Private nonprofit Institution

Lesley University — Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Annual Tuition $32,780

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 94.4%

Open Admission

Enrollment 1,252

Active Students

Avg. Salary $51,173

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Cambridge, Massachusetts

Institution type Private nonprofit

Accreditation New England Commission on Higher Education

Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"Lesley University stands as a pillar of higher education in Cambridge, providing a robust academic foundation for 1,252 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus

Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does Lesley University offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Lesley University. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Visual & Performing Arts

35.2%

Enrollment Share

Psychology

15%

Enrollment Share

Humanities

13.5%

Enrollment Share

Education

10.1%

Enrollment Share

Health Professions

5.2%

Enrollment Share

English

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Visual & Performing Arts College

The Visual & Performing Arts program at Lesley University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Psychology College

Our Psychology program offers deep insights into human behavior...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Humanities College

Empowering students with critical thinking and cultural literacy...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Education College

We develop educators who are passionate about transforming classrooms...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Health Professions College

Ranked as a top destination for healthcare education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best English College

The English program at Lesley University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at Lesley University?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 94.4%

Difficulty Low

Lesley University maintains an acceptance rate of 94.4%, reflecting its status as a open admission institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are neither required nor recommended.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 27.4%

Women Enrollment 72.6%

Open Pathway Confirmed

Lesley University follows an open admission policy. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are typically not part of the mandatory evaluation process, ensuring broader access to academic programs.

Start Your Journey Today

Unlock access to Lesley University's high-demand programs without the stress of standardized testing benchmarks.

Official Admission Portal

How much does Lesley University cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $32,780

Out-of-State Tuition $32,780

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 28.3%

Median Student Debt $21,000

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $32,780, graduates see a median starting salary of $51,173, making it one of the most affordable pathways in Massachusetts.

What salary can Lesley University graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $51,173

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 61.7%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $31,805

Median Salary (6yr) $40,150

Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average

Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at Lesley University in Cambridge?

1,252 Students

Gender Comparison

27.4% Men

72.6% Women

Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

76.9%

Retention First-year

Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian

0.5%

Asian

5.4%

Black

8.4%

White

53%

Unknown

6.3%

Hispanic

18.6%

Two or More Races

4.4%

International

3.4%

Campus Demographics

🎂

Avg. Age at Entry 23

🎓

First-Generation 28.7%

💰

Receive Pell Grant 50.7%

💍

Married Students 6.7%

🔄

Retention (Part-time) 60%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income	$73,324
Average Family Income	$75,544
Median Family Income	$51,995

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

37%

63%

Women Men

Premium Campus Location

Explore the Cambridge Campus Environment

Located at 29 Everett St, Lesley University offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of Massachusetts. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan

Access High Connectivity

Get Directions Open in Google Maps

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How does Lesley University compare?

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Common Questions about Lesley University

Is Lesley University a good college in Cambridge, Massachusetts?

Lesley University is a recognized institution in Cambridge with an enrollment of 1,252 students. It is accredited by New England Commission on Higher Education and offers a robust ROI for students in Massachusetts based on Department of Education data.

Is Lesley University worth attending in 2026?

Yes, Lesley University offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $51,173. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.

How much does Lesley University cost for Massachusetts residents in 2026?

For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at Lesley University is approximately $32,780. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $32,780. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.

What is the real cost of Lesley University after financial aid and FAFSA?

The real cost of attending Lesley University for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 50.7% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.

Is Lesley University good for Visual & Performing Arts and Psychology programs?

Lesley University is highly regarded for its Visual & Performing Arts and Psychology programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.

What career can I get after attending Lesley University?

Graduates of Lesley University often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Visual & Performing Arts. With a median salary of $51,173, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.

What are the admission requirements for Lesley University?

Lesley University operates with a Open Admission policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.

Does Lesley University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

No, Lesley University follows a open admission policy for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.

What salary can Lesley University graduates expect after 10 years?

Graduates of Lesley University earn a median salary of $51,173 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.

Is Lesley University a good investment compared to other MA colleges?

Lesley University stands out as a high-value investment in Massachusetts. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.

Where is Lesley University located and what is the campus like?

Lesley University is located at 29 Everett St in Cambridge, MA. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 1,252 learners.

Who typically attends Lesley University in Cambridge, MA?

The student body at Lesley University is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 28.7% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.

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2026 Rankings: Massachusetts

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare Lesley University with other leading institutions in Massachusetts across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

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