $16,114. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is Framingham State University's ranking?

Framingham State University ranks #1738 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of C, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is Framingham State University's graduation rate?

At Framingham State University, the six-year graduation rate is 47.8%, and first-year retention is 71.0%.

What are Framingham State University's job outcomes?

Graduates of Framingham State University report median earnings of $46,611 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is Framingham State University's student population?

Framingham State University enrolls about 2,566 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationNew England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Endowment$59.6M
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate28.6%

Data Source & Methodology â–¼