Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts vs Salem State University

North Adams, MA · Salem, MA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Massachusetts College of Liberal ArtsSalem State University
Acceptance Rate92.4%95.6%
In-State Tuition$11,884$11,978
Out-of-State Tuition$20,559$18,961
Average Net Price$17,705$19,324
Graduation Rate49.0%55.0%

GradFax Analysis

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts accepts 92.4% of applicants. Salem State University accepts 95.6%. Tuition is close: $11,884 at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, $11,978 at Salem State University. Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts graduates 49% of students in 6 years. Salem State University graduates 55%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts profileSalem State University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts or Salem State University?

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. It accepts 92.4% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts or Salem State University more affordable?

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, on average. After aid, students pay $17,705/year versus $19,324/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Salem State University: 55% of students finish in 6 years. Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts is at 49%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts vs Salem State University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax